Exhibit 10.16
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
Form
For
the quarterly period ended
For the transition period from __________ to __________
Commission
file number:
| (State or Other Jurisdiction of | (IRS Employer | |
| Incorporation or Organization) | Identification Number) |
| (Address of Principal Executive Offices) | (Zip Code) |
(Registrant’s Telephone Number, Including Area Code)
N/A
(Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed since last report)
Securities registered under Section 12(b) of the Act: None
Indicate
by check mark whether the issuer (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act
of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or has for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2)
has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.
Indicate
by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule
405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant
was required to submit such files).
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company,” and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
| Large accelerated filer ☐ | Accelerated filer ☐ |
| Smaller
reporting company | |
| Emerging
growth company |
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ☐
Indicate
by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes ☐
The number of shares outstanding of the registrant’s $0.0001 par value common stock as of November 5, 2021, was shares.
Amergent Hospitality Group Inc. and Subsidiaries
TABLE OF CONTENTS
| 2 |
CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (the “Report”) contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements are identified by terms and phrases such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “predict,” “project,” “should,” and “will” and similar expressions and include references to assumptions and relate to our future prospects, developments and business strategies. There are a number of important factors that could cause the actual results to differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statement made by us. These factors include, but are not limited to:
| ● | the accuracy of our estimates regarding expenses, capital requirements and need for additional financing; | |
●
|
our ability to operate our business, integrate acquired businesses and generate profits. We have not been profitable to date on a continuous basis; | |
| ● | contingent liabilities that may arise from acquired businesses; | |
| ● | decline in global financial markets and economic downturn resulting from the coronavirus COVID-19 global pandemic, | |
| ● | business interruptions resulting from the coronavirus COVID-19 global pandemic; | |
| ● | our ability to remediate weaknesses we identified in our disclosure controls and procedures and our internal control over financial reporting in a timely enough manner to eliminate the risks posed by such material weaknesses in future periods; | |
| ● | general risk factors affecting the restaurant industry, including current economic climate, costs of labor and food prices; | |
| ● | intensive competition in our industry and competition with national, regional chains and independent restaurant operators; | |
| ● | our ability, and our dependence on the ability of our franchisees, to execute on business plans effectively; | |
| ● | actions of our franchise partners or operating partners which could harm our business; | |
| ● | failure to protect our intellectual property rights, including the brand image of our restaurants; | |
| ● | changes in customer preferences and perceptions; | |
| ● | increases in costs, including food, rent, labor and energy prices; | |
| ● | constraints could affect our ability to maintain competitive cost structure, including, but not limited to labor constraints; | |
| ● | work stoppages at our restaurants or supplier facilities or other interruptions of production; | |
| ● | the risks associated with leasing space subject to long-term non-cancelable leases, including but not limited to defaults and closures under restaurant leases as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic; | |
| ● | we may not attain our target development goals and aggressive development could cannibalize existing sales; | |
| ● | negative publicity about the ingredients we use, or the potential occurrence of food-borne illnesses or other problems at our restaurants; | |
| ● | breaches of security of confidential consumer information related to our electronic processing of credit and debit card transactions; | |
| ● | whether or not we will be entitled to forgiveness of our Paycheck Protection Program loans; | |
| ● | we may be unable to reach agreements with various taxing authorities on payment plans to pay off back taxes; and | |
| ● | our debt financing agreements expose us to interest rate risks, contain obligations that may limit the flexibility of our operations, and may limit our ability to raise additional capital; and | |
| ● | we may have to repay the $10 million of grant proceeds received from the Restaurant Revitalization Fund. |
We undertake no obligation to update or revise the forward-looking statements included in this Report, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, after the date of this Report. Our actual results, performance or achievements could differ materially from the results expressed in, or implied by, these forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause or contribute to such differences are discussed in the section entitled “Risk Factors” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” included herein.
Unless otherwise noted, references in this Report to the “Registrant,” “Company,” “Amergent,” “Spin-Off Entity,” “we,” “our” or “us” means Amergent Hospitality Group Inc., a Delaware corporation and our subsidiaries.
| 3 |
PART I
ITEM 1: FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Amergent Hospitality Group, Inc and Subsidiaries
Table of Contents
| 4 |
Amergent Hospitality Group, Inc and Subsidiaries
Condensed Consolidated and Combined Balance Sheets
| September 30, 2021 | December 31, 2020 | |||||||
| (Unaudited) | ||||||||
| ASSETS | ||||||||
| Current assets: | ||||||||
| Cash | $ | $ | ||||||
| Restricted cash | ||||||||
| Investments | ||||||||
| Accounts and other receivables | ||||||||
| Inventories | ||||||||
| Prepaid expenses and other current assets | ||||||||
| Current assets held for sale | ||||||||
| TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS | ||||||||
| Property and equipment, net | ||||||||
| Operating lease asset | ||||||||
| Intangible assets, net | ||||||||
| Goodwill | ||||||||
| Investments | ||||||||
| Deposits and other assets | ||||||||
| Noncurrent assets held for sale | ||||||||
| TOTAL ASSETS | $ | $ | ||||||
| LIABILITIES, REDEEMABLE SHARES, AND STOCKHOLDERS’ DEFICIT | ||||||||
| Current liabilities: | ||||||||
| Accounts payable and accrued expenses | $ | $ | ||||||
| Current maturities of long-term debt, convertible debt and notes payable | ||||||||
| Current operating lease liabilities | ||||||||
| Derivative liabilities | ||||||||
| Deferred grant income | ||||||||
| Current liabilities held for sale | ||||||||
| TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES | ||||||||
| Long-term operating lease liabilities | ||||||||
| Contract liabilities | ||||||||
| Deferred tax liabilities | ||||||||
| Long-term debt, convertible debt and notes payable, net of current maturities | ||||||||
| Noncurrent liabilities held for sale | ||||||||
| TOTAL LIABILITIES | ||||||||
| Commitments and contingencies (see Note 11) | ||||||||
| Convertible Preferred Stock: Series 2: $ stated value; authorized shares; and issued and outstanding at September 30, 2021 and December 31, 2020, respectively | ||||||||
| Stockholders’ Deficit: | ||||||||
| Common stock: $ par value; authorized shares; and shares issued and outstanding at September 30, 2021 and December 31, 2020, respectively | ||||||||
| Additional paid-in-capital | ||||||||
| Accumulated deficit | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||
| Accumulated other comprehensive loss | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||
| Total Amergent Hospitality Group, Inc., Stockholders’ Deficit | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||
| Non-controlling interests | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||
| TOTAL STOCKHOLDERS’ DEFICIT | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||
| TOTAL LIABILITIES, REDEEMABLE SHARES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ DEFICIT | $ | $ | ||||||
See accompanying notes to the condensed consolidated and combined financial statements
| 5 |
Amergent Hospitality Group, Inc and Subsidiaries
Condensed Consolidated and Combined Statements of Operations (Unaudited)
| Three Months Ended | Nine Months Ended | |||||||||||||||
| September 30, 2021 | September 30, 2020 | September 30, 2021 | September 30, 2020 | |||||||||||||
| (Restated) | (Restated) | |||||||||||||||
| Revenue: | ||||||||||||||||
| Restaurant sales, net | $ | $ | $ | $ | ||||||||||||
| Gaming income, net | ||||||||||||||||
| Franchise income | ||||||||||||||||
| Total revenue | ||||||||||||||||
| Expenses: | ||||||||||||||||
| Restaurant cost of sales | ||||||||||||||||
| Restaurant operating expenses | ||||||||||||||||
| Restaurant pre-opening and closing expenses | ||||||||||||||||
| General and administrative expenses | ||||||||||||||||
| Asset impairment charge | ||||||||||||||||
| Depreciation and amortization | ||||||||||||||||
| Employee retention credit/other grant income | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||||||
| Total expenses | ||||||||||||||||
| Operating income (loss) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||||
| Other income (expense): | ||||||||||||||||
| Interest expense | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||
| Change in fair value of derivative liabilities | ( | ) | ||||||||||||||
| Change in the fair value of investment | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||
| Debt extinguishment expense | ( | ) | ||||||||||||||
| Other income (expense) | ( | ) | ||||||||||||||
| Gain on extinguished lease liabilities | ||||||||||||||||
| Total other income (expense) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||
| Net loss before income taxes | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||
| Income tax expense | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||
| Consolidated net loss | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||
| Less: Net loss (income) attributable to non-controlling interests | ( | ) | ||||||||||||||
| Net loss attributable to Amergent Hospitality Group Inc. | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||
| Dividends on redeemable preferred stock | ( | ) | ||||||||||||||
| Net loss attributable to common shareholders of Amergent Hospitality Group Inc. | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | ||||
| Net loss attributable to Amergent Hospitality Group, Inc. per common share, basic: | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | ||||
| Net loss attributable to Amergent Hospitality Group, Inc. per common share, diluted: | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | ||||
| Weighted average shares outstanding, basic | ||||||||||||||||
| Weighted average shares outstanding, diluted | ||||||||||||||||
See accompanying notes to the condensed consolidated and combined financial statements
| 6 |
Amergent Hospitality Group, Inc and Subsidiaries
Condensed Consolidated and Combined Statements of Comprehensive Loss (Unaudited)
| Three Months Ended | Nine Months Ended | |||||||||||||||
| September 30, 2021 | September 30, 2020 | September 30, 2021 | September 30, 2020 | |||||||||||||
| (Restated) | (Restated) | |||||||||||||||
| Net loss attributable to Amergent Hospitality Group | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | ||||
| Foreign currency translation gain/(loss) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||||
| Comprehensive loss | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | ||||
See accompanying notes to the condensed consolidated and combined financial statements
| 7 |
Amergent Hospitality Group, Inc and Subsidiaries
Condensed Consolidated and Combined Statements of Stockholders’ Deficit
Three and Nine Months Ended September 30, 2021 (Unaudited)
(Temporary equity) Preferred Series 2 | Common Stock | Additional Paid-in | Accumulated | Accumulated Other Comprehensive | Non- Controlling | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Shares | Amount | Shares | Amount | Capital | Deficit | Income (Loss) | Interest | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Balance, December 31, 2020 | $ | $ | $ | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Conversion of preferred stock into common | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Foreign currency translation | — | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net loss | — | — | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Balance, March 31, 2021 | $ | $ | $ | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Conversion of preferred stock into common | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Foreign currency translation | — | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net income (loss) | — | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Balance, June 30, 2021 | $ | $ | $ | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Issuance of common stock for services | — | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Share-based compensation expense | — | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Foreign currency translation | — | — | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Non-controlling interest distributions | — | — | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net income (loss) | — | — | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Balance, September 30, 2021 | $ | $ | $ | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||
See accompanying notes to the condensed consolidated and combined financial statements
| 8 |
Amergent Hospitality Group, Inc and Subsidiaries
Condensed Consolidated and Combined Statements of Stockholders’ Deficit
Three and Nine Months Ended September 30, 2020 (Unaudited)
(Temporary equity) Preferred Series 2 |
Common Stock | Additional Paid-in | Accumulated | Accumulated Other Comprehensive | Non- Controlling | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Shares | Amount | Shares | Amount | Capital | Deficit | Loss | Interest | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Balance, December 31, 2019 | $ | $ | $ | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | $ | $ | ( | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Common stock and warrants issued for: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Preferred unit dividend | — | ( | ) | ( | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Exercise of warrants | — | ( | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Preferred Shares - Series 2 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Issuance of shares, net of transaction costs of $ | — | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Bifurcation of derivative liability | — | ( |
) | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Beneficial conversion feature | — | ( |
) | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Preferred stock deemed dividend | — | — | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Conversion of Series 2 preferred to common | ( | ) | ( |
) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Foreign currency translation | — | — | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net loss | — | — | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Balance, March 31, 2020 | $ | $ | $ | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | $ | $ | ( | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Reclassification of non-controlling interest | — | — | ( | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Cash contribution of merger consideration, net transaction
costs of $ | — | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Contribution of warrant portion of merger consideration | — | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Foreign currency translation | — | — | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net loss | — | — | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Balance, June 30, 2020 | $ | $ | $ | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Warrants issued for extension of the make-whole provision | — | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Reclassification of warrants and conversion feature | — | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Foreign currency translation | — | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net loss | — | — | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Balance, September 30, 2020 | $ | $ | $ | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
See accompanying notes to the condensed consolidated and combined financial statements
| 9 |
Amergent Hospitality Group, Inc and Subsidiaries
Condensed Consolidated and Combined Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited)
| Nine months ended | ||||||||
| September 30, 2021 | September 30, 2020 | |||||||
| (Restated) | ||||||||
| Net loss | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | ||
| Cash flows from operating activities: | ||||||||
| Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash flows from operations | ||||||||
| Depreciation and amortization | ||||||||
| Amortization of operating lease assets | ||||||||
| Asset impairment charges | ||||||||
| Warrants issued from extension of True-Up Payment | ||||||||
| Gain from extinguished lease liabilities | ( | ) | ||||||
| Loss on change in fair value of investments | ||||||||
| Amortization of debt discount | ||||||||
| Loss on extinguishment of Series 1 Preferred | ||||||||
| Loss on debt extinguishment | ||||||||
| Issuance of common stock for services | ||||||||
| Share-based compensation | ||||||||
| Derivative liabilities revaluation | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||
| Change in assets and liabilities | ||||||||
| Accounts and other receivables | ||||||||
| Prepaid expenses and other assets | ( | ) | ||||||
| Inventories | ( | ) | ||||||
| Accounts payable and accrued expenses | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||
| Deferred grant income | ( | ) | ||||||
| Operating lease liabilities | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||
| Derivative liability | ( | ) | ||||||
| Deferred rent | ( | ) | ||||||
| Deferred revenue | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||
| Net cash flows from operating activities | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||
| Cash flows from investing activities: | ||||||||
| Cash and restricted cash acquired in connection with acquisition | ||||||||
| Purchase of property and equipment | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||
| Proceeds from sale of investments | ||||||||
| Net cash flows provided by (used in) investing activities | ( | ) | ||||||
| Cash flows from financing activities: | ||||||||
| Loan proceeds | ||||||||
| Loan repayments | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||
| Distributions to non-controlling interest | ( | ) | ||||||
| Proceeds from Series 2 Preferred | ||||||||
| Proceeds from warrant exercises | ||||||||
| Redemption of Series 1 Preferred | ( | ) | ||||||
| Merger consideration, net | ||||||||
| Net cash flows provided by financing activities | ||||||||
| Effect of exchange rate of on cash | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||
| Net increase in cash and restricted cash, including cash classified in current assets held for sale | ||||||||
| Less: cash classified in current assets held for sale | ( | ) | ||||||
| Net increase in cash and restricted cash | ||||||||
| Cash and restricted cash, beginning of period | ||||||||
| Cash and restricted cash, end of period | $ | $ | ||||||
| Supplemental cash flow information: | ||||||||
| Cash paid for interest and income taxes | ||||||||
| Interest | $ | $ | ||||||
| Income taxes | $ | $ | ||||||
| Non-cash investing and financing activities | ||||||||
| Conversion of Preferred stock - Series 2 to common stock | $ | $ | ||||||
| Issuance of convertible promissory note as part of acquisition | $ | $ | ||||||
| Initial value of ROU asset and liability recorded for new lease | $ | $ | ||||||
| Preferred stock dividends paid through issuance of common stock | $ | $ | ||||||
| Accrued interest paid through warrant exercise | $ | $ | ||||||
| Bifurcation of derivative liability from Preferred Stock - Series 2 | $ | $ | ||||||
| Warrant portion of merger consideration | $ | $ | ||||||
| Equity classification of Oz Rey warrants and conversion feature | $ | $ | ||||||
See accompanying notes to the condensed consolidated and combined financial statements
| 10 |
Amergent Hospitality Group, Inc and Subsidiaries
Notes to the Condensed Consolidated and Combined Financial Statements
1. NATURE OF BUSINESS
BASIS OF PRESENTATION
Amergent Hospitality Group, Inc. (“Amergent”) was incorporated on February 18, 2020 as a wholly-owned subsidiary of Chanticleer Holdings, Inc. (“Chanticleer”) for the purpose of conducting the business of Chanticleer and its subsidiaries after completion of the Spin-Off of Amergent to the shareholders of Chanticleer (Spin-Off”). The Spin-Off transaction was completed on April 1, 2020 in connection with the merger (the “Merger”) of Chanticleer with Sonnet BioTherapeutics, Inc. (“Sonnet”) on that date. Amergent is in the business of owning, operating and franchising fast casual dining concepts domestically and internationally.
