1 EXHIBIT NO. 23(a) CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS As independent public accountants, we hearby consent to the incorporation by reference in this registration statement on Form S-8 of our reports dated February 22, 1993 included in The Hanover Companies' Form 10-K for the year ended December 26, 1992 and The Horn & Hardart Company's Form 10-K for the year ended December 26, 1992 and to all references to our Firm included in this registration statement. ARTHUR ANDERSEN & CO. New York, New York January 27, 1994 13