WPP

WPP has opened a flagship AI-enabled production hub aimed at lowering client costs and speeding content creation, with executives saying AI can make some ads up to 60% cheaper and meet the surge in demand across digital channels. Creatives including Luke Scott warn that automated production risks eroding hands-on learning in commercials, potentially creating a 'lost generation' of directors and producing cookie-cutter work. WPP leaders counter that AI is an industry evolution that enables greater output while high-profile, large-scale campaigns will continue to require traditional production. » More on theguardian.com

WPP will cut up to 1,000 additional jobs by year-end and sell non-core units to reduce costs. The restructuring under CEO Cindy Rose also includes a reduction of its property portfolio and consolidation of London sites. These measures are in addition to about 11,000 job cuts already implemented since early 2025; total headcount was 97,388 as of 30 June 2026. » More on de.investing.com

WPP reported a 4.7% like-for-like revenue decline in H1 2026, with sequential improvement to a 2.8% drop in Q2 and an expected low- to mid-single-digit decline in H2 as management targets a return to growth in 2027. Headline operating profit was £398m (8.4% margin) while adjusted net debt fell to £2.9bn and headline diluted EPS eased to £0.151. The group reaffirmed full-year margin guidance of 12%–13% and a £0.15 per-share dividend, highlighted progress on its Elevate28 cost-savings programme (target £500m) and said disposals should generate more than £200m in 2026. WPP also noted new integrated client wins, the launch of Enterprise Solutions, and expanded AI and technology partnerships as drivers of future growth. » More on finance.yahoo.com