Publicis Groupe revenues have climbed 35% during a six-month period in which it cites the acquisitions of Australian firm Match Media and Sapient Corporation as particular highlights.
Publicis – which owns Publicis Worldwide, Saatchi & Saatchi, Leo Burnett’s, BBH, Razorfish, Starcom MediaVest and ZenithOptimedia, has experienced a particularly strong six months: revenues have risen 35.3% to €4,542m, from €3,358 in the same period last year.
It says the combined effects of the Sapient acquisition, the strengthening of the American dollar and the “good work put in by staff” have considerably improved key figures.
Digital activities accounted for over half of all revenues in this first half-year, as did the company’s operations in the US.
Meanwhile, Aussie firm Match will be integrated into Blue 449, ZenithOptimedia Group’s new global international media network. Blue 449 will have offices in 17 cities by the end of this year and will work alongside other ZenithOptimedia brands such as Performics and Newcast.
The new network will also act as a portal providing open-source access to a vast array of businesses within the VivaKi and Publicis groups.
Publicis’ acquisition of the Sapient Corporation was completed in February for $3.7 billion.
A statement from the company said: “The Sapient integration is not only going to plan, it is slightly ahead of schedule. Most importantly, it is fulfilling promises that exceed our strategic valuation of the company.”
Publicis’ activities in Asia Pacific accounted for €486 in revenues. The region reported growth of 26.6% and a return to positive growth in the second quarter in mainland China (+4.6%) after several quarters in decline.
The company recently picked up seven Grand Prix, 51 Gold, 64 Silver, 129 Bronze and six Special awards at Cannes Lions, including its work on the LikeAGirl campaign (pictured).
Email Nicola at nicolariches@yaffa.com.au.