On March 31, 2020, Chanticleer contributed all its assets and liabilities, including the stock interest in all its subsidiaries (other than Amergent), to Amergent. Based on this being a transaction between entities under common control the carryover basis of accounting was used to record the assets and liabilities contributed to Amergent. Further, as a common control transaction the condensed consolidated and combined financial statements of Amergent reflect the transaction as if the contribution had occurred as of the earliest period presented herein.
As such, the accompanying condensed consolidated and combined financial statements include the accounts of Amergent and its subsidiaries along with Chanticleer and its subsidiaries (collectively “we,” “us,” “our,” or the “Company”). All intercompany and inter-entity balances have been eliminated in consolidation and combination.
GENERAL
The accompanying condensed consolidated and combined financial statements included in this report have been prepared by the Company pursuant to the rules and regulations of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) for interim reporting and include all adjustments (consisting only of normal recurring adjustments) that are, in the opinion of management, necessary for a fair presentation. These condensed consolidated and combined financial statements have not been audited. The condensed consolidated and combined balance sheet as of December 31, 2020 has been derived from the audited consolidated and combined financial statements as of December 31, 2020 and for the year then ended included in Amergent’s annual report filed with the SEC on April 15, 2021. The results of operations for the three and nine-month period ended September 30, 2021 are not necessarily indicative of the operating results for the full year ending December 31, 2021.
Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in unaudited condensed consolidated and combined financial statements prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles of the United States (“U.S. GAAP”) have been condensed or omitted pursuant to such rules and regulations for interim reporting. The Company believes that the disclosures contained herein are adequate to make the information presented not misleading. However, these financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated and combined financial statements and notes thereto included in Amergent’s Annual Report for the year ended December 31, 2020 previously filed with the SEC.
LIQUIDITY, CAPITAL RESOURCES AND GOING CONCERN
Liquidity, Capital Resources and Going Concern
As
of September 30, 2021, the Company’s cash balance was $
| ● | our eligibility to access the capital and debt markets to satisfy current obligations and operate the business; | |
| ● | our ability to qualify for and utilize financial stimulus programs available through federal and state government programs; | |
| ● | our ability to refinance or otherwise extend maturities of current debt obligations; | |
| ● | our ability to manage our operating expenses and maintain gross margins; | |
| ● | popularity of and demand for our fast-casual dining concepts; and | |
| ● | general economic conditions and changes in consumer discretionary income. |
| 11 |
We have typically funded our operating costs, acquisition activities, working capital requirements and capital expenditures with proceeds from the issuances of our common stock, government tax credits and other financing arrangements, including convertible debt, lines of credit, notes payable, capital leases, and other forms of external financing.
The Company plans to seek additional capital in the future through equity and/or debt financings or other sources in order to sustain operations. We may seek to work with vendors and suppliers on payment plans, settle certain obligations at a discount, seek forgiveness of Paycheck Protection Program loans and look for other government stimulus programs. Additionally, the Company has significant debt due within the next twelve months that will need to be refinanced and/or settled. In the event that capital is not available, Amergent may then have to scale back or freeze its growth plans, sell assets on less than favorable terms, reduce expenses, and/or curtail future acquisition plans to manage its liquidity and capital resources.
On March 10, 2020, the World Health Organization characterized the novel COVID-19 virus as a global pandemic. The COVID-19 outbreak in the United States has resulted in a significant impact throughout the hospitality industry that have continued through September 30, 2021. The Company has been impacted due to restrictions placed by state and local governments that caused temporary restaurant closures or significantly reduced the Company’s ability to operate. It is difficult to estimate the length or severity of this outbreak; however, the Company has made operational changes, as needed, to reduce the impact.
The Company’s history of operating losses, combined with its working capital deficit which includes substantial near term debt repayment obligations and uncertainties regarding the impact of COVID-19, raise substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern.
The accompanying condensed consolidated and combined financial statements do not include any adjustments relating to the recoverability and classification of recorded asset amounts and classification of liabilities that might be necessary should the Company be unable to continue as a going concern.
2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
There have been no changes to our significant accounting policies described in the annual report for the year ended December 31, 2020 filed with the SEC on April 15, 2021, that would have had a significant impact on these unaudited condensed consolidated and combined financial statements and related notes.
BASIS OF PRESENTATION
The accompanying condensed consolidated and combined financial statements have been prepared in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“U.S. GAAP”). Any reference in these notes to applicable guidance is meant to refer to U.S. GAAP as found in the Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) and Accounting Standards Updates (“ASU”) promulgated by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”).
USE OF ESTIMATES
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. Significant estimates include analysis of the recoverability of goodwill and long-lived assets. Actual results could differ from those estimates, particularly given the significant social and economic disruptions and uncertainties associated with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and the COVID-19 control responses.
| 12 |
FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
The Company measures and records certain financial assets and liabilities at fair value on a recurring basis. U.S. GAAP provides a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value. The hierarchy gives the highest priority, referred to as Level 1, to quoted prices in active markets for identical assets and liabilities. The next priority, referred to as Level 2, is given to quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets or quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active; that is, markets in which there are few transactions for the asset or liability. The lowest priority, referred to as Level 3, is given to unobservable inputs. The table below reflects the level of the inputs used in the Company’s fair value calculations:
Quoted Prices in Active Markets (Level 1) | Significant Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Total Fair Value | |||||||||||||
| September 30, 2021 | ||||||||||||||||
| Assets (Note 4) | ||||||||||||||||
| Common stock of Sonnet | $ | $ | $ | |||||||||||||
Quoted Prices in Active Markets (Level 1) | Significant Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Total Fair Value | |||||||||||||
| December 31, 2020 | ||||||||||||||||
| Assets (Note 4) | ||||||||||||||||
| Common stock of Sonnet | $ | $ | $ | |||||||||||||
| Liabilities (Note 10) | ||||||||||||||||
| True-up provision of Convertible Preferred Series 2 | $ | $ | $ | $ | ||||||||||||
Inputs used in the Company’s Level 3 calculation of fair value related to the true-up provision of convertible preferred Series 2 are discussed in Note 11.
The Company is required to disclose fair value information about financial instruments when it is practicable to estimate that value. The carrying amounts of the Company’s cash, accounts receivable, other receivables, accounts payable, other current liabilities and notes payable approximate fair value due to the short-term maturities of these financial instruments and/or because related interest rates offered to the Company approximate current rates.
CASH
Cash consists of deposits held at financial institutions and is stated at fair value. The Company limits its credit risk associated with cash by maintaining its bank accounts at major financial institutions.
RESTRICTED CASH
As
of September 30, 2021 and December 31, 2020, the Company maintained restricted cash of $
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT
Property and equipment are stated at cost, less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation and amortization, which includes amortization of assets held under capital leases, are recorded generally using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the respective assets or, if shorter, the term of the lease for certain assets held under a capital lease. Leasehold improvements are amortized over the lesser of the expected lease term or the estimated useful lives of the related assets using the straight-line method. Maintenance and repairs that do not improve or extend the useful lives of the assets are not considered assets and are charged to expense when incurred.
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The estimated useful lives used to compute depreciation and amortization are as follows:
| Leasehold improvements | ||||
| Restaurant furnishings and equipment | ||||
| Furniture and fixtures | ||||
| Office and computer equipment |
INTANGIBLE ASSETS
Trade Name/Trademark
The
fair value of trade name/trademarks are estimated and compared to the carrying value. The Company estimates the fair value of trademarks
using the relief-from-royalty method, which requires assumptions related to projected sales from its annual long-range plan; assumed
royalty rates that could be payable if the Company did not own the trademarks; and a discount rate. Certain of the Company’s trade
name/trademarks have been determined to have a definite-lived life and are being amortized on a straight-line basis over estimated useful
lives of
LONG-LIVED ASSETS
Long-lived assets, such as property and equipment, operating lease assets, and purchased intangible assets subject to depreciation and amortization, are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. Some of the events or changes in circumstances that would trigger an impairment test include, but are not limited to:
| ● | significant under-performance relative to expected and/or historical results (negative comparable sales growth or operating cash flows for two consecutive years); | |
| ● | significant negative industry or economic trends; | |
| ● | knowledge of transactions involving the sale of similar property at amounts below the Company’s carrying value; or | |
| ● | the Company’s expectation to dispose of long-lived assets before the end of their estimated useful lives, even though the assets do not meet the criteria to be classified as “Held for Sale.” |
If circumstances require a long-lived asset or asset group be tested for possible impairment, the Company first compares undiscounted cash flows expected to be generated by that asset or asset group to its carrying value. If the carrying value of the long-lived asset or asset group is not recoverable on an undiscounted cash flow basis, an impairment is recognized to the extent that the carrying value exceeds its fair value. Fair value is determined through various valuation techniques, including discounted cash flow models, quoted market values and third-party independent appraisals, as considered necessary.
During the third quarter of 2019 and continuing in 2020 and 2021, the Company determined that triggering events occurred some of which were related to the COVID-19 outbreak requiring management to review the certain long-lived assets for impairment. Due to the continued impact of this pandemic on the Company’s business, management has performed an impairment analysis of its long-lived assets at each quarter end in 2020 and through September 30, 2021 and determined that the carrying value of the Company’s trade name/trademark intangible asset, property and equipment and operating lease assets (see Notes 5, 6, and 11 for further discussion) were impaired during the nine-month period ended September 30, 2021. No impairments were recorded for the three-month period ended September 30, 2021. The determination was based on the best judgment of management for the future of the asset and on information known at the time of the assessment.
GOODWILL
Goodwill, which is not subject to amortization, is evaluated for impairment annually as of the end of the Company’s year-end, or more frequently if an event occurs or circumstances change, such as material deterioration in performance or a significant number of store closures, that would indicate an impairment may exist. Goodwill is tested for impairment at a level of reporting referred to as a reporting unit. Management determined that the Company has one reporting unit.
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Due to the continued impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Company’s business, management has performed an impairment analysis of goodwill as of beginning in the first quarter of 2020 and quarterly thereafter through September 2021.
When evaluating goodwill for impairment, the Company may first perform a qualitative assessment to determine whether it is more likely than not that a reporting unit is impaired. If the Company does not perform a qualitative assessment or determines that it is not more likely than not that the fair value of the reporting unit exceeds its carrying amount, a quantitative assessment is performed to calculate the estimated fair value of the reporting unit. If the carrying amount of the reporting unit exceeds the estimated fair value, an impairment charge is recorded to reduce the carrying value to the estimated fair value. The Company’s decision to perform a qualitative impairment assessment is influenced by a number of factors, including the significance of the excess of the reporting unit’s estimated fair value over carrying value at the last quantitative assessment date, the amount of time in between quantitative fair value assessments, and the price of our common stock.
Step one of the impairment test is based upon a comparison of the carrying value of net assets, including goodwill balances, to the fair value of net assets. The Company performed a quantitative assessment at September 30, 2021 and determined that goodwill was not impaired due to the excess fair value of the reporting unit over its carrying value based on the best judgement of management for the future of the reporting unit and on information known at the time of the assessment.
FOREIGN CURRENCY TRANSLATION
Assets and liabilities denominated in local currency are translated to U.S. dollars using the exchange rates as in effect at the balance sheet date. Results of operations are translated using average exchange rates prevailing throughout the period. Adjustments resulting from the process of translating foreign currency financial statements from functional currency into U.S. dollars are included in accumulated other comprehensive loss within stockholders’ deficit. Foreign currency transaction gains and losses are included in current operating results. The Company has determined that local currency is the functional currency for its foreign operations.
LEASES
We
determine if a contract contains a lease at inception. Our material operating leases consist of restaurant locations and office space.
Our leases generally have remaining terms of
or
the lease term inclusive of reasonably certain renewal periods up to a term of
Operating lease assets and liabilities are recognized at the lease commencement date. Operating lease liabilities represent the present value of lease payments not yet paid. Operating lease assets represent our right to use an underlying asset and are based upon the operating lease liabilities adjusted for prepayments or accrued lease payments, initial direct costs, lease incentives, and impairment of operating lease assets. To determine the present value of lease payments not yet paid, we estimate incremental borrowing rates corresponding to the reasonably certain lease term. We estimated this rate based on prevailing financial market conditions, comparable company and credit analysis, and management judgment. If the estimate of our incremental borrowing rate was changed, our operating lease assets and liabilities could differ materially.
