Compass Group acquires Vermaat

British foodservice company Compass Group is set to acquire Dutch caterer Vermaat for around €1.5 billion. The deal still requires approval from regulatory authorities, but the intention is clear: Compass aims to strengthen its position in Europe.

Vermaat specialises in on-site food services. From corporate restaurants to hospital cafés, and from museum catering to stadium hospitality, always with a premium approach. The company also offers delivery services and retail concepts.

Compass, active in 30 countries, provides daily meals and support services to businesses, healthcare facilities, schools and leisure venues. In the Netherlands, it operates through brands such as Eurest, ESFM and Maison van den Boer.

Vermaat to remain an independent brand

With this acquisition, Compass is bringing a market leader on board. Vermaat holds a strong position in the Netherlands and is expanding in Germany and France. In 2025, the company expects to generate around €700 million in revenue. Compass sees significant opportunities in the premium segment of the European market, which is estimated at €115 billion.

Vermaat will continue to operate as an independent brand within the Compass organisation. This approach mirrors the strategy Compass has successfully implemented in North America.

“The prospect of welcoming Vermaat into the Compass family is truly exciting,” said Kathinka Friis-Møller, CEO Europe & Middle East. “This is a ground-breaking acquisition of one of Europe’s most entrepreneurial and innovative catering companies.”

Growth without losing identity

Vermaat’s works council will be consulted as part of the process. Final approval may take several more months.

“I am incredibly proud of this new partnership,” said CEO Rick Zeelen. “It marks the start of a great, shared journey, fuelled by the passion of both the Vermaat and Compass teams.”

If all goes according to plan, Vermaat will join the Compass Group’s European operations, while retaining its own culture, brands and team.

Compass-group.nl