Latest news with #WPP
Zawya
3 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
WPP Media launches as fully integrated, AI-powered media company
WPP today strengthened its position as the leading marketing services business for the intelligent era with the launch of its AI-driven media company, WPP Media. Reflecting growing demand from marketers for fully integrated capabilities, WPP Media replaces GroupM as the name for WPP's global media company. WPP Media manages more than $60 billion in annual media investment and works with more than 75% of the world's leading advertisers in over 80 markets. Mindshare, Wavemaker, and EssenceMediacom will continue to provide clients with dedicated teams as brands within WPP Media, leveraging common capabilities, technology and support functions. WPP Media is seamlessly connected with WPP's wider global agency networks and capabilities through WPP Open – WPP's AI-enabled marketing system – creating the industry's most advanced platform for scaled and integrated creative, production, data, commerce and personalized media delivery services. WPP Open is backed by £300m in investment each year and partnerships with the leading AI companies. WPP Media's fully integrated offering enables clients to unify media, data and production and holistically manage their owned, earned, shared and paid activities to deliver personalization at scale. The company's services are further enhanced with best-in-class connected commerce and state-of-the-art measurement and analytics capabilities. WPP Media is underpinned by a commitment to accelerate investments in learning and development initiatives that will provide career pathways to the jobs of the future, ensuring employees are empowered to lead marketing and media transformation in the AI era. For more information about WPP Media's integrated capabilities and to explore WPP Media's new brand identity, visit Brian Lesser, CEO of WPP Media, said: 'Consumers already expect advertising to be relevant and engaging and buying experiences to be seamless; those expectations are only going to accelerate in the age of AI. WPP Media is built for a world in which media is everywhere and in everything. By investing in our AI-powered product, integrating our offer with data and technology, and equipping our people with future-facing skills, we're helping our clients to stay ahead of rapidly changing consumer behavior and unlock the limitless opportunities for growth that AI will create.' Today's announcement comes as WPP launches a new cross-channel B2B campaign targeting business leaders and senior marketing decision-makers. The campaign showcases WPP's AI credentials, its integrated proposition, and the advanced capabilities of WPP Open. For more, visit Mark Read, CEO of WPP, said: 'We believe that WPP is the strongest marketing partner for the world's leading brands in the AI era, where technology and talent converge. The move to WPP Media continues our strategy to simplify and integrate our offer for clients. While GroupM was built for a time when media scale mattered most, WPP Media reflects the power of AI, data and technology and simpler, more integrated solutions. 'Our vision for the future is clear – marketing that is informed by data, led by seamlessly connected teams of brilliant people, and full of new opportunities for our clients.' Contact details: Felicity Stokes Head of Marketing and Communications, WPP Media MENA +971521469638 About WPP WPP is the creative transformation company. We use the power of creativity to build better futures for our people, planet, clients and communities. For more information, visit About WPP Media WPP Media is WPP's global media collective. In a world where media is everywhere and in everything, we bring the best platform, people, and partners together to create limitless opportunities for growth. For more information, visit
Campaign ME
3 days ago
- Business
- Campaign ME
GroupM officially rebrands to WPP Media
GroupM has officially rebranded as WPP Media and is now describing itself as an 'AI-driven media company'. Campaign UK first reported on the move to rename the media investment arm in early May. At the time, a spokesperson said that WPP doesn't 'comment on speculation'. Of the rebrand, Mark Read, chief executive at WPP, said that while 'GroupM was built for a time when media scale mattered most, WPP Media reflects the power of AI, data and technology and simpler, more integrated solutions'. Mindshare, Wavemaker and EssenceMediacom are set to continue to provide clients with dedicated teams as brands within WPP Media. Despite media agencies continuing to operate as distinct brands within WPP Media, GroupM told staff earlier this month that these brands will move to a single P&L and act as 'one voice in the market', with agency-specific titles set to 'sunset'. Last week, the media operating arm told staff which roles would be at risk of redundancy in the UK. The latest move comes after Brian Lesser, chief executive of WPP Media, told investors in March 2025 that WPP '[knows] that we have to be simpler' and laid out a five-point plan which included a shift to focus on an AI-based data strategy. Lesser added: 'By investing in our AI-powered product (WPP Open), integrating our offer with data and technology, and equipping our people with future-facing skills, we're helping our clients to stay ahead of rapidly changing consumer behaviour and unlock the limitless opportunities for growth that AI will create.' Lesser has made a series of changes to streamline the business since joining in September 2024, when he replaced Christian Juhl. For instance, he axed global agency brand chief executive roles for media agencies EssenceMediacom, Mindshare and Wavemaker in a bid to further centralise operations. GroupM EMEA chief executive Josh Krichefski left the business in March, after 14 years. Its leaders in key markets, including the UK, now report directly to Lesser.
