Food service company Compass has opened its first Marks & Spencer Simply Food store at the Royal Derby Hospital, as part of a new partnership in which M&S stores will open in various UK hospitals.

The introduction of the M&S Simply Food brand will be focused within Compass' specialist health care division Medirest, with more hospital openings expected later this year.

Paul Horwell, head of UK franchise at M&S, is excited to see how far the partnership can develop. He said:“We’re delighted to be working with Compass Group at Royal Derby Hospital. Compass joins our roster of trusted franchise partners and the combination of Compass’ retail expertise in specialist locations with the M&S’ innovative, quality food offer is an exciting prospect. Derby is a great opportunity for both parties and I’m looking forward to seeing how much further we can take the partnership.”

Meanwhile, Ian Sarson, group MD of Compass Group UK & Ireland added: “M&S is an ideal strategic partner for Compass. We are delighted to partner with M&S and look forward to offering our customers the confidence of a high street quality brand that they know and love.”