Re Industry Classification

Compass Group PLC
21 February 2002

                                                            21st February 2002


                INDUSTRY CLASSIFICATION OF COMPASS GROUP PLC

Compass Group PLC confirms that, after discussions, it has applied to the FTSE
Global Classification Committee for reclassification from the 'Leisure,
Entertainment and Hotels' sector to the 'Support Services' sector, which would
more appropriately reflect the Group's activities and would move it to the same
sector as that of its international peer group comparators.

The result of this application is expected to be known after the close of
business on 1st March 2002 following the FTSE's Global Classification Committee
Quarterly Meeting on 28th February 2002.  Provided the application is
successful, the company understands that the sector change will be implemented
on 18th March 2002.


                                     Ends

Enquiries:
Cathi Lawrence                  Compass Group                Tel: [phone]
Timothy Grey                    Brunswick                    Tel: [phone]


Note
Compass Group is the world's largest foodservice company employing over 300,000
people in over 90 countries and with annual revenues in excess of £9bn. Compass
Group provides foodservice for clients including major employers, educational
establishments, hospitals, leisure venues, retail locations and at major
airports and stations throughout USA, Europe, and developing markets in Asia
and South America. It operates through sector-specific subsidiaries such as
Eurest, the world's largest specialist in providing foodservice to business and
industry clients, and Select Service Partner, the European market leader in
foodservice at airport restaurants and rail stations. Further information on
the Group can be found at www.compass-group.com.





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