Publicis indicates stronger October growth

FRANCE — Advertising giant Publicis Groupe has posted a trading update indicating an organic growth of October revenues of above 7%.

The positive news follows a disappointing September, leading to a slowdown in the company’s Q3 growth.

In a statement published today Maurice Lévy, chairman and CEO of Publicis Groupe (pictured), said: “After the brutal and unexpected decline of advertising spendings in September the Publicis Groupe’s organic growth of October revenues is above 7%. This spectacular growth is driven by the US, fast-growing markets and digital numbers. Europe and analogue media remain at worrying levels.

“While October numbers are extremely good we should remain cautious: fourth quarter is always uncertain, particularly December. At this point in time we cannot yet confirm that growth and confidence are back. We will continue to aggressively pursue our strategy on our two growth pillars: digital and fast growing markets.”

Last week Publicis Groupe announced an overhaul of its digital intelligence service VivaKi, opening it up to all group agencies to encompass research projects from the division’s Nerve Centre such as ‘The Pool’ and Audience on Demand (AOD). It will mean that all Publicis Groupe agencies will have more freedom to collaborate using VivaKi resources. Previously the service was only used by the group’s media planning and buying shops.

The company has also increaed its focus on digital and data in recent months. Digital agency LBi recently announced that it had reached an agreement with Publicis Groupe to be acquired for €416m. The deal includes the data businesses Bigmouthmedia and social media marketing and insights firm Mr Youth.