Time of India
3 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
WPP replaces GroupM with AI-powered WPP Media
WPP today launched WPP Media , replacing GroupM as its global media company. This move marks a strategic shift to meet rising demand from marketers for fully integrated, AI-driven solutions that connect media, data, and production at scale. Managing over $60 billion in annual media investment , WPP Media works with more than 75% of the world's top advertisers across 80+ markets. WPP Media is the largest media agency network in India. Existing agency brands—Mindshare, Wavemaker, and EssenceMediacom—will remain under the new WPP Media umbrella, continuing to serve clients with dedicated teams and shared access to technology, capabilities, and support services. WPP Media is integrated with WPP's broader global agency network through WPP Open, the company's AI-enabled marketing system. Backed by £300 million in annual investment and leading AI partnerships, WPP Open will power advanced capabilities across creative, data, commerce, production, and media delivery—making it the most comprehensive platform in the industry. WPP Media will enable advertisers to unify their media, data, and production strategies and manage owned, earned, shared, and paid media holistically. The offering includes advanced measurement, analytics, and connected commerce tools to deliver personalisation at scale. As part of its transformation, WPP Media is also investing in future-focused learning and development initiatives to build career pathways and equip employees to lead in the AI era. Brian Lesser, CEO of WPP Media, said: 'Consumers already expect advertising to be relevant and engaging and buying experiences to be seamless; those expectations are only going to accelerate in the age of AI. WPP Media is built for a world in which media is everywhere and in everything. By investing in our AI-powered product, integrating our offer with data and technology, and equipping our people with future-facing skills, we're helping our clients to stay ahead of rapidly changing consumer behavior and unlock the limitless opportunities for growth that AI will create.' Mark Read, CEO of WPP, said: 'We believe that WPP is the strongest marketing partner for the world's leading brands in the AI era, where technology and talent converge. The move to WPP Media continues our strategy to simplify and integrate our offer for clients. While GroupM was built for a time when media scale mattered most, WPP Media reflects the power of AI, data and technology and simpler, more integrated solutions. Our vision for the future is clear – marketing that is informed by data, led by seamlessly connected teams of brilliant people, and full of new opportunities for our clients.'
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Top UK Dividend Stocks For May 2025
As the FTSE 100 index experiences turbulence due to weak trade data from China, investors in the UK are navigating a challenging market environment. In such times, dividend stocks can offer a measure of stability and income potential, making them an attractive option for those looking to weather market volatility while still seeking returns. Name Dividend Yield Dividend Rating WPP (LSE:WPP) 6.66% ★★★★★★ Man Group (LSE:EMG) 7.45% ★★★★★☆ 4imprint Group (LSE:FOUR) 5.17% ★★★★★☆ Keller Group (LSE:KLR) 3.16% ★★★★★☆ Dunelm Group (LSE:DNLM) 6.67% ★★★★★☆ Treatt (LSE:TET) 3.00% ★★★★★☆ NWF Group (AIM:NWF) 4.97% ★★★★★☆ James Latham (AIM:LTHM) 7.31% ★★★★★☆ OSB Group (LSE:OSB) 6.97% ★★★★★☆ Grafton Group (LSE:GFTU) 3.71% ★★★★★☆ Click here to see the full list of 59 stocks from our Top UK Dividend Stocks screener. Here we highlight a subset of our preferred stocks from the screener. Simply Wall St Dividend Rating: ★★★★☆☆ Overview: Next 15 Group plc, along with its subsidiaries, offers communications services across the United Kingdom, Europe, Africa, the United States, and the Asia Pacific with a market cap of £269.97 million. Operations: Next 15 Group plc generates its revenue through four main segments: Customer Engage (£340.56 million), Customer Insight (£73.87 million), Customer Delivery (£171.19 million), and Business Transformation (£144.19 million). Dividend Yield: 5.7% Next 15 Group's dividend payments are well-covered by earnings and cash flows, with a payout ratio of 39% and a cash payout ratio of 22.7%. However, its dividend track record is unstable