Other Liabilities (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Nov. 30, 2011	Aug. 31, 2011
Other liabilities [Abstract]
Deferred rent and other lease incentives	$ 108,493	$ 90,761
Deferred gains on sale-leasebacks	30,588	31,288
Uncertain tax positions	28,958	28,218
Restructuring obligation	23,002	17,802
Other	58,557	46,401
Total other liabilities	249,598	214,470
Less current portion	(50,420)	(50,131)
Total other long-term liabilities	$ 199,178	$ 164,339