WPP shows signs of stabilization amid restructuring

WPP is showing signs of stabilization following several quarters of declining revenue. The British advertising group reported a 4.7% decrease in like-for-like revenue for the first half of 2026, totaling approximately £4.75 billion. However, this figure exceeded analyst expectations, which had predicted a 6.5% drop.

Performance improved in the second quarter, where the decline moderated to 2.8%, compared to a 6.7% drop in the first three months of the year. This improvement was particularly notable in the WPP Media division. Following these results, WPP shares rose by 29% on the day of the announcement.

CEO Cindy Rose, who took the role at the start of 2026, is leading a major reorganization strategy known as ‘Elevate28’. The plan aims to move away from the traditional holding company model by simplifying the structure into four integrated areas: creativity, production, media, and business solutions. The company is focusing on cost reduction, asset sales, and the integration of artificial intelligence to drive a return to growth, which is projected for 2027.