EMPLOYEE RETENTION CREDIT
The
Employee Retention Credit (“ERC”) under the CARES Act is a refundable tax credit which encourages businesses to keep
employees on the payroll during the COVID-19 pandemic. Eligible employers can qualify for up to $7,000 of credit for each employee
based on qualified wages paid after December 31, 2020 and before January 1, 2022. Qualified wages are the wages paid to an employee
during an economic hardship, specifically, either (1) a full or partial suspension of operations by order of a governmental
authority due to COVID-19, or (2) a significant decline in gross receipts. The Company recognized $
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RESTAURANT REVITALIZATION FUND
The Company measures and recognizes share-based compensation expense for both employee and nonemployee awards based on the grant date fair value of the awards. The Company recognizes share-based compensation expense on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period of the awards, which is generally the vesting period. The Company recognizes forfeitures as they occur.
The Company estimates the fair value of employee and non-employee stock awards as of the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. Management estimates the expected share price volatility based on the historical volatility of the Company. The expected term of the Company’s stock awards has been determined utilizing the “simplified” method for awards that qualify as “plain-vanilla” stock awards. The risk-free interest rate is determined by reference to the yield curve of a zero-coupon U.S. Treasury bond on the date of grant of the award for time periods approximately equal to the expected term of the award. Expected dividend yield is based on the fact that the Company has never paid cash dividends on common stock and does not expect to pay any cash dividends in the foreseeable future.
INCOME TAXES
Deferred income taxes are provided on the liability method whereby deferred tax assets are recognized for deductible temporary differences and operating loss and tax credit carryforwards and deferred tax liabilities are recognized for taxable temporary differences. Temporary differences are the differences between the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and their tax basis. Deferred tax assets are reduced by a valuation allowance when, in the opinion of management, it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are adjusted for the effects of changes in tax laws and rates on the date of enactment.
The Company has provided a valuation allowance for the full amount of the deferred tax assets in the accompanying consolidated and combined financial statements.
As of September 30, 2021 and December 31, 2020, the Company had no accrued interest or penalties relating to any income tax obligations. The Company currently has no federal or state examinations in progress, nor has it had any federal or state tax examinations since its inception. The last three years of the Company’s tax years are subject to federal and state tax examination.
The Company computes net loss per share using the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Basic and diluted net loss per share are the same because the conversion, exercise or issuance of all potential common stock equivalents, which comprise the entire amount of the Company’s outstanding warrants, as described in Note 9, the potential conversion of the convertible debt, as described in Note 7, and the share-based awards outstanding, as described in Note 12, would be anti-dilutive.
RECENTLY ADOPTED ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS
In December 2019, the FASB issued ASU No. 2019-12, Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes (Topic 740). The objective of the standard is to improve areas of GAAP by removing certain exceptions permitted by Accounting Standards Codification 740 and clarifying existing guidance to facilitate consistent application. The standard was effective for the Company beginning on January 1, 2021. The adoption of ASU 2019-12 as of January 1, 2021 did not have a material impact on the condensed consolidated and combined financial statements.
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RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS
In August 2020, the FASB issued ASU 2020-06, “Debt—Debt with Conversion and Other Options” to address the complexity associated with applying U.S. GAAP to certain financial instruments with characteristics of liabilities and equity. ASU 2020-06 includes amendments to the guidance on convertible instruments and the derivative scope exception for contracts in an entity’s own equity and simplifies the accounting for convertible instruments which include beneficial conversion features or cash conversion features by removing certain separation models in Subtopic 470-20. Additionally, ASU 2020-06 will require entities to use the “if-converted” method when calculating diluted earnings per share for convertible instruments. ASU 2020-06 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2021 (fiscal year 2022 for the Company), including interim periods within those fiscal years. The Company is currently evaluating the new standard to determine the potential impact on its financial condition, results of operations, cash flows, and financial statement disclosures.
We reviewed all other recently issued accounting pronouncements and concluded that they were either not applicable or not expected to have a significant impact to the condensed consolidated and combined financial statements.
3. ACQUISITION
On
August 30, 2021, the Company purchased all of the outstanding membership interests in Pie Squared Holdings pursuant to a Unit Purchase
Agreement (Purchase Agreement). Pie Squared Holdings, directly and through its four wholly owned subsidiaries, owns, operates and franchises
pizza restaurants operating under the tradename PizzaRev. The PizzaRev stores consist of three company owned stores and nine franchised
locations. The purchase price is an
Due to the close proximity of timing of the acquisition and our filing of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, the fair value of assets acquired, and liabilities assumed represent a preliminary allocation as our evaluation of facts and circumstances available as of September 30, 2021 is ongoing. Pursuant to Topic 805, the financial statements will not be retrospectively adjusted for any provisional amount changes that occur in subsequent periods. Rather, we will recognize any provisional adjustments as we obtain information not available as of the completion of this preliminary fair value calculation as determined within the measurement period. We will also be required to record, in the same period as the financial statements, the effects to any income statement captions, if any, as a result of any change to the provisional amounts, calculated as if the accounting had been completed at the acquisition date. We expect to finalize the purchase price allocation as soon as practicable, but no later than one year from the acquisition date.
A preliminary estimate of the assets acquired, and liabilities assumed as of the acquisition date consists of the following:
| Assets acquired: | ||||
| Cash | $ | |||
| Restricted cash | ||||
| Property and equipment | ||||
| Right of use asset | ||||
| Tradename/trademark intangible | ||||
| Franchise rights intangible | ||||
| Goodwill | ||||
| Security deposits and other assets | ||||
| Total assets acquired | $ | |||
| Liabilities assumed | ||||
| Gift card liability | $ | |||
| Deferred revenue | ||||
| Deferred grant income | ||||
| Right of use liability | ||||
| Total liabilities assumed | $ | |||
| Net purchase price | $ |
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Interest
on the Note is due quarterly and $
2021 | ||||
| Volatility | % | |||
| Risk free rate | % - | % | ||
| Stock price | ||||
| Credit spread | % | |||
In
2021, and prior to the acquisition, Pie Square Holdings received a grant under the U.S. Small Business Administration’s RRF for approximately $
Restricted cash and a deferred grant income liability has been recorded on the opening balance sheet for the unused proceeds from the RRF, and the liability will be reduced as the restricted cash is used for eligible costs incurred under the RRF post acquisition.
As
the Company acquired all the outstanding membership interests in Pie Square Holdings, the Company assumed all the rights and obligations
of Pie Square Holdings that arose from transactions of Pie Square Holdings prior to the sale event, both stated rights and obligations
as well as those that are contingent. As noted above, Pie Square Holdings applied for and received an approximately $
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The following unaudited pro forma information reflects the impact of the acquisition as if it had closed on January 1, 2020.
| Nine months ended September 30, 2021 | Nine months ended September 30, 2020 | |||||||
| Total revenue | $ | $ | ||||||
| Operating loss | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | ||
| Net loss | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | ||
| Net loss per share (basic and diluted) | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | ||
The unaudited pro forma statement of operations
data for the nine months ended September 30, 2021, excludes the approximately $
4. INVESTMENTS
Investments consist of the following:
| September 30, 2021 | December 31, 2020 | |||||||
| Common stock of Sonnet, at fair value | $ | $ | ||||||
| Chanticleer Investors, LLC, at cost | ||||||||
| Total | $ | $ | ||||||
Common Stock of Sonnet
In
2020 the Company received warrants to purchase Sonnet common stock as part of consideration for the Merger with Sonnet (See Note 1).
On November 17, 2020, the Company exercised the warrants and holds common stock of Sonnet. Shares were sold in 2021 and the Company received
proceeds of $
Chanticleer Investors LLC
In
June 2019, an analysis of the transaction and the value of the cash received and retained non-controlling interest was performed. The
Company concluded that its investment was impaired as of June 30, 2019 and recorded a $
Hooters
of America redeemed a portion of the Company’s ownership interest and paid $
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5. PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, NET
Property and equipment, net consists of the following:
| September 30, 2021 | December 31, 2020 | |||||||
| Leasehold improvements | $ | $ | ||||||
| Restaurant furniture and equipment | ||||||||
| Construction in progress | ||||||||
| Office and computer equipment | ||||||||
| Office furniture and fixtures | ||||||||
| Accumulated depreciation and amortization | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||
| $ | $ | |||||||
The
COVID-19 outbreak in the United States has resulted in a significant impact throughout the hospitality industry. The impact has varied
by state/geographical area within the United States at various intervals since the pandemic has been declared. Accordingly, the operating
results and cash flows at the store level have varied significantly leading to an analysis of impairment at the store level for each
quarter end beginning at the end of the first quarter of 2020 and continuing through September 30, 2021. Several stores were permanently
or temporarily closed during 2020 and 2021 while others are operating at reduced capacity. Based on the assessment of recoverability,
an impairment charge of approximately $
Depreciation
expense was $
6. INTANGIBLE ASSETS, NET
GOODWILL
A roll-forward of goodwill is as follows:
| Nine Months Ended September 30, 2021 | Year Ended December 31, 2020 | |||||||
| Beginning balance | $ | $ | ||||||
| Foreign currency translation gain | ( | ) | ||||||
| Goodwill acquired in acquisition | ||||||||
| Goodwill reclassified to noncurrent assets held for sale (Note 14) | ( | ) | ||||||
| Ending balance | $ | $ | ||||||
OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS
Franchise and trademark/tradename intangible assets consist of the following:
| September 30, 2021 | December 31, 2020 | |||||||||||
| Trademark, Tradenames: | ||||||||||||
| American Roadside Burger | $ | $ | ||||||||||
| BGR: The Burger Joint | ||||||||||||
| Little Big Burger | ||||||||||||
| PizzaRev | ||||||||||||
| Acquired Franchise Rights: | ||||||||||||
| BGR: The Burger Joint | ||||||||||||
| PizzaRev | ||||||||||||
| Franchise License Fees: | ||||||||||||
| Hooters Pacific NW | ||||||||||||
| Hooters UK | ||||||||||||
| Total intangibles at cost | ||||||||||||
| Accumulated amortization | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||
| Intangible assets, net | $ | $ | ||||||||||
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An
analysis of the recoverability of the carrying value was performed at each quarter end beginning at the end of the first quarter of 2020
and continuing through September 30, 2021. Based on that analysis, an impairment charge of approximately $
Amortization
of intangible assets was $
7. DEBT AND NOTES PAYABLE
Debt and notes payable are summarized as follows at September 30, 2021 and December 31, 2020:
| September 30, 2021 | December 31, 2020 | |||||||
| Notes payable (a) | $ | $ | ||||||
| Notes payable (b) | ||||||||
| Contractor note (c) | ||||||||
| PPP loans (d) | ||||||||
| UK Bounce Back loan (e) | ||||||||
| EIDL loans (f) | ||||||||
| Convertible debt (g) | ||||||||
| Convertible promissory note (h) | ||||||||
| Total Debt | ||||||||
| Less: discount on convertible debt (g) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||
| Total Debt, net of discount | $ | $ | ||||||
| Current portion of long-term debt | $ | $ | ||||||
| Long-term debt, less current portion | $ | $ | ||||||
| (a) |
| (b) |
| (c) |
| (d) |
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| On February 25, 2021, the Company received a second PPP Loan of $ |
| (e) |
| (f) |
| (g) |
| On August 17, 2020, the Company and Oz Rey amended the 10% secured convertible debenture to fix the conversion rate into common stock at $0.10 per share. Further, the amendment provides a limitation on Oz Rey’s ability to convert the debenture into common stock so that the conversion would not result in the issuance of common stock exceeding the amount of authorized shares. Oz Rey may; however, upon reasonably notice to the Company, require the Company to include in its proxy materials, for any annual meeting of shareholders being held by the Company, a proposal to amend the Company’s certificate of incorporation to increase the Company’s authorized shares to a number sufficient to allow for conversion of all shares underlying the debenture, on a fully diluted basis. Oz Rey also agreed that the Company would not be required under any circumstances to make a cash payment to settle the conversion feature not exercisable due to the authorized share cap or in an event that the Company was unable to deliver shares under the conversion feature. Oz Rey also agreed to waive any event of default under the debenture that occurred or existed prior to August 17, 2020. As a result of these modifications, the warrants are no longer liability classified and the conversion feature is no longer required to be bifurcated from the debt host as of the date of the amendment. |
| In
connection with the exchange of the debentures, Amergent issued warrants to Oz Rey and the original 8% non-convertible debenture holders
to purchase |
| The
Company recorded a debt discount of approximately $ |
| (h) |
| 22 |
| The Company’s various loan agreements contain financial and non-financial covenants and provisions providing for cross-default. The evaluation of compliance with these provisions is subject to interpretation and the exercise of judgment. The Company’s lender has provided a waiver of certain financial covenants through September 30, 2021. |
8. ACCOUNTS PAYABLE AND ACCRUED EXPENSES
Accounts payable and accrued expenses are summarized as follows:
| September 30, 2021 | December 31, 2020 | |||||||
| Accounts payable | $ | $ | ||||||
| Accrued expenses | ||||||||
| Accrued taxes (VAT, Sales, Payroll, etc.) | ||||||||
| Accrued interest | ||||||||
| $ | $ | |||||||
As
of September 30, 2021 and December 31, 2020, approximately $
9. STOCKHOLDER’S EQUITY
2020 Bridge Financing
Pursuant
to a Securities Purchase Agreement dated February 7, 2020, the Company sold shares of a new series of convertible preferred stock
of Chanticleer (the “Series 2 Preferred Stock”) to an institutional investor for gross proceeds to the Company of $
On
August 17, 2020, the Company and the holders of the Series 2 Preferred Stock entered into a Waiver, Consent, and Amendment to the Certificate
of Designations (the “Extension Agreement”) which included provisions for an extension of the true-up payment discussed below
from August 7, 2020 to December 10, 2020 and permitted the shares of Amergent obtained by the investor in the Spin-Off to be included
in the determination of the True-Up Payment discussed below, with the Company paying all expenses incurred by the institutional investor
in connection with the Extension Agreement and certain consideration for the institutional in investor’s willingness to extend
the date of the true-up payment. The consideration included $
On
February 16, 2021, the Company and the holders of the Series 2 Preferred Stock entered into a Waiver, Consent and Amendment to the Certificate
of Designations (the “Waiver”). Pursuant to the Waiver, the Company filed the Second Amendment and Restated Certificate of
Designations of Series 2 Convertible Preferred Stock (“Amended COD”) with the Delaware Secretary of State (i) providing for
the extension of the True-Up Payment to April 1, 2021, (ii) providing for the deduction of proceeds to the original holders from sales
of Series 2 Preferred for the True-Up Payment, and (iii) providing for a reduction in amount of cash subject to restriction as discussed
below from $
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During the nine months ended September 30, 2021, the investors converted shares of the Series 2 Preferred Stock into common shares and sold those common shares in the market. In addition, the investors sold their remaining Series 2 Preferred Stock to other investors. The new investors converted shares of Series 2 Preferred Stock into common stock during May 2021, and Series 2 Preferred Stock remain outstanding at September 30, 2021.