due to volatility over the past decade. Despite this, the company trades at good value compared to its peers and industry. Recent earnings showed slight revenue growth but declining net income, with new board appointments potentially influencing future strategies. Dive into the specifics of Next 15 Group here with our thorough dividend report. In light of our recent valuation report, it seems possible that Next 15 Group is trading behind its estimated value. Simply Wall St Dividend Rating: ★★★★☆☆ Overview: Vertu Motors plc is an automotive retailer based in the United Kingdom with a market cap of £201.07 million. Operations: Vertu Motors plc generates revenue of £4.76 billion from its operations as a gasoline and auto dealer in the United Kingdom. Dividend Yield: 3.2% Vertu Motors' dividend payments are well-covered by earnings (payout ratio: 37.4%) and cash flows (cash payout ratio: 16.4%), yet they have been volatile over the past decade, with a recent decrease to 2.05 pence per share for FY25 from FY24's 2.35 pence. The company trades below fair value and is seeking acquisitions despite sector uncertainties, aiming for profitability improvements through cost control and strategic capital allocation amidst declining net income of £18.1 million from £25.71 million last year. Get an in-depth perspective on Vertu Motors' performance by reading our dividend report here. Our valuation report here indicates Vertu Motors may be undervalued. Simply Wall St Dividend Rating: ★★★★☆☆ Overview: City of London Investment Group PLC is a publicly owned investment manager with a market cap of £181.85 million. Operations: City of London Investment Group PLC generates revenue primarily from its asset management segment, amounting to $72.64 million. Dividend Yield: 8.3% City of London Investment Group offers an attractive dividend yield at 8.29%, ranking in the top 25% of UK dividend payers, but its sustainability is questionable given a high payout ratio (111.6%) not covered by earnings, though cash flows do cover dividends (cash payout ratio: 87.1%). Dividends have grown over the past decade but remain volatile and unreliable. Recent board addition of Ben Stocks may enhance governance with his extensive leadership experience. Take a closer look at City of London Investment Group's potential here in our dividend report. In light of our recent valuation report, it seems possible that City of London Investment Group is trading beyond its estimated value. Embark on your investment journey to our 59 Top UK Dividend Stocks selection here. Have a stake in these businesses? Integrate your holdings into Simply Wall St's portfolio for notifications and detailed stock reports. Take control of your financial future using Simply Wall St, offering free, in-depth knowledge of international markets to every investor. Explore high-performing small cap companies that haven't yet garnered significant analyst attention. Fuel your portfolio with companies showing strong growth potential, backed by optimistic outlooks both from analysts and management. Find companies with promising cash flow potential yet trading below their fair value. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Companies discussed in this article include AIM:NFG AIM:VTU and LSE:CLIG. This article was originally published by Simply Wall St. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Top UK Dividend Stocks To Watch In May 2025
Amidst the recent downturn in the FTSE 100, influenced by weak trade data from China and its ongoing economic challenges, investors are keeping a close eye on dividend stocks as a potential source of steady income. In such uncertain times, selecting dividend stocks with strong fundamentals and resilient business models can offer stability and regular returns, making them an attractive option for those looking to navigate the current market volatility. Name Dividend Yield Dividend Rating WPP (LSE:WPP) 6.66% ★★★★★★ Man Group (LSE:EMG) 7.47% ★★★★★☆ 4imprint Group (LSE:FOUR) 5.18% ★★★★★☆ Keller Group (LSE:KLR) 3.16% ★★★★★☆ Dunelm Group (LSE:DNLM) 6.67% ★★★★★☆ Treatt (LSE:TET) 3.00% ★★★★★☆ NWF Group (AIM:NWF) 4.97% ★★★★★☆ James Latham (AIM:LTHM) 7.31% ★★★★★☆ OSB Group (LSE:OSB) 6.97% ★★★★★☆ Grafton Group (LSE:GFTU) 3.71% ★★★★★☆ Click here to see the full list of 59 stocks from our Top UK Dividend Stocks screener. Let's uncover some gems from our specialized screener. Simply Wall St Dividend