WPP reported a 5% year-on-year drop in revenue for the first quarter of 2025, posting £3.24 billion. CEO Mark Read stated that the results aligned with expectations, citing ongoing macroeconomic challenges and the timing of new business wins. He added that performance is expected to improve in the second half of the year.
The Asia Pacific region declined 5.7%, contributing to a broader 3.8% revenue dip across regions outside the US and UK. However, India emerged as a strong performer with a 5.5% revenue increase, driven largely by GroupM’s new business momentum.
Despite the decline, WPP highlighted progress on strategic priorities. Notable wins in the quarter included new accounts for VML and Burson from brands such as Generali, Heineken, and Levi Strauss & Co. Read also emphasized the recent acquisition of data collaboration platform InfoSum, which will be integrated into GroupM. He said this move would accelerate WPP’s ambitions in AI-powered data solutions.
On the topic of rising global tariffs, Read said WPP itself is not directly impacted but acknowledged the potential effects on clients and the broader economy. So far, client spending has remained stable, and the company’s full-year guidance already factors in a challenging macroeconomic environment.
Read concluded by reiterating WPP’s commitment to cost discipline and agility in navigating uncertainties. “We remain focused on delivering long-term value, staying responsive to market conditions, and investing in areas that drive future growth,” he said.
