Foodservice company Compass Group UK & Ireland has announced that it has agreed to acquire caterer CH&CO, subject to regulatory approval.

The proposed acquisition aims to capitalise on the “great strengths” of both businesses, said Compass, with the combined business having the potential to “accelerate innovation”, further “enhancing” the client and customer experience, as well as providing access to broader career progression opportunities for employees.

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, resulting in a “broad and exciting” client proposition.

Robin Mills, CEO 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.”

Bill Toner, CH&CO chief executive, 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.”