Rating: ★★★★☆☆ Overview: Irish Continental Group plc is a maritime transport company serving Ireland, the United Kingdom, and Continental Europe, with a market cap of £709.03 million. Operations: Irish Continental Group's revenue is primarily derived from its Ferries segment, which generated €433.50 million, and its Container and Terminal segment, which contributed €203.50 million. Dividend Yield: 3% Irish Continental Group's dividend payments have been volatile over the past decade, yet they have shown growth. The company is trading at 46.8% below its estimated fair value, suggesting potential undervaluation. With a payout ratio of 42.8%, dividends are well covered by earnings and cash flows (25%). Despite a lower yield compared to top UK dividend payers, recent proposals include a final dividend of €17.2 million for 2024, highlighting ongoing commitment to shareholder returns. Click here and access our complete dividend analysis report to understand the dynamics of Irish Continental Group. Our expertly prepared valuation report Irish Continental Group implies its share price may be too high. Simply Wall St Dividend Rating: ★★★★☆☆ Overview: Kainos Group plc provides digital technology services across the United Kingdom, Ireland, North America, Central Europe, and internationally with a market capitalization of approximately £885.32 million. Operations: Kainos Group plc generates revenue from three main segments: Digital Services (£199.17 million), Workday Products (£68.08 million), and Workday Services (£102.51 million). Dividend Yield: 3.9% Kainos Group's dividend payments have been volatile and unreliable over the past decade, with a current payout ratio of 81.2% covered by earnings and a cash payout ratio of 61.5%. The company trades at 22.4% below its estimated fair value, indicating potential undervaluation. Despite a lower yield compared to top UK dividend payers, the board has proposed a final dividend of £23.6 million for 2025, reflecting ongoing shareholder return efforts amidst recent share buyback activities totaling £30 million. Delve into the full analysis dividend report here for a deeper understanding of Kainos Group. In light of our recent valuation report, it seems possible that Kainos Group is trading behind its estimated value. Simply Wall St Dividend Rating: ★★★★☆☆ Overview: Pollen Street Group, founded in 2015 and headquartered in London, operates as a financial services company with a market cap of approximately £471.65 million. Operations: Pollen Street Group generates revenue through its Asset Manager segment, contributing £66.80 million, and its Investment Company segment, which accounts for £60.38 million. Dividend Yield: 7.0% Pollen Street Group's dividend is well-covered with a payout ratio of 68.1% and a cash payout ratio of 38.9%, suggesting sustainability despite its volatile nine-year track record. The recent interim dividend was set at 27.1 pence per share, with guidance for no less than 55 pence in 2025, indicating commitment to shareholder returns. Trading at a P/E ratio of 9.5x, below the UK market average, it presents good value relative to peers amidst ongoing M&A discussions with KKR & Co. Click to explore a detailed breakdown of our findings in Pollen Street Group's dividend report. The analysis detailed in our Pollen Street Group valuation report hints at an deflated share price compared to its estimated value. Click through to start exploring the rest of the 56 Top UK Dividend Stocks now. Are you invested in these stocks already? Keep abreast of every twist and turn by setting up a portfolio with Simply Wall St, where we make it simple for investors like you to stay informed and proactive. Join a community of smart investors by using Simply Wall St. It's free and delivers expert-level analysis on worldwide markets. Explore high-performing small cap companies that haven't yet garnered significant analyst attention. Fuel your portfolio with companies showing strong growth potential, backed by optimistic outlooks both from analysts and management. Find companies with promising cash flow potential yet trading below their fair value. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Companies discussed in this article include LSE:ICGC LSE:KNOS and LSE:POLN. This article was originally published by Simply Wall St. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@ Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
