WPP plans to cut hundreds more jobs this year as its restructuring continues - Ad Age

WPP, the advertising holding company behind agencies such as VML, announced plans to cut hundreds of additional jobs this year as part of its ongoing restructuring. Employees at VML were informed on the day of the announcement that their roles would be affected. The company described the cuts as necessary to streamline operations and reduce costs, continuing a trend of workforce reductions.

The exact number of positions to be eliminated was not specified, with WPP referring only to "hundreds." The restructuring is expected to continue through the end of 2026, according to the company's plans. These layoffs are part of a broader cost-cutting initiative that has included agency mergers and operational consolidation. WPP has been under pressure from investors to improve margins.

WPP's restructuring comes amid a challenging advertising market, with clients tightening budgets and the increasing use of AI tools for creative tasks. The company has been merging agencies and consolidating functions to simplify its structure. The latest job cuts are aimed at positioning WPP for future competitiveness and improving efficiency. The company stated that the restructuring will help it adapt to changing market conditions.