The Series 2 Preferred Stock is classified in the accompanying condensed consolidated and combined balance sheet at September 30, 2021 as temporary equity due to certain contingent redemption features which are outside the control of the Company.
Designations, rights and preferences of Series 2 Preferred Stock:
Stated value: Each share of Series 2 Preferred Stock had a stated value of $1,000.
True-Up
Payment: Amergent was required to pay the original holder an amount in cash equal to the dollar value of
Redemption: If the Merger was not completed within six months of issuance of the Series 2 Preferred Stock, the Company would have been required to redeem all the outstanding Series 2 Preferred Stock for 125% of the aggregate stated value of the Series 2 Preferred Stock then outstanding plus any default interest and any other fees or liquidated damages then due and owing thereon under the Certificate of Designations. Additionally, there are other triggering events, as defined, that can cause the Series 2 Preferred Stock to be redeemable at the option of the holder of which some are outside of the control of the Company.
Conversion
at option of holder/ beneficial ownership limitation The Series 2 Preferred Stock is convertible at the option of holder at the lesser
of (i) $
Forced conversion: The Company had the right to require the holder to convert up to shares of Series 2 Preferred Stock upon delivery of notice three days prior to the Merger, subject to the beneficial ownership limitation and applicable Nasdaq rules. Unconverted shares of Series 2 Preferred Stock automatically were exchanged for an equal number of shares of Series 2 Preferred Stock in Amergent on substantially the same terms.
Liquidation preference Upon any liquidation, dissolution or winding-up of the Company, the holder is entitled to receive out of the assets, whether capital or surplus, an amount equal to 125% of the stated value plus any default interest and any other fees or liquidated damages then due and owing thereon under the Certificate of Designations, for each share of Series 2 Preferred Stock before any distribution or payment to the holders of common stock.
Voting rights: The holder of Series 2 Preferred Stock has the right to vote together with the holders of common stock as a single class on an as-converted basis on all matters presented to the holders of common stock and shall vote as a separate class on all matters presented to the holders of Series 2 Preferred Stock. In addition, without the approval of the holder, the Company is required to obtain the approval of Series 2 Preferred Stock, as is customary, for certain events and transactions not contemplated by the Merger.
Triggering Events: Breach of Company’s obligations will trigger a redemption event.
Anti-Dilution: Customary adjustments in the event of dividends or stock splits and anti-dilution protection.
Concurrently with the Preferred Securities Purchase Agreement, the parties entered into a registration rights agreement (the “Preferred Registration Rights Agreement”). Pursuant to the Preferred Registration Rights Agreement, the Company was required to file a registration statement registering the conversion shares no later than 15 days from the closing of this transaction.
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Warrants
A summary of the warrant activity during the nine months ended September 30, 2021 is presented below:
| Number of Warrants | Weighted Average Exercise Price | Weighted Average Remaining Life | ||||||||||
| Outstanding at December 31, 2020 | $ | |||||||||||
| Granted | — | |||||||||||
| Exercised | — | |||||||||||
| Forfeited/Other Adjustments | — | |||||||||||
| Outstanding at September 30, 2021 | $ | |||||||||||
| Exercisable September 30, 2021 | $ | |||||||||||
At September 30, 2021, the outstanding warrants consisted of the following:
| Date issued | Number of warrants | Exercise Price | Expiration Date | |||||||
| April 1, 2020 | $ | |||||||||
| April 1, 2020 | $ | |||||||||
| March 30, 2020 | $ | |||||||||
| August 17, 2020 | $ | |||||||||
10. DERIVATIVE LIABILITIES
The
derivative liabilities at December 31, 2020 consisted of a True-Up Payment provision of the Series 2 Preferred Stock (See Note 9). The
True-Up payment was settled in July 2021 with a cash payment of $
The table presented below is a summary of changes in the fair market value of the Company’s Level 3 valuations for the nine months ended September 30, 2021.
| True-Up Payment | ||||
| Balance at December 31, 2020 | $ | |||
| Change in fair value during the period | ( | ) | ||
| Settlement of derivative liability | ( | ) | ||
| Balance at September 30, 2021 | $ | |||
11. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
Legal proceedings
Indemnification agreement and tail policy
On March 25, 2020, pursuant to the requirements of the Merger Agreement, Chanticleer, Sonnet and Amergent entered into an indemnification agreement (“Indemnification Agreement”) providing that Amergent will fully indemnify and hold harmless each of Chanticleer and Sonnet, and each of their respective, directors, officers, stockholders and managers who assumes such role upon or following the closing of the merger against all actual or threatened claims, losses, liabilities, damages, judgments, fines and reasonable fees, costs and expenses, including attorneys’ fees and disbursements, incurred in connection with any claim, action, suit, proceeding or investigation, whether civil, administrative, investigative or otherwise, related to the Spin-Off Business prior to or in connection with its disposition to Amergent.
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In
addition, pursuant to Merger Agreement, prior to closing of the Merger, the Spin-Off Entity acquired a tail insurance policy in a coverage
amount of $
Litigation related to leased properties
During 2020 and 2021 the Company was in arrears on rent due on several of its leases as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, the Company has pending litigation related to 8 sites of which 5 have permanently closed. The outcome of this litigation could result in the permanent closure of additional restaurant locations as well as the possibility of the Company being required to pay interest and damages, modify certain leases on unfavorable terms and could result in material impairments to the Company’s assets.
No amounts have been accrued as of September 30, 2021 and December 31, 2020 in the accompanying condensed consolidated and combined balance sheets as management does not believe the outcome will result in additional liabilities to the Company; however, there can be no guarantees.
From time to time, the Company may be involved in other legal proceedings and claims that have arisen in the ordinary course of business are generally covered by insurance. As of September 30, 2021, the Company does not expect the amount of ultimate liability with respect to these matters to be material to the Company’s financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
Leases
The Company’s leases typically contain rent escalations over the lease term. The Company recognizes expense for these leases on a straight-line basis over the lease term. Additionally, tenant incentives used to fund leasehold improvements are recognized when earned and reduce our right-of-use asset related to the lease. These incentives are amortized through the right-of-use asset as reductions of expense over the lease term.
Some of the Company’s leases include rent escalations based on inflation indexes and fair market value adjustments. Certain leases contain contingent rental provisions that include a fixed base rent plus an additional percentage of the restaurant’s sales in excess of stipulated amounts. Operating lease liabilities are calculated using the prevailing index or rate at lease commencement. Subsequent escalations in the index or rate and contingent rental payments are recognized as variable lease expenses. The Company’s lease agreements do not contain any material residual value guarantees or material restrictive covenants. As part of the lease agreements, the Company is also responsible for payments regarding non-lease components (common area maintenance, operating expenses, etc.) and percentage rent payments based on monthly or annual restaurant sales amounts which are considered variable costs and are not included as part of the lease liabilities.
Related to the adoption of Leases Topic 842, our policy elections were as follows:
Separation of lease and non-lease components
The Company elected this expedient to account for lease and non-lease components as a single component for the entire population of operating lease assets.
Short-term policy
The Company has elected the short-term lease recognition exemption for all applicable classes of underlying assets. Leases with an initial term of 12 months or less, that do not include an option to purchase the underlying asset that we are reasonably certain to exercise, are not recorded on the balance sheet.
Supplemental balance sheet information related to leases was as follows:
| Operating Leases | Classification | September 30, 2021 | December 31, 2020 | |||||||
| Right-of-use assets | Operating lease assets | $ | $ | |||||||
| Current lease liabilities | Current operating lease liabilities | $ | $ | |||||||
| Non-current lease liabilities | Long-term operating lease liabilities | |||||||||
| $ | $ | |||||||||
| 26 |
Lease term and discount rate were as follows:
| September 30, 2021 | December 31, 2020 | |||||||
| Weighted average remaining lease term (years) | ||||||||
| Weighted average discount rate | % | % | ||||||
COVID-19
has negatively impacted operating results and cash flows at significantly varying amounts at the store level. Several stores were permanently
closed during the year ended December 31, 2020 while others operated at a reduced capacity. Based on an assessment of the recoverability
of the right-of-use asset as of September 30, 2021, an impairment charge of $
During
the three and nine months ended September 30, 2021, respectively, $
Rent
expense of approximately $
PPP Loan
The
Company received two PPP loans for amounts of $
Presently,
the SBA and other governmental communications have indicated that all loans in excess of $
RRF
As
discussed in Note 3, Pie Squared received an approximately $
12. SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION
In August 2021, the Company adopted the 2021 Inducement Plan (“the Plan”). Under the 2021 Inducement Plan, the Company can grant stock options and stock awards. There are shares of common stock reserved for issuance under the Plan. As of September 30, 2021, 50,000 shares remained available for future grants.
Share-based awards generally vest over a period of three years, and share-based awards that lapse or are forfeited are available to be granted again. The contractual life of all share-based awards is five years. The expiration date of the outstanding share-based awards is August 2026.
The Company measures share-based awards at their grant-date fair value and records compensation expense on a straight-line basis over the service period of the awards. Share-based compensation is allocated to employees and consultants based on their respective departments.
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The Company recorded share-based compensation expense of $ in general and administrative expense during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2021.
| 2021 | ||||
| Volatility | % | |||
| Risk free rate | % | |||
| Expected term | ||||
| Dividend | ||||
| Number of Options | Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share | Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (years) | ||||||||||
| Outstanding at December 31, 2020 | $ | - | ||||||||||
| Granted | $ | |||||||||||
| Outstanding at September 30, 2021 | $ | |||||||||||
| Exercisable at September 30, 2021 | $ | |||||||||||
| Vested and expected to vest at September 30, 2021 | $ | |||||||||||
The weighted average fair value of share-based awards granted during the nine months ended September 30, 2021 was $. As of September 30, 2021, the unrecognized compensation cost related to outstanding share-based awards was $ million and is expected to be recognized as expense over a weighted-average period of approximately years.
13. Restatement of Previously Issued Condensed Consolidated and Combined Financial Statements (Unaudited)
The Company, while undergoing the audit of its consolidated and combined financial statements as of December 31, 2020 and for the year then ended, re-evaluated the lease term for three restaurants that were permanently closed in 2020 due to the pandemic and determined that the lease terms should no longer have included periods subject to renewal options. Impairment charges had been recorded for these restaurants during the respective quarter that the restaurants were closed, but the 2020 interim unaudited financial statements did not reflect the revised lease terms. This impacted the previously reported amounts for operating lease assets, operating lease liabilities, and rent expense, among other line items in the condensed consolidated and combined interim financial statements.
The following table sets forth the effects of the adjustments on the affected items within the Company’s previously reported Condensed Consolidated and Combined Interim Balance Sheet as of September 30, 2020:
| September 30, 2020 | ||||||||||||
| As reported | Adjustment | As restated | ||||||||||
| Operating lease assets | $ | $ | $ | |||||||||
| Derivative liabilities | $ | $ | ( | ) | $ | |||||||
| Long-term operating lease liabilities | $ | $ | ( | ) | $ | |||||||
| Accumulated deficit | $ | ( | ) | $ | $ | ( | ) | |||||
| Non-controlling interests | $ | ( | ) | $ | $ | ( | ) | |||||
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The following tables sets forth the effects of the adjustments on affected items within the Company’s previously reported Condensed Consolidated and Combined Interim Statements of Operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020:
| Three Months Ended September 30, 2020 | ||||||||||||
| As reported | Adjustment | As restated | ||||||||||
| Restaurant operating expenses | $ | $ | ( | ) | $ | |||||||
| Asset impairment charge | $ | $ | ( | ) | $ | |||||||
| Operating loss | $ | ( | ) | $ | $ | ( | ) | |||||
| Change in fair value of derivative liabilities * | $ | ( | ) | $ | $ | ( | ) | |||||
| Other income (expense) | $ | ( | ) | $ | $ | ( | ) | |||||
| Consolidated and combined net loss | $ | ( | ) | $ | $ | ( | ) | |||||
| Net loss attributable to non-controlling interests | $ | $ | ( | ) | $ | |||||||
| Net loss attributable to Amergent Hospitality Group Inc | $ | ( | ) | $ | $ | ( | ) | |||||
| Net loss per common share, basic and diluted | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | |||
| Nine Months Ended September 30, 2020 | ||||||||||||
| As reported | Adjustment | As restated | ||||||||||
| Restaurant operating expenses | $ | $ | ( | ) | $ | |||||||
| Asset impairment charge | $ | $ | ( | ) | $ | |||||||
| Operating loss | $ | ( | ) | $ | $ | ( | ) | |||||
| Change in fair value of derivative liabilities * | $ | ( | ) | $ | $ | |||||||
| Other income (expense) | $ | ( | ) | $ | $ | |||||||
| Consolidated and combined net loss | $ | ( | ) | $ | $ | ( | ) | |||||
| Net loss attributable to non-controlling interests | $ | $ | ( | ) | $ | |||||||
| Net loss attributable to Amergent Hospitality Group Inc | $ | ( | ) | $ | $ | ( | ) | |||||
| Net loss per common share, basic and diluted | $ | ( | ) | $ | $ | ( | ) | |||||
There was no impact to the Company’s cash flows from operating, investing, or financing activities for the periods ended March 31, 2020, June 30, 2020, or September 30, 2020 as a result of these restatements.
| * | These amounts have been changed from the amounts reported in Note 14 to the 2020 annual financial statements filed on Form 10-K; however, the changes do not impact the restated operating loss, net loss, net loss attributable to non-controlling interests and to Amergent Hospitality Group Inc., and let loss per common share, basis and diluted previously reported. |
14. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
The Company has evaluated subsequent events from the balance sheet date through the date at which the condensed consolidated and combined financial statements were available to be issued, and there are no other items requiring disclosure except the following.
On
October 8, 2021, the Company, through its wholly owned UK subsidiary, Chanticleer UK Group Limited, sold West End Wings Limited (UK),
the Company’s Hooters restaurant located in Nottingham, England, to Hard Four Consultancy Limited (UK) for the final purchase price
of £
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ITEM 2: MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations should be read together with our financial statements and the related notes and the other financial information included elsewhere in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (“Report”). This discussion contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Our actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, including those discussed below and elsewhere in this Report, particularly those under “Risk Factors.”
