Meritage Hospitality Group Inc. reported preliminary consolidated earnings results for the fourth quarter and full year ended December 31, 2012. For the quarter, the company's sales increased 4.4% to $25.0 million compared to $24.0 million in 2011. Net income was $707,000 compared to $1,251,000 for the same period last year. EBITDA increased was $1.2 million compared to $1.8 million for the same period last year.

For the full year, the company's sales increased 7.6% to a record $99.0 million compared to $91.9 million in 2011. Income before tax increased 80.9% to $2.3 million compared to $1.3 million last year. Net income increased 28.2% to $2.9 million compared to $2.3 million for the same period last year. EBITDA increased 11.7% to $5.5 million compared to $5.0 million for the same period last year.

The company provided earnings guidance for the year of 2013. For the period, the company expects consolidated sales growth of 30% to 35%, earnings before taxes growth of 110% to 120%, net earnings growth of 15% to 20% (prior fiscal year included certain non-recurring deferred tax asset benefits) and EBITDA growth of 65% to 70%.