P&O Australia Foodservice Businesses Acquired

Compass Group PLC
2 November 1999

          Compass Group Acquires P&O Australia Foodservice Businesses
                                       
Compass Group PLC is delighted to announce the completion of the acquisition
of the foodservice businesses of P&O Australia. This includes foodservice for
business & industry, remote site, offshore, education and leisure clients.

The consideration payable by Compass Group is A$140 million, payable in cash.

Miguel Ramis, Chief Executive, Compass Group, Southern Europe, South America &
Australasia Division, said, 'Through Eurest the Group already has a strong
reputation for the quality of its foodservice in Australia.  We are pleased
that this move significantly strengthens our position in the Australian
market.  We look forward to working with the new members of our team to
continue to provide the highest quality service to all of our clients.'

For further information contact:

Nick Lyon
Hudson Sandler                     [phone]

Cathi Lawrence
Corporate Communications Director
Compass Group PLC                  [phone]