Catering provider Compass Group, that employs 1,900 in the Republic, has reported a €9.2 million rise in turnover at its Irish operations. Global turnover climbed by 22 per cent to €16.5 billion, driving profits upward by 19 per cent to €1.25 billion.

Although the firm does not provide regional breakdowns of its financial performance, it said the Irish division, incorporating industry catering supplier Eurest, made significant gains.

It struck a €25 million partnership deal with O'Briens sandwich bars that will see the franchise, opening 15 outlets in office canteens managed by Compass.

The British firm employs 360,000 in 90 countries and 110,000 in Ireland and the UK.

Compass recorded a tenfold improvement in worldwide cashflow to €571 million. Final dividends per share rose 25 per cent to 11 cents per share. Like-for-like turnover rose 7 per cent, and like-for-like margin improved by 20 points. Earnings per share climbed by 4 per cent to 32 cent.

Earlier this year Compass acquired Management Catering Services, based in Clonskeagh, Dublin, which has a portfolio of 35 industry contracts.

In March Musgrave Foodservices signed a €25 million three-year contract to supply Eurest with 160 catering units in Ireland.

The last year had been one of measured expansion by Compass in Ireland said managing director Mr Noel Mahony.