Statement re Board update

Compass Group PLC
09 May 2005


                                Compass Group PLC

                                  Board Update

9 May 2005


Compass Group PLC today announces Sir Francis Mackay's intention to step down
from his position as Chairman by the Annual General Meeting in February 2006.

Sir Francis has been Chairman of Compass Group since 1999. Since the start of
the year the Board has been discussing an orderly succession process. In line
with that plan a formal search for a new Chairman has commenced.


Enquiries:

Brunswick

Simon Sporborg / Pam Small                   [phone]


Notes


Compass Group PLC is the world's leading foodservice company providing food,
vending and related services to clients and customers in the workplace, at
school and colleges, hospitals, on the move, at leisure and in defence, offshore
and remote locations. Compass Group has annual revenues of £12 billion and
employs 400,000 people in over 90 countries.


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