NAIROBI, Kenya— Advertising and marketing services firm WPP Scangroup PLC reported a reduced half-year loss for the period ended June 30, 2025, even as gross profit slid on weaker client spending.
The company posted a net loss of Sh 208.3 million compared to Sh 252.3 million in the first half of 2024. Loss per share stood at Sh 0.46 against Sh 0.57 a year earlier.
Gross profit fell 16 percent to Sh 814.6 million, reflecting reduced advertising budgets across key markets.
Total assets dropped 8.7 percent to Sh 6.6 billion, while cash and cash equivalents shrank 44 percent to Sh 1.1 billion.
A notable bright spot was a sharp reduction in foreign exchange losses, which stood at Sh 6.5 million compared to Sh 251 million last year, benefiting from relative stability of the shilling during the first half of 2025.
“Our gross profit has decreased by 16%, influenced by macro-economic factors and a challenging trading environment in several key markets,” the board said in its statement.
“Despite the environment, the Company has demonstrated resilience and reduced operating and administrative expenses by Sh 32 million.”
The group reported net cash used in operating activities of Sh 950.6 million, more than double the Sh 492.8 million outflows recorded in the same period of 2024.
Financing activities also drained Sh 284.8 million compared to KSh 92.8 million last year.
The board did not recommend an interim dividend.
Looking ahead, Scangroup warned of continued pressure on discretionary spending, particularly in advertising, but said it will maintain operational stability while selectively investing in content, data, and technology.
