Income Taxes

9 Months Ended

Oct. 01, 2011

Income Taxes [Abstract]

Income Taxes

11. INCOME TAXES

The effective tax rate for the three months ended October 1, 2011 was 30.3% versus 30.2% for the three months ended October 2, 2010. The effective tax rate for the nine months ended October 1, 2011 was 30.1% versus 31.2% in the prior period. The change in the effective rates was driven by changes in the global distribution of income.

As of October 1, 2011 and January 1, 2011, the Company had approximately $5.3 million and $5.5 million respectively, of unrecognized tax benefits, all of which would affect its effective tax rate if recognized. The Company recognizes interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions in income tax expense.

The Company or one of its subsidiaries files income tax returns in the U.S. federal jurisdiction, and various state and foreign jurisdictions. Federal tax returns from 2008 through 2010 and various state tax returns remain subject to income tax examinations by tax authorities.