WPP has unveiled a major strategic shift with the launch of WPP Media, a new global media company powered by artificial intelligence. This marks a significant transformation in the advertising landscape, responding to growing demand from marketers for integrated solutions that harness AI to deliver personalized content at scale. WPP Media replaces GroupM as the name of WPP’s global media operations.
Managing over $60 billion in annual media investment, WPP Media collaborates with more than 75% of the world’s top advertisers across 80+ markets. While the GroupM name is being retired, key agency brands—Mindshare, Wavemaker, and EssenceMediacom—will continue operating under the WPP Media umbrella. These agencies will maintain their client-focused teams while sharing common technologies, resources, and support systems.
At the core of WPP Media’s offering is WPP Open, the company’s proprietary AI-driven marketing platform. Designed to connect media with the broader WPP network, WPP Open facilitates integrated solutions across creative, production, commerce, data, and media. It is supported by a £300 million annual investment and strategic partnerships with leading AI firms—highlighting WPP’s dedication to innovation.
This unified model allows clients to streamline their efforts across owned, earned, shared, and paid media, enabling true personalization at scale. The company’s capabilities are further enhanced through advanced analytics and connected commerce solutions.
WPP Media is also investing in the future of talent, committing to learning and development programs that equip employees with the skills needed for the evolving AI-driven marketing landscape.
“Consumers already expect advertising to be personalized and seamless—and that expectation will only intensify with AI,” said Brian Lesser, CEO of WPP Media. “WPP Media is built for a world where media is ubiquitous. By integrating AI, data, and talent, we help clients stay ahead of changing consumer behavior and tap into the immense growth potential AI enables.”
Mark Read, CEO of WPP, added, “WPP is the ideal partner for brands in the AI era, where technology meets talent. WPP Media reflects our commitment to simpler, more integrated solutions, replacing the scale-focused model of GroupM with one built around data, technology, and agility. Our vision is clear: marketing that is data-driven, delivered by connected, expert teams, and full of new opportunities for clients.”