Compass Group UK & Ireland has been included in the ‘50 GREAT British Employers of Veterans 2026’, for its ongoing commitment to supporting the Armed Forces Community. The list is the definitive national ranking of forces friendly employers and provides an in-depth showcase of the companies setting the benchmark for meaningful pathways into high-value careers for the military community.
This further recognises Compass’ position as a forces-friendly employer. The company’s support is driven by its active Armed Forces Network, which brings together colleagues from across the business who are veterans, reservists, military spouses, cadet force adult volunteers or part of an Armed Forces family, alongside allies and supporters. The network provides peer support, raises awareness, informs policy and works with leaders to ensure that colleagues receive practical support at key moments in their military and civilian lives.
Compass signed the Armed Forces Covenant in 2016, achieved Gold status through the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme in 2018 and secured Gold revalidation in 2023. The Gold award recognises employers that demonstrate and advocate meaningful support for the Armed Forces community and align their values with the Armed Forces Covenant.
This news is part of Armed Forces Week activity across Compass. The week began with its Armed Forces Network hosting an Afternoon Tea at Compass’ head office. The event was attended by external partners, including charities, plus members of the Executive team and those in the network.
The event also saw Will Bateman attend – the grandson of Jack Bateman who founded Compass in 1941. Jack created Factory Canteen Limited to provide wholesome food and lift the spirits of British munitions workers during WWII. Will attended to learn more about the company and its continued support of the Armed Forces. Will spoke powerfully about his grandfather’s original purpose and his reflections on Compass today, recognising that despite how much the business has evolved, those same values of care, service and community remain.
Another highlight of the week included a collaborative workshop delivered by the Forces Employment Charity at Restaurant Associates’ Learning Loft. The session provided valuable insights into the skills, experiences, and attributes that members of the Armed Forces community bring to the workplace, while exploring pathways into meaningful civilian careers.
Angela Lewis, Co-Chair of the Armed Forces Network, said: “We are incredibly proud to see Compass recognised as a Top 50 Employer of Veterans. This recognition highlights the meaningful contribution our sector is making, with soft FM playing an increasingly important role in supporting the Armed Forces community.
We are committed to creating an environment where veterans, reservists, military spouses and Armed Forces families feel truly supported, valued and able to thrive. The skills, resilience and leadership they bring are a huge asset, and we remain dedicated to ensuring that talent continues to flourish across our organisation.”
Compass’ Armed Forces Network is part of its wider Inclusion strategy and is one of six colleague networks. These communities help to ensure that colleagues from all backgrounds can access opportunities, support and a strong sense of community at work. This is part of its Our Social Promise commitment.