Overview
As of September 30, 2021, we operated and franchised a system-wide total of 39 fast casual restaurants, of which 30 were company-owned and 18 were owned and operated by franchisees under franchise agreements. During the nine months ended September 30, 2021, there was one company-owned restaurant that was permanently closed because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
American Burger Company (“ABC”) is a fast-casual dining chain consisting of 3 locations in North Carolina and New York. ABC is known for its diverse menu featuring fresh salads, customized burgers, milk shakes, sandwiches, and beer and wine.
BGR: The Burger Joint (“BGR”) was acquired in March 2015 and consists of 7 company-owned locations in the United States and 9 franchisee-operated locations in the United States and the Middle East.
Little Big Burger (“LBB”) was acquired in September 2015 and consists of 16 company-owned locations in the Portland, Oregon, Seattle, Washington, and Charlotte, North Carolina areas. The newest location at the University of Oregon was acquired in August 2021 and will become operational in December 2021. Of the company-owned restaurants, 8 of those locations are operated under partnership agreements with investors where we control the management and operations of the stores, and the partner supplied the capital to open the store in exchange for a non-controlling interest.
Pie Squared Holdings was acquired on August 30, 2021. Pie Squared Holdings, directly and through its four wholly owned subsidiaries, owns, operates and franchises pizza restaurants operating under the tradename PizzaRev. The PizzaRev stores consist of three company owned stores and nine franchised locations.
As of September 30, 2021, we operated 1 Hooters full-service restaurant in the United Kingdom. On October 8, 2021, we sold West End Wings Limited (UK), the Company’s Hooters restaurant located in Nottingham, England, to Hard Four Consultancy Limited (UK) for the final purchase price of £518,295 (approximately $705,710). Accordingly, the assets and liabilities of West End Wings Limited (UK) are presented in the condensed consolidated balance sheet as “held for sale.”
Hooters of America redeemed a portion of the Company’s ownership interest in the entity and paid $349,293 to the Company in October 2021. After the redemption, the Company’s effective economic interest in Hooters of America was less than 1%.
Recent Developments
PPP Loan
On March 27, 2020, Congress passed “The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act” (CARES Act), which included the “Paycheck Protection Program” (PPP) for small businesses. On April 27, 2020, Amergent received a PPP loan of $2.1 million. Due to the Spin-Off and Merger, Amergent was not publicly traded at the time of the loan application or funding. The note bears interest at 1% per year, matures in April 2022, and requires monthly interest and principal payments of approximately $119,000 beginning in November 2020 and through maturity.
On February 25, 2021, the Company received a second loan of $2.0 million under the Paycheck Protection Program . The note bears interest at 1% per year, matures on February 25, 2026, and requires monthly principal and interest payments of approximately $44,660 beginning June 25, 2022 through maturity.
The currently issued guidelines of the program allow for the loan proceeds to be forgiven if certain requirements are met. Any loan proceeds not forgiven will be repaid in full. The Company applied for forgiveness of the first loan and the application is under review by the government agency administering the PPP. No assurance can be given as to the amount, if any, of forgiveness. The application for forgiveness allowed the Company to defer the timing of repayment until the forgiveness assessment is completed.
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Employee Retention Credit
The Employee Retention Credit (“ERC”) under the CARES Act is a refundable tax credit which encourages businesses to keep employees on the payroll during the COVID-19 pandemic. Eligible employers can qualify for up to $7,000 of credit for each employee based on qualified wages paid after December 31, 2020 and before January 1, 2022. Qualified wages are the wages paid to an employee for the time that the employee is not providing services due to an economic hardship, specifically, either (1) a full or partial suspension of operations by order of a governmental authority due to COVID-19, or (2) a significant decline in gross receipts. The Company recognized $1,178,644 and $2,651,999 of ERC as a contra-expense in the condensed consolidated and combined statements of operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2021, respectively.
Acquisition
On August 30, 2021, the Company purchased all of the outstanding membership interests in Pie Squared Holdings pursuant to a Unit Purchase Agreement (Purchase Agreement). Pie Squared Holdings, directly and through its four wholly owned subsidiaries, owns, operates and franchises pizza restaurants operating under the tradename PizzaRev. The PizzaRev stores consist of three company owned stores and nine franchised locations. The purchase price is an 8% secured, convertible promissory note (Note) with a face value of $1,000,000 and a fair value of $1,194,000. Transaction costs of $190,000 were incurred in connection with the acquisition and charged to selling, general and administrative expenses in the condensed consolidated statement of operations and comprehensive income (loss) for the three-month and nine- month periods ended September 30, 2021.
Restaurant Revitalization Fund
The American Rescue Plan Act established the Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF) to provide funding to help restaurants and other eligible businesses keep their doors open. This program will provide restaurants with funding equal to their pandemic-related revenue loss up to $10 million per business and no more than $5 million per physical location. The Company recognized $51,187 of RRF as a contra-expense in the condensed consolidated and combined statements of operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2021, respectively.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS FOR THE THREE AND NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2021 COMPARED TO THE THREE AND NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2020
Our results of operations are summarized below:
| Three Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||
| September 30, 2021 | September 30, 2020 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Amount | % of Revenue* | Amount | % of Revenue* | % Change | ||||||||||||||||
| Restaurant sales, net | $ | 6,106,261 | 96.0 | % | $ | 4,509,082 | 95.9 | % | 35.4 | % | ||||||||||
| Gaming income, net | 136,135 | 2.2 | % | 107,403 | 2.3 | % | 26.8 | % | ||||||||||||
| Franchise income | 116,179 | 1.8 | % | 85,666 | 1.8 | % | 35.6 | % | ||||||||||||
| Total revenue | 6,358,575 | 4,702,151 | ||||||||||||||||||
| Expenses | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Restaurant cost of sales | 2,031,666 | 33.2 | % | 1,498,922 | 33.2 | % | 35.5 | % | ||||||||||||
| Restaurant operating expenses | 3,674,755 | 60.2 | % | 3,448,843 | 76.5 | % | 6.6 | % | ||||||||||||
| General and administrative expenses | 1,394,766 | 21.9 | % | 1,255,918 | 26.7 | % | 11.1 | % | ||||||||||||
| Asset impairment charge | — | — | % | 1,136,129 | 24.2 | % | (100.0 | )% | ||||||||||||
| Depreciation and amortization | 350,599 | 5.5 | % | 277,999 | 5.9 | % | 26.1 | % | ||||||||||||
| Employee retention credit | (1,229,831 | ) | (19.3 | )% | — | — | % | 100 .0% | ||||||||||||
| Total expenses | 6,221,955 | 97.9 | % | 7,617,811 | 162.0 | % | (18.3 | )% | ||||||||||||
| Operating income (loss) | 136,620 | (2,915,660 | ) | |||||||||||||||||
| Other (expense) income: | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Interest expense | (165,775 | ) | (2.6 | )% | (177,420 | ) | (3.8 | )% | (6.6 | )% | ||||||||||
| Change in fair value of derivative liabilities | — | — | % | (5,841,517 | ) | (124.2 | )% | (100.0 | )% | |||||||||||
| Change in fair value of investment | (100,422 | ) | (1.6 | )% | (199,154 | ) | (4.2 | )% | (49.6 | )% | ||||||||||
| Debt extinguishment expense | — | — | % | — | — | % | — | % | ||||||||||||
| Other income (expense) | 18,203 | 0.3 | % | (25,404 | ) | (0.5 | )% | (171.7 | )% | |||||||||||
| Gain on extinguished lease liabilities | 66,821 | 1.0 | % | — | — | % | 100 | % | ||||||||||||
| Total other income (expense) | (181,173 | ) | (6,243,495 | ) | ||||||||||||||||
| Net loss before income taxes | (44,553 | ) | (9,159,155 | ) | ||||||||||||||||
| Income tax expense | (44,637 | ) | (0.7 | )% | (28,473 | ) | (0.6 | )% | 56.8 | % | ||||||||||
| Consolidated net loss | $ | (89,190 | ) | $ | (9,187,628 | ) | ||||||||||||||
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| Nine Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||
| September 30, 2021 | September 30, 2020 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Amount | % of Revenue* | Amount | % of Revenue* | % Change | ||||||||||||||||
| Restaurant sales, net | $ | 15,288,320 | 96.1 | % | $ | 13,881,380 | 97.0 | % | 10.1 | % | ||||||||||
| Gaming income, net | 304,173 | 1.9 | % | 236,615 | 1.7 | % | 28.6 | % | ||||||||||||
| Franchise income | 314,603 | 2.0 | % | 183,864 | 1.3 | % | 71.1 | % | ||||||||||||
| Total revenue | 15,907,096 | 14,301,859 | ||||||||||||||||||
| Expenses | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Restaurant cost of sales | 4,782,780 | 31.3 | % | 4,458,983 | 32.1 | % | 7.3 | % | ||||||||||||
| Restaurant operating expenses | 10,100,284 | 66.1 | % | 10,322,644 | 74.4 | % | (2.2 | )% | ||||||||||||
| Restaurant pre-opening and closing expenses | — | 20,730 | 0.1 | % | (100.0 | )% | ||||||||||||||
| General and administrative expenses | 3,755,866 | 23.6 | % | 3,891,739 | 27.2 | % | (3.5 | )% | ||||||||||||
| Asset impairment charge | 1,287,579 | 8.1 | % | 1,288,599 | 9.0 | % | (0.1 | )% | ||||||||||||
| Depreciation and amortization | 1,080,604 | 6.8 | % | 1,109,608 | 7.8 | % | (2.6 | )% | ||||||||||||
| Employee retention credit | (2,703,186 | ) | (17.0 | )% | — | — | % | 100 | % | |||||||||||
| Total expenses | 18,303,927 | 115.1 | % | 21,092,303 | 147.5 | % | (13.2 | )% | ||||||||||||
| Operating loss | (2,396,831 | ) | (6,790,444 | ) | ||||||||||||||||
| Other (expense) income: | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Interest expense | (481,706 | ) | (3.0 | )% | (499,870 | ) | (3.5 | )% | (3.6 | )% | ||||||||||
| Change in fair value of derivative liabilities | 118,664 | 0.7 | % | 300,000 | 2.1 | % | (60.4 | )% | ||||||||||||
| Change in fair value of investment | (220,882 | ) | (1.4 | )% | (1,152,185 | ) | (8.1 | )% | (80.8 | )% | ||||||||||
| Debt extinguishment expense | — | — | % | (11,808,111 | ) | (82.6 | )% | (100.0 | )% | |||||||||||
| Other income (expense) | 164,761 | 1.0 | % | 150,904 | 1.1 | % | 9.2 | % | ||||||||||||
| Gain on extinguished lease liabilities | 385,340 | 2.4 | % | — | — | % | 100 | % | ||||||||||||
| Total other income (expense) | (33,823 | ) | (13,009,262 | ) | ||||||||||||||||
| Net loss before income taxes | (2,430,654 | ) | (19,799,706 | ) | ||||||||||||||||
| Income tax expense | (44,637 | ) | (0.3 | )% | (32,149 | ) | (0.2 | )% | 38.8 | % | ||||||||||
| Consolidated net loss | $ | (2,475,291 | ) | $ | (19,831,855 | ) | ||||||||||||||
* Restaurant cost of sales, operating expenses and closing expense percentages are based on restaurant sales, net. Other percentages are based on total revenue.
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Revenue
Total revenue increased to $6.4 million for the three months ended September 30, 2021 from $4.7 million for the three months ended September 30, 2020.
| Three Months Ended September 30, 2021 | Nine Months Ended September 30, 2021 | |||||||||||||||
| Amount | % of Revenue* | Amount | % of Revenue* | |||||||||||||
| Restaurant sales, net | 6,106,261 | 96.0 | % | 15,288,320 | 96.1 | % | ||||||||||
| Gaming income, net | 136,135 | 2.2 | % | 304,173 | 1.9 | % | ||||||||||
| Franchise income | 116,179 | 1.8 | % | 314,603 | 2.0 | % | ||||||||||
| Total revenue | 6,358,575 | 100 | % | 15,907,096 | 100 | % | ||||||||||
| Three Months Ended September 30, 2020 | Nine Months Ended September 30, 2020 | |||||||||||||||
| Amount | % of Revenue* | Amount | % of Revenue* | |||||||||||||
| Restaurant sales, net | $ | 4,509,082 | 95.9 | % | $ | 13,881,380 | 97.0 | % | ||||||||
| Gaming income, net | 107,403 | 2.3 | % | 236,615 | 1.7 | % | ||||||||||
| Franchise income | 85,666 | 1.8 | % | 183,864 | 1.3 | % | ||||||||||
| Total revenue | $ | 4,702,151 | 100 | % | $ | 14,301,859 | 100 | % | ||||||||
| ● | Revenue from restaurant sales increased 35.4% to $6.1 million for the three months ended September 30, 2021, compared to $4.5 million for the three months ended September 30, 2020. The primary reasons for the increase were due to increased occupancy and declining hesitancy from the public to dine in public locations as a result of the rebound from the COVID-19 pandemic. Revenue from restaurant sales increased 10.1% to $15.3 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2021, compared to $13.9 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2020.. No restaurants closed during the three months ended September 30, 2021, and the revenue impact from the acquisition of Pie Squared in August 2021 was not material. | |
| ● | Gaming income increased 26.8% to $0.1 million for the three months ended September 30, 2021 compared to $0.1 million for the three months ended September 30, 2020. Gaming income increased 28.6% to $0.3 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2021 compared to $0.2 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2020. The primary reason for this increase was due the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic recovery. | |
| ● | Franchise Income increased 35.6% to $0.1 million for the three months ended September 30, 2021, compared to $86,000 during the three months ended September 30, 2020. Franchise Income increased 71.1% to $0.3 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2021, compared to $0.2 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2020. The primary reason for this increase was due to our franchise stores recovering from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic during the second and third quarter of 2021 based on declining hesitancy from the public to dine in public locations. |
Restaurant cost of sales
Restaurant cost of sales increased to $2.0 million for the three months ended September 30, 2021 from $1.5 million for the three months ended September 30, 2020. There was no change in the percent of restaurant sales between for the three months ended September 30, 2021 and the three months ended September 30, 2020. The overall decrease in cost of sales was due to the 35.5% increase in restaurant revenue to $6.1 million for the three months ended September 30, 2021 compared to $4.5 million for the three months ended September 30, 2020.
