WPP Faces Revenue Decline and Market Pressure as Shares Plunge

The UK-based advertising giant forecasts a challenging 2025, trailing rivals Publicis and Omnicom amid global economic uncertainty and internal restructuring.

WPP shares dropped by up to 20%, erasing £1.5 billion from its market value, following disappointing 2024 financial results and a weak 2025 outlook.
The company reported a 1% decline in 2024 revenues, with significant drops in China and softer demand in the US and UK, and forecasts a further 0-2% organic revenue decrease for 2025.
French rival Publicis reported 5.8% organic revenue growth in 2024, widening the gap between the two companies as Publicis solidifies its position as the world's largest ad group by revenue.
US advertising giants Omnicom and Interpublic announced a $31 billion merger, intensifying competition for WPP in the global advertising market.
CEO Mark Read has emphasized AI investment and internal restructuring but faces criticism over a return-to-office mandate and questions about his leadership amid WPP's ongoing challenges.