Caterer Compass records third-quarter revenue boost from AI data centres; shares slide

Compass Group, the world’s largest caterer, reported third-quarter organic revenue growth of 7.1% on July 21, with stronger demand from AI data centres helping offset higher energy and food costs tied to the Iran war. The company kept its 2026 outlook, but shares fell more than 3% in early trading versus expectations of roughly 7% growth for the quarter. Compass said its Business & Industry segment—its best performer—generated more than $2 billion in new business wins, supported by demand for food and support services from AI hyperscalers. North America volumes also received a modest lift from the recent World Cup. Compass reiterated an annual profit growth target above 11% and noted that about two-thirds of its contracts include dynamic pricing. Rival Sodexo pointed to faster revenue growth from 2027, targeting renewed performance in North America.