Restaurant cost of sales increased to $4.8 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2021 from $4.5 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2020. The percent of restaurant sales decreased to 31.3% for the nine months ended September 30, 2021 from 32.1% for the nine months ended September 30, 2020. The overall increase in cost of sales was due to the 10.1% increase in restaurant revenue to $15.3 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2021 compared to $13.9 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2020.
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Restaurant operating expenses
Restaurant operating expenses increased to $3.7 million for the three months ended September 30, 2021 from $3.5 million for the three months ended September 30, 2020. The overall percentage of restaurant operating expenses dropped from 76.5% in 2020 to 60.2% in 2021 and was driven by the overall increase of revenue as described in the revenue section above, and the corresponding adjustment of labor at the store level and tighter controls of store level operating expenses.
Restaurant operating expenses decreased to $10.1 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2021 from $10.3 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2020. The overall decrease of restaurant operating expenses was driven by the overall improvement in cost of goods sold and direct labor.
Restaurant pre-opening and closing expenses
There were no restaurant pre-opening and closing expenses for the three months ended September 30, 2021 and 2020 as no stores were opened or closed during the three months ended September 30, 2021 and 2020. There were no restaurant pre-opening and closing expenses for the nine months ended September 30, 2021 compared with approximately $21,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2020. The decrease is primarily due to limited restaurant openings and closings in the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and one closing during the nine months ended September 30, 2021. In September 2021, we had three PizzaRev stores and LBB University of Oregon that we were opening but had not incurred any pre-opening expenses.
General and administrative expense (“G&A”)
G&A expenses decreased to $3.7 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2021, from $3.9 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2020. During the nine months ended September 30, 2021, audit, legal and professional services increased by $0.2 million due to the first year-end audit subsequent to being spun-off from Chanticleer, professional services and professional fees related to lease related legal and accounting matters. This increase was offset by a $0.1 million decrease in shareholder services and fees due to spin-off from Chanticleer and a decrease of $0.3 million in advertising, insurance and other expenses due to less need during the covid pandemic There was no significant change in G&A expenses during the three months ended September 30, 2021 when compared to the three months ended September 30, 2020. Significant components of G&A are summarized as follows:
| Three Months Ended September 30, | Nine Months Ended September 30, | |||||||||||||||
| 2021 | 2020 | 2021 | 2020 | |||||||||||||
| Audit, legal and other professional services | $ | 641,113 | $ | 615,098 | $ | 1,863,580 | $ | 1,722,687 | ||||||||
| Salary and benefits | 587,358 | 455,540 | 1,575,119 | 1,459,628 | ||||||||||||
| Advertising, Insurance and other | 141,674 | 225,131 | 259,415 | 558,563 | ||||||||||||
| Shareholder services and fees | 3,246 | (51,150 | ) | 10,885 | 116,562 | |||||||||||
| Travel and entertainment | 21,375 | 11,299 | 46,867 | 34,299 | ||||||||||||
| Total G&A Expenses | $ | 1,394,766 | $ | 1,255,918 | $ | 3,755,866 | $ | 3,891,739 | ||||||||
Asset impairment charges
Asset impairment charges of $1.3 million were recorded during the nine months ended September 30, 2021. The impairment was comprised of $0.3 million, $0.7 million and $0.3 million of impairment on property and equipment, right of use asset and intangible assets, respectively, and was due to ongoing cash flow implications resulting from the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. These charges were recorded in the first quarter of 2021 and no asset impairment charges were recorded during the three months ended September 30, 2021 as store operating performance began to improve and due to prior impairment taken on underperforming and closed locations.
During the nine months ended September 30, 2020, the Company impaired certain assets in connection with the closure of three locations. In addition, in the 2020 period, the Company recorded an impairment on tradenames/trademarks of $246,751, property and equipment of $685,333 and right of use asset of $343,141 primarily due to the lower level of cash flow at the store level due to the impact of COVID-19 on operations.
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Depreciation and amortization
Depreciation and amortization expense was $350,599 and $1,080,604 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2021, respectively, compared to $277,999 and $1,109,608 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020, respectively.
Other (expense) income
Interest expense for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2021 of $165,775 and $481,706 was comparable to the comparative periods in 2020 of $177,420 and $499,870.
During the nine months ended September 30, 2021 the change in fair value of derivative liabilities was a gain of $118,664, which was related to the True-Up Payment derivative. Derivative liabilities are marked to market on a quarterly basis and fluctuation in value are reflective of the fair market value at the point in time that the instruments are measured. During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020 the change in fair value of derivative liabilities and warrants was a loss of $5.8 million and a gain of $0.3 million, respectively. The income in the three months ended September 30, 2020 was primarily due to a decrease in the Company’s stock price at September 30, 2020 compared to June 30, 2020, thus driving a decrease in the value of the derivative instruments. The True-Up Payment was settled in July 2021 with a payment of $66,136.
On April 1, 2020, the Company exchanged the then existing 8% non-convertible notes for 10% convertible notes. Warrants to purchase common stock were also issued in connection with the issuance of the new notes. The Company recorded a $11.8 million loss on the extinguishment of the 8% notes based on the difference in the carrying value of the old notes and the fair value of the new notes and warrants issued.
In connection with the Merger, the Company obtained warrants to purchase 186,101 shares of Sonnet at $0.001 per share. The warrants were exercised in 2020 and common stock is now held. The share price of Sonnet has decreased since the Merger and a loss on investment of $0.1 million and $0.2 million was recognized for the three- and nine-month periods ended September 30, 2021, respectively. Additionally, shares were sold in 2021 and the Company received proceeds of $0.1 million. The Company recognized a loss of $0.2 million during the three months ended September 30, 2020 and a loss on investment of $1.1 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2020. This common stock will continue to be recorded at fair value until security is sold.
During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2021, the Company recognized gains of $0.1 million and $0.4 million on the extinguishment of lease liabilities. No such gains were recorded in the comparable 2020 periods.
STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS FOR THE NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2021 COMPARED TO THE NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2020
| Nine Months Ended | ||||||||
| September 30, 2021 | September 30, 2020 | |||||||
| Net cash used in operating activities | $ | (2,813,998 | ) | $ | (4,892,561 | ) | ||
| Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities | 2,157,275 | (29,821 | ) | |||||
| Net cash provided by financing activities | 1,901,157 | 7,247,506 | ||||||
| Effect of foreign currency exchange rates | (12,615 | ) | (14,496 | ) | ||||
| $ | 1,231,819 | $ | 2,310,628 | |||||
Cash used in operating activities was approximately $2.8 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2021. The use of cash in the nine months ended September 30, 2021 was primarily attributable to the net loss of $2.5 million and non-cash income of $0.4 million from a gain on extinguished lease liabilities and a fair value adjustment to a derivative of $0.1 million offset by non-cash charges to operations of $1.3 million for asset impairments and $1.5 million for depreciation and amortization. Additionally, the Company recognized a loss on investments of $0.2 million and non-cash expense of $0.1 million related to the amortization of debt discounts. The balance of the change in cash flows from operating activities was related to net movements in asset and liability accounts.
Cash used in operating activities was approximately $4.9 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2020. This use of cash was primarily driven by the net loss incurred of $19.8 million offset by non-cash charges to operations of $14.9 million. The non-cash charges in 2020 consist primarily of loss on debt extinguishment of $11.8 million, loss on investments of $1.2 million, asset impairment charges of $1.3 million and depreciation and amortization of property and equipment, intangible assets and right-of-use assets totaling $2.3 million. Additionally, in 2020 net assets and liabilities were reduced by $1.6 million, primarily from a reduction in operating lease liabilities. The Company obtained cash of $6.0 million from the Merger and used a portion to reduce its liabilities in 2020.
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Cash provided by investing activities during the nine months ended September 30, 2021 was primarily related to cash and restricted cash acquired in connection with the acquisition of Pie Squared Holdings.
Cash provided by financing activities for the nine months ended September 30, 2021 was approximately $1.9 million compared to cash provided by financing activities of approximately $7.2 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2020. Cash provided by financing activities during 2021 was primarily related to proceeds of $2.0 million PPP loan. The primary drivers of the cash provided by financing activities during 2020 were proceeds from the bridge preferred equity investment, the exercise of warrants, and the Merger Consideration received of $6.0 million.
LIQUIDITY, CAPITAL RESOURCES AND GOING CONCERN
Liquidity, Capital Resources and Going Concern
As of September 30, 2021, our cash balance was $3.0 million, of which $1.9 million was restricted cash, our working capital deficiency was $16.0 million and we had significant near-term commitments and contractual obligations. The level of additional cash needed to fund operations and our ability to conduct business for the next 12 months will be influenced primarily by the following factors:
| ● | our eligibility to access the capital and debt markets to satisfy current obligations and operate the business; | |
| ● | our ability to qualify for and utilize financial stimulus programs available through federal and state government programs; | |
| ● | our ability to refinance or otherwise extend maturities of current debt obligations; | |
| ● | our ability to manage our operating expenses and maintain gross margins; | |
| ● | popularity of and demand for our fast-casual dining concepts; and | |
| ● | general economic conditions and changes in consumer discretionary income. |
We have typically funded our operating costs, acquisition activities, working capital requirements and capital expenditures with proceeds from the issuances of our common stock and other financing arrangements, including convertible debt, lines of credit, notes payable, capital leases, and other forms of external financing.
On March 10, 2020, the World Health Organization characterized the novel COVID-19 virus as a global pandemic. The COVID-19 outbreak in the United States has resulted in a significant impact throughout the hospitality industry that have continued through September 30, 2021. The Company has been impacted due to restrictions placed by state and local governments that caused temporary restaurant closures or significantly reduced the Company’s ability to operate, restricting some of the Company’s restaurants to take-out only. It is difficult to estimate the length or severity of this outbreak; however, the Company has made operational changes, as needed, to reduce the impact.
As Amergent executes its business plan over the next 12 months, it intends to carefully monitor the impact of its working capital needs and cash balances relative to the availability of cost-effective debt and equity financing. In the event that capital is not available, Amergent may then have to scale back or freeze its operations plans, sell assets on less than favorable terms, reduce expenses, and/or curtail future acquisition plans to manage its liquidity and capital resources.
The Company’s current operating losses, combined with its working capital deficit and uncertainties regarding the impact of COVID-19, raise substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern.
In addition, our business is subject to additional risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, those described in Item 1A. “Risk Factors.”
The consolidated and combined financial statements do not include any adjustments relating to the recoverability and classification of recorded asset amounts and classification of liabilities that might be necessary should the Company be unable to continue as a going concern.
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ITEM 3: QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
Not applicable.
Item 4: Controls and Procedures
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
We evaluated, under the supervision and with the participation of the principal executive officer and principal financial officer, the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (“Exchange Act”)) as of September 30, 2021, the end of the period covered by this Report. Based on this evaluation, our Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer (principal executive officer) and our Chief Financial Officer (principal financial officer) have concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were not effective at the reasonable assurance level at September 30, 2021 because of the material weakness in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting that existed at December 31, 2020 that has not been fully remediated by the end of the three and nine month periods ended September 30, 2021.
Disclosure controls and procedures are designed to provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act (i) is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms, and (ii) is accumulated and communicated to management, including the principal executive officer and principal financial officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosures. In designing and evaluating the disclosure controls and procedures, management recognizes that any controls and procedures, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable assurance of achieving the desired control objectives. Due to the inherent limitations of control systems, not all misstatements may be detected. These inherent limitations include the realities that judgments in decision-making can be faulty and that breakdowns can occur because of a simple error or mistake. Additionally, controls can be circumvented by the individual acts of some persons, by collusion of two or more people, or by management override of the control. Controls and procedures can only provide reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the above objectives have been met.
Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting
Other than the material weakness and remediation activities discussed below, there were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting during the three months ended September 30, 2021 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.
Material Weakness in Internal Control over Financial Reporting
Material Weaknesses. A material weakness is a control deficiency, or a combination of control deficiencies, in internal control over financial reporting, such that there is a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement of our annual or interim financial statements will not be prevented or detected on a timely basis.
Management identified the following deficiency in its internal control over financial reporting:
| ● | We identified a deficiency related to our financial close process including maintaining a sufficient complement of personnel commensurate with our accounting and financial reporting requirements as well as development and extension of controls over the recording of journal entries, accounting for business combinations, contingencies and proper cut-off of accounts payable and accrued expenses at period end. |
Management determined that the deficiency could potentially result in a material misstatement of the consolidated and combined financial statements in a future annual or interim period that would not be prevented or detected. Therefore, the deficiency constitutes a material weakness in internal control.
Remediation Plans
The Company is committed to remediating its material weaknesses as promptly as possible. Implementation of the Company’s remediation plans has commenced and is being overseen by the audit committee. As part of its remediation efforts, the Company hired two third party accounting firms with technical accounting experience during 2020 to support management to ensure accurate reporting. Further, the Company is in the process of designing and implementing procedures for control over the segregation of duties for the preparation of, approval and recording of journal entries and procedure to obtain the proper cut-off of accounts payable and accrued expenses in a period. However, there can be no assurance as to when these material weaknesses will be remediated or that additional material weaknesses will not arise in the future. Even effective internal control can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to the preparation and fair presentation of financial statements. Any failure to remediate the material weaknesses, or the development of new material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting, could result in material misstatements in our financial statements, which in turn could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and the trading price of our common stock and we could fail to meet our financial reporting obligations.
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part II – Other information
ITEM 1: LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
Various subsidiaries of Amergent are delinquent in payment of payroll taxes to taxing authorities. As of September 30, 2021, approximately $2.0 million of employee and employer taxes (including estimated penalties and interest) was accrued but not remitted in years prior to 2019 to certain taxing authorities by certain of these subsidiaries for cash compensation paid. As a result, these subsidiaries are liable for such payroll taxes. These subsidiaries have received warnings and demands from the taxing authorities and management is prioritizing and working with the taxing authorities to make these payments in order to avoid further penalties and interest. Failure to remit these payments promptly could result in increased penalty fees.
During 2020 and 2021 the Company was in arrears on rent due on several of its leases as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, the Company has pending litigation related to 8 sites of which 5 have permanently closed. The outcome of this litigation could result in the permanent closure of additional restaurant locations as well as the possibility of the Company being required to pay interest and damages, modify certain leases on unfavorable terms and could result in material impairments to the Company’s assets.
