CH&CO is a food business with operations covering workplace catering, events, venues, visitor attractions, stadia, education, healthcare and hospitality. The business has 10,000 employees, supporting over 900 clients across 1,000 locations.
The proposed acquisition aims to capitalise on the strengths of both businesses, including their passion for food, client-centred approach, strong people focused culture and commitment to sustainability.
Robin Mills, chief executive of Compass Group UK & Ireland, 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.”
Following completion, the intention is that CH&CO's portfolio of companies, which include Gather & Gather, Vacherin and Company of Cooks, will join Compass Group's family of brands.
Bill Toner, chief executive of CH&CO, added: “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.”