The acquisition will enable Peabodys Coffee to scale its coffee shop footprint across the UK NHS estate, where it currently operates 10 stores and has a further seven in development
Compass One’s Mark Webster (left) and Peabodys Coffee’s Claudia Mascino (right) | Photo credit: Compass Group UK & Ireland
Healthcare caterer Compass One, part of Compass Group UK & Ireland, has acquired UK hospital coffee chain Peabody Coffee for an undisclosed sum as it seeks to expand its reach in the NHS.
Founded in 1997, Bedfordshire-based Peabodys Coffee currently operates 10 coffee shops at NHS sites. The café operator serves Fairtrade coffee from Miko Group-owned Puro Coffee and uses La Cimbali espresso machines at its sites.
Claudia Mascino, who has led Peabodys Coffee as Managing Director since 2005, said joining Compass One will enable the business to open more coffee shops across the NHS estate. Peabodys Coffee currently has new cafés in development at seven UK hospital sites.
“We are really excited about the opportunity that joining Compass presents. Bringing the Peabodys Coffee offer to more NHS hospitals has long been an ambition of mine. Our values around sustainability, great food and coffee are entrenched in our business and what makes us special. I am passionate about supporting our NHS and delighted to be able to grow and invest further in our business,” Mascino said.
In a press release, Compass Group said the move will enable Compass One to expand its reach in the NHS, where it currently offers catering, cleaning, portering and security services.
“We have long admired the ethos of Peabodys Coffee. We are excited about the opportunity to support their growth, bringing Peabodys Coffee to many more NHS sites in the future, for NHS staff, patients and visitors to enjoy,” said Mark Webster, CEO, Compass One.
Compass Group currently provides catering and wider facilities management services to offices, universities and sports stadiums across 33 markets globally.
In January 2024, Compass Group acquired premium UK contract caterer and hospitality services group CH&CO for £475m ($600m) – adding more than 900 clients and annual revenues in the region of £450m ($570m) to its business.