The Company entered into a promissory note to repay a contractor for the build-out of a new Little Big Burger location. The note has a balance of $348,269, and a stated interest rate of 12% per year. In connection with and prior to the Merger and Spin-Off, on April 1, 2020, this note was assumed by Amergent. The Company is currently in default on this loan and a writ of garnishment was ordered against the Company in 2020 for approximately $445,000.
From time to time, the Company may be involved in other legal proceedings and claims that have arisen in the ordinary course of business are generally covered by insurance. As of September 30, 2021, the Company does not expect the amount of ultimate liability with respect to these matters to be material to the Company’s financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
ITEM 1A: RISK FACTORS
We have identified a material weakness in our internal control and procedures and internal control over financial reporting. If not remediated, our failure to establish and maintain effective disclosure controls and procedures and internal control over financial reporting could result in material misstatements in our financial statements and a failure to meet our reporting and financial obligations, each of which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and the trading price of our common stock.
Maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and effective disclosure controls and procedures are necessary for us to produce reliable financial statements. We have re-evaluated our internal control over financial reporting and our disclosure controls and procedures and concluded that they were not effective as of September 30, 2021 and we concluded there was a material weakness in the design of our internal control over financial reporting.
A material weakness is defined as a deficiency, or a combination of deficiencies, in internal control over financial reporting such that there is a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement of our annual or interim financial statements will not be prevented or detected on a timely basis.
We identified a deficiency related to our financial close process including maintaining a sufficient compliment of personnel commensurate with our accounting and financial reporting requirements, as well as development and extension of controls over the recording of journal entries, accounting for business combinations, contingencies and proper cutoff of accounts payable and accrued expenses at period end and in assessing agreements and the accounting treatment required to record the agreements correctly in the financial records.
Management determined that the deficiency could potentially result in a material misstatement of the consolidated and combined financial statements in a future annual or interim period that would not be prevented or detected. Therefore, the deficiency constitutes a material weakness in internal control.
Remediation Plans
We initiated several steps to evaluate and implement measures designed to improve our internal control over financial reporting in order to remediate the control deficiencies noted above, including recruitment of an accounting consultant and seeking outside advice from other third party consultants to assist in improving the Company’s internal control, simplify its reporting processes and reduced the risk of undetected errors. In June 2020, the Company hired an accounting consultant that has appropriate expertise in accounting and reporting under U.S. GAAP and SEC regulations and has allowed the Company to be better aligned with segregation of duties. With the hiring of this consultant, the Company will be instituting monthly and quarterly meetings to identify significant, infrequent and unusual transactions as well as ensure timely reporting. Additionally, in September 2020 the Company engaged a third-party accounting and advisory firm to assist with, among other areas, the analysis of complex, infrequent and unusual transactions as well as provide valuation services to the Company.
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The Chief Financial Officer has initiated a preliminary assessment of management’s internal control over financial reporting in accordance with the 2013 integrated framework, as prescribed by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission, or COSO.
Inherent Limitations on Effectiveness of Controls
An effective internal control system, no matter how well designed, has inherent limitations, including the possibility of human error or overriding of controls, and, therefore, can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to reliable financial reporting. Because of its inherent limitations, our internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect all misstatements, including the possibility of human error, the circumvention or overriding of controls, or fraud. Effective internal control can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to the preparation and fair presentation of financial statements.
We may not be entitled to forgiveness of our recently received Paycheck Protection Program Loans, and our application for the Paycheck Protection Program Loans could in the future be determined to have been impermissible.
On March 27, 2020, Congress passed “The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act” (CARES Act), which included the “Paycheck Protection Program” (PPP) for small businesses. On April 27, 2020, Amergent received a PPP loan of $2.1 million. Due to the Spin-Off and Merger, Amergent was not publicly traded at the time of the loan application or funding. The note bears interest at 1% per year, matures in April 2022, and requires monthly interest and principal payments of approximately $119,000 beginning in November 2020 and through maturity.
On February 25, 2021, the Company received a second loan of $2.0 million under the PPP. Amergent is not listed on a national securities exchange. The note bears interest at 1% per year, matures on February 25, 2026, and requires monthly principal and interest payments of approximately $44,660 beginning June 25, 2022 through maturity. The loan may be forgiven if certain criteria are met. The currently issued guidelines of the program allow for the loan proceeds to be forgiven if certain requirements are met. Any loan proceeds not forgiven will be repaid in full. Amergent applied for forgiveness of the first loan and the application is under review by the government agency administering the PPP. No assurance can be given as to the amount, if any, of forgiveness. The application for forgiveness allowed the Company to defer the timing of repayment until the forgiveness assessment is completed.
We will be required to repay any portion of the outstanding principal that is not forgiven, along with accrued interest, and we cannot provide any assurance that we will be eligible for loan forgiveness, that we will apply for forgiveness, or that any amount of the PPP Loans will ultimately be forgiven by the SBA. In order to apply for the PPP Loans, we were required to certify, among other things, that the current economic uncertainty made the PPP Loans request necessary to support our ongoing operations. We made this certification in good faith after analyzing, among other things, the maintenance of our workforce, our need for additional funding to continue operations, and our ability to access alternative forms of capital in the current market environment to offset the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Following this analysis, we believe that we satisfied all eligibility criteria for the PPP Loans, and that our receipt of the PPP Loans is consistent with the broad objectives of the CARES Act. The certification described above is subject to interpretation. On April 23, 2020, the SBA issued guidance stating that it is unlikely that a public company with substantial market value and access to capital markets will be able to make the required certification in good faith. The lack of clarity regarding loan eligibility under the Paycheck Protection Program has resulted in significant media coverage and controversy with respect to public companies applying for and receiving loans. If, despite our good-faith belief that given our circumstances we satisfied all eligible requirements for the PPP Loans, we are later determined to have not been in compliance with these requirements or it is otherwise determined that we were ineligible to receive the PPP Loans, we may be required to repay the PPP Loans in their entirety and/or be subject to additional penalties. Should we be audited or reviewed by federal or state regulatory authorities as a result of filing an application for forgiveness of the PPP Loans or otherwise, such audit or review could result in the diversion of management’s time and attention and the incurrence of additional costs. Any of these events could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.
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We may have to repay the $10 million of grant proceeds received from the Restaurant Revitalization Fund.
If it is determined that Pie Square Holdings obtained the grant improperly or the disbursement of such grant monies were not “eligible uses” then we would be responsible for the ramifications of such actions, including repayment of the approximately $10 million of grant monies, among other items. An assessment of the sellers’ indemnification agreement signed under the acquisition agreement will also be considered in our analysis; however, if it is determined that a contingency exists as of the acquisition date and it is probable of occurrence, then the preliminary purchase price will be revised, and the impact could be material.
The American Rescue Plan Act established the Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF) to provide funding to help restaurants and other eligible businesses keep their doors open. This program will provide restaurants with funding equal to their pandemic-related revenue loss up to $10 million per business and no more than $5 million per physical location. Recipients are not required to repay the funding as long as funds are used for eligible uses no later than March 11, 2023.
In 2021, and prior to the acquisition, Pie Square Holdings received a grant under the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF) for approximately $10 million. The proceeds received were mainly used to repay existing debt and to also pay operating expenses. The unused funds received under the RRF at closing of $2.0 million were placed into escrow for the benefit of the Company for working capital to be used solely in the operations of the acquired business. The Company will periodically submit to the escrow agent the planned uses of these funds, and the sellers have the right to review the planned uses to determine whether, in the sellers’ opinion, the planned uses meet the criteria of “eligible uses” under the RRF. If determined to not meet such criteria, then the escrow agent will not distribute that portion of the request.
As the Company acquired all the outstanding membership interests in Pie Square Holdings, the Company assumed all the rights and obligations of Pie Square Holdings that arose from transactions of Pie Square Holdings prior to the sale event, both stated rights and obligations as well as those that are contingent. As noted above, Pie Square Holdings applied for and received an approximately $10 million grant from the U.S. Business Administration under the RRF and used approximately $8 million to repay existing debt of Pie Square Holdings and to fund some of its operating expenses. Under the RRF there is a requirement that the grant monies be for “eligible uses.” The Company, through the structure of the acquisition, is now responsible that the grant proceeds were, in fact, properly obtained and disbursed for “eligible uses.” If it is determined that Pie Square Holdings obtained the grant improperly or the disbursement of such grant monies were not “eligible uses” then the Company would be responsible for the ramifications of such actions, including repayment of the approximately $10 million of grant monies, among other items. Management is in the process of completing its analysis of this contingency, which includes consultation with outside legal counsel, and expects to complete such analysis prior to the filing of the 2021 annual financial statements. An assessment of the sellers’ indemnification agreement signed under the acquisition agreement will also be considered in the Company’s analysis. If it is determined that a contingency exists as of the acquisition date and it is probable of occurrence, then the preliminary purchase price allocation noted above will be revised, and the impact could be material.
Various subsidiaries of the Company are delinquent in payment of payroll taxes to taxing authorities prior to the previous year when previous management was in place, and a failure to remit these payments promptly or through settlements could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
As of September 30, 2021, approximately $2.0 million of employee and employer taxes (including estimated penalties and interest) has been accrued but not remitted in years prior to 2019 to certain taxing authorities by certain subsidiaries of the Company for cash compensation paid. As a result, these subsidiaries of the Company are liable for such payroll taxes. These various subsidiaries of the Company have received warnings and demands from the taxing authorities and management is prioritizing and working with the taxing authorities to make these payments in order to avoid further penalties and interest. Failure to remit these payments promptly could result in increased penalty fees and have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations.
Defaults and closures under restaurant leases as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic could result in material impairments to the Company’s assets.
If an existing or future restaurant is not profitable, and we decide to close it, we may nonetheless be committed to perform our obligations under the applicable lease including, among other things, paying the base rent for the balance of the lease term. In addition, as each of our leases expires, we may fail to negotiate renewals, either on commercially acceptable terms or at all, which could cause us to pay increased occupancy costs or to close restaurants in desirable locations. These potential increased occupancy costs and closed restaurants could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
We are not contractually obligated to guarantee leasing arrangements between franchisees and their landlords.
During 2020 and 2021 the Company was in arrears on rent due on several of its leases as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Company had lease liabilities of approximately $3.1 million related to abandoned leases at September 30, 2021. As a result, the Company has pending litigation related to 8 sites of which 5 have permanently closed. The outcome of this litigation could result in the permanent closure of additional restaurant locations as well as the possibility of the Company being required to pay interest and damages, modify certain leases on unfavorable terms and could result in material impairments to the Company’s assets.
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During the nine months ended September 30, 2021 $0.4 million of lease liabilities were derecognized due to the Company negotiating the cancellation of its obligations under certain lease agreements. The cancellations resulted from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Pandemics or disease outbreaks, such as the recent outbreak of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19 virus), have disrupted, and may continue to disrupt, our business, and have materially affected our operations and results of operations.
Pandemics or disease outbreaks such as the novel coronavirus (COVID-19 virus) have and may continue to have a negative impact on customer traffic at our restaurants, may make it more difficult to staff our restaurants and, in more severe cases, may cause a temporary inability to obtain supplies and/or increase to commodity costs and have caused closures of affected restaurants, sometimes for prolonged periods of time. We have temporarily shifted to a “to-go” only operating model, suspending sit-down dining. We have also implemented closures, modified hours or reductions in onsite staff, resulting in cancelled shifts for some of our employees. COVID-19 may also materially adversely affect our ability to implement our growth plans, including delays in construction of new restaurants, or adversely impact our overall ability to successfully execute our plans to enter into new markets. These changes have negatively impacted our results of operations, and these and any additional changes may materially adversely affect our business or results of operations in the future, and may impact our liquidity or financial condition, particularly if these changes are in place for a significant amount of time. In addition, our operations could be further disrupted if any of our employees or employees of our business partners were suspected of having contracted COVID19 or other illnesses since this could require us or our business partners to quarantine some or all such employees or close and disinfect our impacted restaurant facilities. If a significant percentage of our workforce or the workforce of our business partners are unable to work, including because of illness or travel or government restrictions in connection with pandemics or disease outbreaks, our operations may be negatively impacted, potentially materially adversely affecting our business, liquidity, financial condition or results of operations. Furthermore, such viruses may be transmitted through human contact, and the risk of contracting viruses could continue to cause employees or guests to avoid gathering in public places, which has had, and could further have, adverse effects on our restaurant guest traffic or the ability to adequately staff restaurants, in addition to the measures we have already taken with respect to shifting to a “to-go” only operating model. We could also be adversely affected if government authorities continue to impose restrictions on public gatherings, human interactions, operations of restaurants or mandatory closures, seek voluntary closures, restrict hours of operations or impose curfews, restrict the import or export of products or if suppliers issue mass recalls of products. Additional regulation or requirements with respect to the compensation of our employees could also have an adverse effect on our business. Even if such measures are not implemented and a virus or other disease does not spread significantly within a specific area, the perceived risk of infection or health risk in such area may adversely affect our business, liquidity, financial condition and results of operations. The COVID-19 pandemic and mitigation measures have also had an adverse impact on global economic conditions, which could have an adverse effect on our business and financial condition. Our revenue and operating results may be affected by uncertain or changing economic and market conditions arising in connection with and in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including prolonged periods of high unemployment, inflation, deflation, prolonged weak consumer demand, a decrease in consumer discretionary spending, political instability or other changes. The significance of the operational and financial impact to us will depend on how long and widespread the disruptions caused by COVID-19, and the corresponding response to contain the virus and treat those affected by it, prove to be. Currently, many states and municipalities in the U.S. and abroad have temporarily suspended the operation of restaurants in light of COVID-19.
We have identified a material weakness in our internal control and procedures and internal control over financial reporting. If not remediated, our failure to establish and maintain effective disclosure controls and procedures and internal control over financial reporting could result in material misstatements in our financial statements and a failure to meet our reporting and financial obligations, each of which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and the trading price of our common stock.
Maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and effective disclosure controls and procedures are necessary for us to produce reliable financial statements. We have re-evaluated our internal control over financial reporting and our disclosure controls and procedures and concluded that they were not effective as of September 30, 2021 and we concluded there was a material weakness in the design of our internal control over financial reporting.
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A material weakness is defined as a deficiency, or a combination of deficiencies, in internal control over financial reporting such that there is a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement of our annual or interim financial statements will not be prevented or detected on a timely basis.
The material weakness that we identified related to our financial close process including maintaining a sufficient compliment of personnel commensurate with our accounting and financial reporting requirements as well as development and extension of controls over the recording of journal entries, accounting for business combinations, contingencies and proper cut-off of accounts payable and accrued expenses at period end.
