The history of Compass Group in the UK dates back to 1941, when Jack Bateman founded factory canteens to feed British workers supporting the war effort. In 1967, the company was acquired by Grand Metropolitan and the catering business became Compass Services in 1984.

Following a management buyout of Grand Metropolitan's contract services division in 1987, Compass Group was formed. Compass Group floated on the Stock Exchange a year later. In 1998, the Group became a FTSE 100 company.

In July 2000, Compass Group's UK business merged with the catering arm of Granada PLC to become the UK & Ireland division of Compass Group – the UK market leader in foodservice and hospitality.

Compass Group continues to be a driving force for change in the foodservice industry, pioneering concepts and sector-focused approaches for the marketplace, including revolutionary foodservice systems such as Steamplicity. This is matched by a portfolio of high street franchised brands including Upper Crust and Caffè Ritazza.