The rating on U.K.-based foodservices provider Compass Group PLC reflects Standard&Poor's Ratings Services' view of the group's strong business risk profile and leading global position in the food services industry, a position it maintains with a geographically diverse portfolio of well-established brands. As a result of high contract retention rates, Compass has better-than-average visibility on its earnings and cash flows. The group also enjoys low capital requirements and a highly flexible cost base, which add further stability to its strong cash flow generation. Compass' operating performance remains strong with rolling 12-month to March 31, 2012, revenues of £16.5 billion, up 8.4% from £15.2 billion for the previous 12-month period, and stable operating margins at healthy levels. Funds from
