Compass Group completes CH&CO acquisition
A Royal Warrant Holder since 2013, the business has 10,000 employees, supporting over 900 clients across 1,000 locations
Compass Group UK and Ireland has announced that it has completed the deal to acquire catering company, CH&CO.
The acquisition sees CH&CO’s portfolio of brands, which include Gather and Gather, Vacherin and Company of Cooks, join Compass’ group of companies, resulting in a broad client proposition.
CH&CO has operations covering workplace catering, events, venues, visitor attractions, stadia, education, healthcare and hospitality. A Royal Warrant Holder since 2013, the business has 10,000 employees, supporting over 900 clients across 1,000 locations.
According to Compass, the acquisition will see the businesses capitalise “on their mutual strengths including their passion for food, client-centred approach, strong people focused culture, and commitment to sustainability”.
Additionally, they will look to accelerate innovation and increase supply chain security.
Bill Toner will stay on as CH&CO’s CEO, with Allister Richards, CH&CO’s COO joining the Compass Group UK&I executive team. The wider CH&CO senior management team will remain in place.
Robin Mills, CEO, Compass Group UK and Ireland, said: “I am delighted that CH&CO is joining Compass. I have really enjoyed meeting CH&CO colleagues in recent weeks and learning more about the business.
“Our passion for great food is what unites us. We highly value the heritage of each of our individual businesses and as we grow will continue to nurture their specific identity, culture and expertise. Our world-class group of companies will give more choice to our clients and customers. I am so proud to be part of all we have already achieved and as we bring our two well-known and respected names together, we are committed to being a force for good in the industry.”
Toner added: “It’s fantastic that the deal has now been completed. It’s so exciting to watch our team continue to evolve. Not only are we joining the number one caterer in the UK, but globally too.
“I am hugely proud of the business CH&CO has become over the past 30-plus years, and I’m delighted that it’s found a home for its next chapter at Compass. I am looking forward to working closely with our new colleagues as we begin the transition, and ensuring our teams and clients capitalise on the opportunities available to them.”
