The Chefs Warehouse Inc (CHEF)

Debt-to-capital ratio

Dec 31, 2023 Dec 31, 2022 Dec 31, 2021 Dec 31, 2020 Dec 31, 2019
Long-term debt US$ in thousands 664,802 653,504 394,160 398,084 386,106
Total stockholders’ equity US$ in thousands 454,672 401,509 350,211 344,590 335,933
Debt-to-capital ratio 0.59 0.62 0.53 0.54 0.53

December 31, 2023 calculation

Debt-to-capital ratio = Long-term debt ÷ (Long-term debt + Total stockholders’ equity)
= $664,802K ÷ ($664,802K + $454,672K)
= 0.59

The debt-to-capital ratio of The Chefs Warehouse Inc has fluctuated over the past five years, ranging from 0.53 to 0.62. This ratio indicates the proportion of the company's capital structure that is funded by debt. A higher debt-to-capital ratio suggests that the company relies more on debt financing, which can increase financial risk due to obligations to creditors. Conversely, a lower ratio indicates a more conservative approach to financing.

In this case, The Chefs Warehouse Inc's debt-to-capital ratio has shown some variability but has generally remained within a moderate range. The slight decrease from 2022 to 2023 may indicate a reduction in reliance on debt financing or an increase in capital relative to debt. It is important for investors and stakeholders to closely monitor this ratio to assess the company's financial health and risk profile, as changes in the ratio could impact the company's ability to meet its financial obligations and long-term sustainability.


Peer comparison

Dec 31, 2023

Company name
Symbol
Debt-to-capital ratio
The Chefs Warehouse Inc
CHEF
0.59
Performance Food Group Co
PFGC
0.48
SpartanNash Co
SPTN
0.00
United Natural Foods Inc
UNFI
0.56