The Company is committed to remediating its material weaknesses as promptly as possible. Implementation of the Company’s remediation plans has commenced and is being overseen by the audit committee. As part of its remediation efforts, the Company hired two third party accounting firms with technical accounting experience during 2020 and a corporate controller with financial reporting experience in 2021 to support management to ensure accurate reporting. Further, the Company is in the process of designing and implementing procedures for control over the segregation of duties for the preparation of, approval and recording of journal entries and procedure to obtain the proper cut-off of accounts payable and accrued expenses in a period. However, there can be no assurance as to when these material weaknesses will be remediated or that additional material weaknesses will not arise in the future. Even effective internal control can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to the preparation and fair presentation of financial statements. Any failure to remediate the material weaknesses, or the development of new material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting, could result in material misstatements in our financial statements, which in turn could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and the trading price of our common stock and we could fail to meet our financial reporting obligations.
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ITEM 2: UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS
None.
ITEM 3: DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES
None.
ITEM 4: MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES
Not applicable.
ITEM 5: OTHER INFORMATION
Series 2 Preferred Stock
Amergent was required to pay the original holder an amount in cash equal to the dollar value of 125% of the stated value of the Series 2 Preferred Stock less the proceeds previously realized by the holder from the sale of all conversion and spin-off shares received by the original holder in Amergent, net of brokerage commissions and any other fees incurred by the holder in connection with the sale of any conversion shares or spin-off shares on April 1, 2021 (which period was extended). The True-Up Payment was settled in July 2021 with a payment of $66,136, and the cash account is no longer subject to restriction for this matter.
During the nine months ended September 30, 2021, the investors converted 637 shares of the Series 2 Preferred Stock into 1,274,000 common shares and sold those common shares in the market. In addition, the investors sold their remaining 150 Series 2 Preferred Stock to other investors. The new investors converted 50 shares of Series 2 Preferred Stock into common stock during May 2021, and 100 Series 2 Preferred Stock remain outstanding at September 30, 2021.
ITEM 6: EXHIBITS
* iXBRL (Inline eXtensible Business Reporting Language) information is furnished and not filed or a part of a registration statement or prospectus for purposes of Sections 11 or 12 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, is deemed not filed for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and otherwise is not subject to liability under these sections.
** Management Compensatory Contract or Arrangement
*** Furnished, not filed.
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SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this Report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized on November 22, 2021.
| AMERGENT HOSPITALITY GROUP INC. | ||
| Date: November 22, 2021 | By: | /s/ Michael D. Pruitt |
| Michael D. Pruitt | ||
| Chief Executive Officer | ||
| (Principal Executive Officer) | ||
| /s/ Steven Hoelscher | ||
| Steven Hoelscher | ||
| Chief Financial Officer | ||
| (Principal Financial Officer) | ||
| 44 |
Exhibit 10.16
Exhibit 10.17
AMENDMENT NO. 2 TO
10% SECURED CONVERTIBLE DEBENTURE
AND WARRANTS
This Amendment No. 2 (the “Amendment”) to 10% Secured Convertible Debenture in the original principal amount of $4,037,889.00 due April 1, 2022 (as amended to date, the “Debenture”), is entered into and effective as of _______, 2021 (the “Effective Date”), by and between Amergent Hospitality Group Inc., a Delaware corporation (the “Company”) and Oz Rey, LLC, a Texas limited liability company (“Holder”).
WHEREAS, the Holder was issued a warrant dated April 1, 2020 to purchase up to 462,600 shares of Common Stock of the Company for an exercise price of $0.50 per share (the “$0.50 Warrant”); and
WHEREAS, the Holder was issued a warrant dated April 1, 2020 to purchase up to 1,100,000 shares of Common Stock of the Company for an exercise price of $0.125 per share (the “$0.125 Warrant” and together with the $0.50 Warrant, the “Warrants”); and
WHEREAS, the Company and Holder have agreed to modifications of the Debenture and the Warrants as set forth herein; and
WHEREAS, the Company and Holder desire that all terms and provisions of the Debenture and the Warrants not specifically modified by this Amendment remain unaltered and in full force and effect as written in the Debenture and the Warrants.
NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of their mutual covenants and obligations contained herein, the Company and Holder, agree as follows:
1. A new Section 10 m) is hereby added to the Debenture to read as follows:
m) Holder’s Conversion Limitations. The Company shall not effect any conversion of this Debenture, and a Holder shall not have the right to convert any portion of this Debenture, pursuant to Section 5 or otherwise, to the extent that after giving effect to such issuance after conversion as set forth on the applicable Notice of Conversion, the Holder (together with the Holder’s Affiliates, and any other Persons acting as a group together with the Holder or any of the Holder’s Affiliates, such other Persons, “Attribution Parties”)), would beneficially own in excess of the Beneficial Ownership Limitation (as defined below). For purposes of the foregoing sentence, the number of shares of Common Stock beneficially owned by the Holder, its Affiliates and Attribution Parties shall include the number of shares of Common Stock issuable upon conversion of this Debenture with respect to which such determination is being made, but shall exclude the number of shares of Common Stock which would be issuable upon (i) conversion of the remaining, unconverted portion of this Debenture beneficially owned by the Holder or any of its Affiliates or Attribution Parties and (ii) exercise or conversion of the unexercised or nonconverted portion of any other securities of the Company (including, without limitation, any other Common Stock Equivalents) subject to a limitation on conversion or exercise analogous to the limitation contained herein beneficially owned by the Holder or any of its Affiliates or Attribution Parties. Except as set forth in the preceding sentence, for purposes of this Section 10(m), beneficial ownership shall be calculated in accordance with Section 13(d) of the Exchange Act and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, it being acknowledged by the Holder that the Company is not representing to the Holder that such calculation is in compliance with Section 13(d) of the Exchange Act and the Holder is solely responsible for any schedules required to be filed in accordance therewith. In addition, a determination as to any group status as contemplated above shall be determined in accordance with Section 13(d) of the Exchange Act and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder. For purposes of this Section 10(m), in determining the number of outstanding shares of Common Stock, a Holder may rely on the number of outstanding shares of Common Stock as reflected in (A) the Company’s most recent periodic or annual report filed with the Commission, as the case may be, (B) a more recent public announcement by the Company or (C) a more recent written notice by the Company or the Transfer Agent setting forth the number of shares of Common Stock outstanding. Upon the written or oral request of a Holder, the Company shall within two Trading Days confirm orally or in writing to the Holder the number of shares of Common Stock then outstanding. In any case, the number of outstanding shares of Common Stock shall be determined after giving effect to the conversion or exercise of securities of the Company, including this Debenture, by the Holder or its Affiliates or Attribution Parties since the date as of which such number of outstanding shares of Common Stock was reported. The “Beneficial Ownership Limitation” shall be 4.99% of the number of shares of the Common Stock outstanding immediately after giving effect to the issuance of shares of Common Stock issuable upon conversion of this Debenture. The Holder, upon notice to the Company, may increase or decrease the Beneficial Ownership Limitation provisions of this Section 10(m) and the provisions of this Section 10(m) shall continue to apply. Any increase in the Beneficial Ownership Limitation will not be effective until the 61st day after such notice is delivered to the Company. The provisions of this paragraph shall be construed and implemented in a manner otherwise than in strict conformity with the terms of this Section 10(m) to correct this paragraph (or any portion hereof) which may be defective or inconsistent with the intended Beneficial Ownership Limitation herein contained or to make changes or supplements necessary or desirable to properly give effect to such limitation. The limitations contained in this paragraph shall apply to a successor holder of this Debenture.
2. A Section 2e) is hereby added to each Warrant, to read as follows:
e) Holder’s Exercise Limitations. The Company shall not effect any exercise of this Warrant, and a Holder shall not have the right to exercise any portion of this Warrant, pursuant to Section 2 or otherwise, to the extent that after giving effect to such issuance after exercise as set forth on the applicable Notice of Exercise, the Holder (together with the Holder’s Affiliates, and any other Persons acting as a group together with the Holder or any of the Holder’s Affiliates, such other Persons, “Attribution Parties”)), would beneficially own in excess of the Beneficial Ownership Limitation (as defined below). For purposes of the foregoing sentence, the number of shares of Common Stock beneficially owned by the Holder, its Affiliates and Attribution Parties shall include the number of shares of Common Stock issuable upon exercise of this Warrant with respect to which such determination is being made, but shall exclude the number of shares of Common Stock which would be issuable upon (i) exercise of the remaining, nonexercised portion of this Warrant beneficially owned by the Holder or any of its Affiliates or Attribution Parties and (ii) exercise or conversion of the unexercised or nonconverted portion of any other securities of the Company (including, without limitation, any other Common Stock Equivalents) subject to a limitation on conversion or exercise analogous to the limitation contained herein beneficially owned by the Holder or any of its Affiliates or Attribution Parties. Except as set forth in the preceding sentence, for purposes of this Section 2(e), beneficial ownership shall be calculated in accordance with Section 13(d) of the Exchange Act and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, it being acknowledged by the Holder that the Company is not representing to the Holder that such calculation is in compliance with Section 13(d) of the Exchange Act and the Holder is solely responsible for any schedules required to be filed in accordance therewith. In addition, a determination as to any group status as contemplated above shall be determined in accordance with Section 13(d) of the Exchange Act and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder. For purposes of this Section 2(e), in determining the number of outstanding shares of Common Stock, a Holder may rely on the number of outstanding shares of Common Stock as reflected in (A) the Company’s most recent periodic or annual report filed with the Commission, as the case may be, (B) a more recent public announcement by the Company or (C) a more recent written notice by the Company or the Transfer Agent setting forth the number of shares of Common Stock outstanding. Upon the written or oral request of a Holder, the Company shall within two Trading Days confirm orally or in writing to the Holder the number of shares of Common Stock then outstanding. In any case, the number of outstanding shares of Common Stock shall be determined after giving effect to the conversion or exercise of securities of the Company, including this Warrant, by the Holder or its Affiliates or Attribution Parties since the date as of which such number of outstanding shares of Common Stock was reported. The “Beneficial Ownership Limitation” shall be 4.99% of the number of shares of the Common Stock outstanding immediately after giving effect to the issuance of shares of Common Stock issuable upon exercise of this Warrant. The Holder, upon notice to the Company, may increase or decrease the Beneficial Ownership Limitation provisions of this Section 2(e) and the provisions of this Section 2(e) shall continue to apply. Any increase in the Beneficial Ownership Limitation will not be effective until the 61st day after such notice is delivered to the Company. The provisions of this paragraph shall be construed and implemented in a manner otherwise than in strict conformity with the terms of this Section 2(e) to correct this paragraph (or any portion hereof) which may be defective or inconsistent with the intended Beneficial Ownership Limitation herein contained or to make changes or supplements necessary or desirable to properly give effect to such limitation. The limitations contained in this paragraph shall apply to a successor holder of this Warrant.
3. No Other Changes. Except as set forth herein, all other terms and conditions contained in the Debenture and the Warrants that are not changed, amended or modified through this Amendment shall remain unchanged and in full force and effect.
[Signature page follows]
| 2 |
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, this Amendment has been duly executed by or on behalf of each of the parties as of the date first written above
| AMERGENT HOSPITALITY GROUP, INC., | ||
| a Delaware corporation | ||
| /s/ Michael D. Pruitt | ||
| Name: | Michael D. Pruitt | |
| Its: | Chief Executive Officer | |
| HOLDER: | ||
| OZ REY, LLC | ||
| a Texas limited liability company | ||
| /s/ Robert S. Hersch | ||
| By: | Robert S. Hersch | |
| Its: | Manager | |
Exhibit 31.1
Certification of the Chief Executive Officer
Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350, AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO SECTION 302 OF
THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002
I, Michael D. Pruitt, certify that:
| 1. | I have reviewed this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (“Report”) for the period ended September 30, 2021 of Amergent Hospitality Group Inc.; |
| 2. | Based on my knowledge, this Report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this Report; |
| 3. | Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this Report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this Report; |
| 4. | The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have: |
| a. | designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this Report is being prepared; | |
| b. | designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles; | |
| c. | evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this Report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this Report based on such evaluation; and | |
| d. | disclosed in this Report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and |
| 5. | The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions): |
| a. | All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and | |
| b. | Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting. |
| Date: November 22, 2021 | /s/ Michael D. Pruitt |
| Michael D. Pruitt | |
| Chief Executive Officer | |
| (Principal Executive Officer) |
Exhibit 31.2
Certification of the Chief Financial Officer
Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350, AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO SECTION 302 OF
THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002
I, Steven Hoelscher, certify that:
| 1. | I have reviewed this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (“Report”) for the period ended September 30, 2021 of Amergent Hospitality Group Inc.; |
| 2. | Based on my knowledge, this Report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this Report; |
| 3. | Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this Report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this Report; |
| 4. | The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have: |
| a. | designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this Report is being prepared; | |
| b. | designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles; | |
| c. | evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this Report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this Report based on such evaluation; and | |
| d. | disclosed in this Report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual Report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and |
| 5. | The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions): |
| a. | All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and | |
| b. | Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting. |
| Date: November 22, 2021 | /s/ Steven Hoelscher |
| Steven Hoelscher | |
| Chief Financial Officer | |
| (Principal Financial Officer) |
Exhibit 32.1
CERTIFICATION OF CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER PURSUANT TO 18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350,
AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO
SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002
In connection with the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of Amergent Hospitality Group Inc., a Delaware corporation (the “Company”) for the period ending September 30, 2021 as filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”), Michael D. Pruitt, Chief Executive Officer of the Company, hereby certifies, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1350, as adopted pursuant to § 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that, to the best of his knowledge and belief:
(1) The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended; and
(2) The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.
| November 22, 2021 | /s/ Michael D. Pruitt |
| Michael D. Pruitt | |
| Chief Executive Officer | |
| (Principal Executive Officer) |
Exhibit 32.2
CERTIFICATION
OF CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER PURSUANT TO 18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350, AS
ADOPTED PURSUANT TO
SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002
In connection with the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of Amergent Hospitality Group Inc., a Delaware corporation (the “Company”) for the period ending September 30, 2021 as filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”), Steven Hoelscher, Chief Financial Officer of the Company, hereby certifies, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1350, as adopted pursuant to § 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that, to the best of his knowledge and belief:
(1) The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended; and
(2) The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.
| November 22, 2021 | /s/ Steven Hoelscher |
| Steven Hoelscher | |
| Chief Financial Officer | |
| (Principal Financial Officer) |
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