WPP

WPP plc is a British multinational communications, advertising, public relations, technology, and commerce holding company. Headquartered in London, England, it is recognized as the world's largest advertising company as of 2023. WPP owns a vast network of companies, including well-known advertising, public relations, media, and market research agencies such as AKQA, BCW, CMI Media Group, EssenceMediacom, Finsbury, Grey, Hill & Knowlton, Mindshare, Ogilvy, Wavemaker, and VML. This extensive portfolio positions WPP as one of the 'Big Four' agency companies globally, alongside Publicis, The Interpublic Group of Companies, and Omnicom Group. The company has a primary listing on the London Stock Exchange and is a constituent of the FTSE 100 Index.

Originally founded as Wire and Plastic Products plc in 1971 to manufacture wire shopping baskets, the company's trajectory shifted dramatically in 1985 when Martin Sorrell and Preston Rabl acquired a controlling stake with the vision of building a worldwide marketing services company. Under Sorrell's leadership, WPP embarked on a strategy of aggressive growth through acquisitions, purchasing numerous companies annually across various sectors including healthcare advertising, digital marketing, online shopping, digital media, data management, retail and corporate consultancy, and sports marketing. Key acquisitions included J. Walter Thompson in 1987 and Ogilvy Group in 1989. In May 2000, WPP acquired Young & Rubicam Group, which at the time was the largest takeover in the advertising sector, making WPP the world's largest advertising company by billings and revenue. Mark Read was appointed CEO in September 2018, succeeding Martin Sorrell. WPP focuses on communications, experience, commerce, and technology, delivering transformational results for many of the world's largest companies, including over 300 of the Fortune 500. The company is committed to fostering a culture of creativity, belonging, and continuous learning, empowering its teams to deliver outstanding results for its clients. WPP's services include integrated networks, media, data and insights, public relations and public affairs, brand consulting, production, and health and wellness.