Compass Group Acquires CH&CO from Equistone

Compass Group PLC has agreed to acquire CH&CO, a UK & Ireland premium contract catering and hospitality services provider, for an initial enterprise value of £475 million plus an earn-out. The transaction, subject to regulatory approval, buys CH&CO from private equity owner Equistone and expands Compass's capabilities and footprint in the UK and Ireland; CH&CO generates c. £450m revenue and employs over 10,000 people.