The operating results of U.K.-based food services provider Compass Group PLC (Compass) remain strong and its credit metrics are consistently higher than those we consider commensurate with the current rating. We are therefore raising our long-term corporate credit rating on Compass to 'A' from 'A-'. We are also raising to 'A' from 'A-' our issue ratings on Compass' £2 billion euro medium-term notes program, £250 million bonds due August 2014, and €600 million notes due February 2019. The stable outlook reflects our view that Compass' operating performance and credit metrics will remain strong. On Feb. 18, 2013, Standard&Poor's Ratings Services raised its long-term corporate credit rating on U.K.-based food services provider Compass Group PLC (Compass) to 'A' from
