AD Agencies
The International Advertising Association (IAA) inducted Prasoon Joshi into the hall of fame
MUMBAI: McCann Worldgroup India of McCann Worldgroup Asia Pacific chairman, CEO and chief creative officer, Prasoon Joshi joins a globally esteemed group of individuals recognised for shaping the future of marketing and communications.
Established to celebrate pioneers who have advanced the advertising profession and inspired generations, the International Advertising Association (IAA) Hall of Fame includes among its ranks the industry’s most respected figures.
Inductees are selected by a global panel based on their lifetime achievements and their influence on the direction of marketing communications in their region and beyond. The induction acknowledges Joshi’s extraordinary contributions as an industry leader, cultural commentator, and voice of purposeful storytelling in India and beyond.
The IAA Leadership Awards Hall of Fame honoured Prasoon Joshi for his exceptional and multifaceted contributions across advertising, film, music, and public service; for visionary campaigns that blend creativity, culture, and emotion; for shaping Indian cinema and storytelling with poetic depth; for transformative leadership as CBFC chairperson; for championing social causes; and for inspiring meaningful change in the industry.
Known for his deep sensitivity to social issues and his ability to elevate brands through human insight and emotion, Joshi has earned acclaim for work that consistently blends creative bravery with cultural integrity. Joshi’s career spans more than two decades across Advertising, Cinema, Music, Literature, and policy.
In response to the honour, Joshi said, “Being inducted into the IAA Hall of Fame is a privilege and affirms what I have always believed: communication and creativity are not mere marketing tools – they are forces that shape perspectives and inspire thought. Advertising, in particular, both mirrors, and shapes popular culture. To be recognised alongside those who have defined the spirit of our industry is an honour and reminder of the responsibility to keep pushing the boundaries of ideas and impact . My thanks to the IAA and to the collaborators who have been part of this journey.”
AD Agencies
Publicis posts €4.19bn Q1 revenue, 6.4 per cent growth; backs FY outlook
Ad giant signals Q2 acceleration as AI and new deals power momentum
PARIS: Publicis Groupe continues to outperform the industry, delivering a strong start to 2026 under Chairman and CEO Arthur Sadoun. Despite a volatile global macro environment, the company has now outpaced the industry for nearly 20 consecutive quarters.
For Q1 2026, total revenue reached €4,191 million, up from €4,161 million last year, with organic growth of 6.4 per cent. Net revenue, which excludes pass-through costs, stood at €3,460 million, reflecting organic growth of 4.5 per cent.
Exchange rates had a negative impact of €268 million, mainly due to a weaker US dollar and pound sterling. Acquisitions, including Adge.AI and 160over90, contributed an additional €46 million.
Performance across regions was largely positive, with some variation:
- North America, accounting for 59 per cent of net revenue, grew 4.7 per cent
- Europe recorded growth of 3.9 per cent, led by the UK at 6.2 per cent, while France grew 1.6 per cent
- Asia Pacific posted 5.9 per cent growth, driven by China at 11.7 per cent
- Latin America grew 13.3 per cent
- Middle East and Africa declined 5.1 per cent due to geopolitical challenges
AI-powered marketing services, which now make up 86 per cent of the business, grew 5.6 per cent. However, the technology segment, representing 14 per cent of revenue, declined slightly as clients reduced spending on large-scale transformation projects.
Sharing his outlook, Publicis Groupe chairman and CEO Arthur Sadoun said, “Publicis had a very strong start to the year, outperforming the industry for almost 20 quarters in a row despite the volatile macro environment. Organic revenue growth reached 6.4%, leading to 4.5% in net and further increasing the gap with our peers.” He added that the company remains confident of delivering industry-leading performance. “We are confirming our industry-leading organic growth guidance of 4 to 5%, with the 4% rock solid, and a sequential organic growth acceleration in Q2 despite a higher comparable.”
Publicis continued its expansion with the acquisition of Adge.AI in March, followed by 160over90 in April to strengthen its sports and culture marketing capabilities.
Net financial debt stood at €1,156 million at the end of March, reflecting a seasonal shift from the net cash position at the end of 2025. Average net debt over the past twelve months was €1,035 million.
The company has reaffirmed its full-year guidance, expecting net revenue organic growth of 4 to 5 per cent in 2026. It also anticipates an operating margin slightly above 18.2 per cent and free cash flow of approximately €2.1 billion.
With expectations of stronger performance in the second quarter, Publicis remains well positioned to sustain its growth momentum.
