M&C Saatchi sees improving trading momentum, expects annual results in line

Sept 22 (Reuters) - British advertising group M&C Saatchi SAA.L said on Tuesday that trading momentum was improving, with second-quarter revenue returning to growth, as it forecast annual results in line with market expectations.

“The tough trading environment experienced in the second half of 2025 continued into the first quarter, but trading has progressively improved since with the second quarter returning to modest top-line growth," Executive Chair, Dame Heather Rabbatts, said in a statement.

Like-for-like net revenue declined 1.4% in the six months to June 30, with second-quarter sales logging modest growth driven by its data and technology, media and US and UK advertising businesses.

The conflict in the Middle East continues to have a significant impact on the Group’s sports and entertainment and consumer-facing businesses in the region, M&C Saatchi said, as the seven-month old Iran war rattles business confidence, leading to event cancellations and delayed projects.