WPP reported a 5.9% like-for-like decline in revenue less pass-through costs for Q3 FY25, citing client losses, muted ad spending, and macroeconomic uncertainty. Total revenue for the quarter stood at £3.26 billion, down 8.4% year-on-year, while revenue less pass-through costs fell 11.1% on a reported basis to £2.46 billion.
With results at the “low end of expectations,” the company cut its full-year outlook, now projecting FY organic growth between -5.5% and -6%, versus the earlier forecast of -3% to -5%. The operating margin remains guided at around 13%.
“This performance is unacceptable,” said Cindy Rose, WPP’s new CEO. “We’re simplifying our model, integrating AI, and improving execution. It will take time, but we’re acting fast.”
The Global Integrated Agencies segment saw a 6.2% LFL decline, with WPP Media down 5.7% and other creative arms like Ogilvy and AKQA also slipping. The Public Relations vertical fell 5.9%, while Specialist Agencies, including CMI Media Group and Landor & Partners, dipped 2.2%, supported by healthcare growth.
Geographically, North America declined 6%, the UK 8.9%, and Western Europe 4.4%. India grew 6.7%, offsetting a 10.6% fall in China.
Rose’s turnaround strategy focuses on simplification, performance culture, and technology-led expansion. WPP continues to bet big on AI, with 90% of client-facing staff now using its proprietary WPP Open platform and a £300 million investment in AI-driven tools slated for 2025.
Rose added, “We’re laying the foundation for long-term stability and renewed growth.”
