Compass Group UK & Ireland, a food and support services business, has agreed to acquire CH&CO, a food services provider in the UK and Ireland, for an undisclosed amount.

CH&CO operates across the food service industry in sectors including workplace catering, events and education.

With a workforce of 10,000 employees and a portfolio that supports more than 900 clients across 1,000 locations, the company has held a Royal Warrant [a mark of recognition for companies that have regularly supplied the royal household] since 2013.

The deal will unite the strengths of both companies, fostering innovation and enhancing overall client and customer experience.

Compass Group and CH&CO are expected to capitalise on shared values such as passion for food, a client-centred approach and commitment to sustainability.

CH&CO's portfolio, which includes notable brands such as Gather & Gather, Vacherin and Company of Cooks, will be integrated into Compass Group's family of brands.

Compass Group UK & Ireland CEO Robin Mills said: “I have always admired CH&CO and its real passion for food. I believe that by combining our strengths the proposed acquisition will bring a multitude of benefits to clients, customers and employees.

“Together we have the potential to create even more compelling and innovative solutions for our clients and customers, as well as a wider range of career opportunities for our talented people in both organisations.” 

CH&CO CEO Bill Toner said: “We’re delighted that Compass wants to acquire CH&CO. The prospect of joining a leading global provider of food services offers huge potential for us and our clients.

“Creativity and innovation are skills that we share with Compass and food is at the heart of everything we do.

“Both businesses have strong and complementary brands, and subject to regulatory approval, there is a great opportunity for us to learn from each other and to build an even more exciting future together.”