20-F/A

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

FORM 20-F/A

(Amendment No.1)

(Mark One)

☐ REGISTRATION STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(b) OR (g) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

OR

☒ ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the fiscal year ended 31 December 2019

OR

☐ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

OR

☐ SHELL COMPANY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

Date of event requiring this shell company report                 

For the transition period from                  to                 

Commission file number 001-38303

WPP plc

(Exact Name of Registrant as specified in its charter)

Jersey

(Jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)

Sea Containers, 18 Upper Ground

London, United Kingdom, SE1 9GL

(Address of principal executive offices)

Andrea Harris

Group Chief Counsel

Sea Containers, 18 Upper Ground, London, United Kingdom, SE1 9GL

Telephone: +44(0) 20 7282 4600

E-mail: andrea.harris@wpp.com

(Name, Telephone, E-mail and/or Facsimile number and Address of Company Contact Person)

Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act.

Title of each class	Trading Symbol (s)	Name of each exchange on which registered
Ordinary Shares of 10p each American Depositary Shares, each representing five Ordinary Shares (ADSs)	WPP WPP	London Stock Exchange New York Stock Exchange

Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act.

Not applicable

(Title of Class)

Not applicable

(Title of Class)

Securities for which there is a reporting obligation pursuant to Section 15(d) of the Act.

None

(Title of Class)

Indicate the number of outstanding shares of each of the issuer’s classes of capital or common stock as of the close of the period covered by the annual report.

At December 31, 2019, the number of outstanding ordinary shares was 1,328,167,813 which included at such date ordinary shares represented by 15,699,064 ADSs.

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.

YES  ☒    NO  ☐

If this report is an annual or transition report, indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

YES  ☐    NO  ☒

Note – Checking the box above will not relieve any registrant required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 from their obligations under those Sections.

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.

YES  ☒    NO  ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).

YES  ☒    NO  ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer, or an emerging growth company. See definition of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

Large accelerated filer	☒	Accelerated filer	☐
Non-accelerated filer	☐	Emerging growth company	☐

If an emerging growth company that prepares its financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards† provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act.    ☐

† The term “new or revised financial accounting standard” refers to any update issued by the Financial Accounting Standards Board to its Accounting Standards Codification after April 5, 2012.

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has filed a report on and attestation to its management’s assessment of the effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting under Section 404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (15 U.S.C. 7262(b)) by the registered public accounting firm that prepared or issued its audit report.

☒

Indicate by check mark which basis of accounting the registrant has used to prepare the financial statements included in this filing:

U.S. GAAP  ☐ International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the
International Accounting Standards Board  ☒ Other  ☐

If “Other” has been checked in response to the previous question, indicate by check mark which financial statement item the registrant has elected to follow.

Item 17  ☐    Item 18  ☐

If this is an annual report, indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).

YES  ☐    NO  ☒

TABLE OF CONTENTS

			Page
EXPLANATORY NOTE				1
FORWARD – LOOKING STATEMENTS				2
Part I				2
Item 1	IDENTITY OF DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND ADVISERS			2
Item 2	OFFER STATISTICS AND EXPECTED TIMETABLE			2
Item 3	KEY INFORMATION			3
	A	Selected Financial Data		3
	B	Capitalization and Indebtedness		5
	C	Reasons for the Offer and Use of Proceeds		5
	D	Risk Factors		6
Item 4	INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY			9
	A	History and Development of the Company		10
	B	Business Overview		11
	C	Organizational Structure		17
	D	Property, Plant and Equipment		17
Item 4A	UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS			18
Item 5	OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS			18
	A	Operating Results		18
	B	Liquidity and Capital Resources		26
	C	Research and Development, Patents and Licenses, etc.		30
	D	Trend Information		30
	E	Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements		31
	F	Tabular Disclosure of Contractual Obligations		31
Item 6	DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND EMPLOYEES			42
	A	Directors and Senior Management		42
	B	Compensation		44
	C	Board Practices		48
	D	Employees		56
	E	Share Ownership		57
Item 7	MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS			58
	A	Major Shareholders		58
	B	Related Party Transactions		59
	C	Interests of Experts and Counsel		59
Item 8	FINANCIAL INFORMATION			59
	A	Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information		59
	B	Significant Changes		59
Item 9	THE OFFER AND LISTING			60
	A	Offer and Listing Details		60
	B	Plan of Distribution		60
	C	Markets		60
	D	Selling Shareholders		60
	E	Dilution		60
	F	Expenses of the Issue		60

			Page
Item 10	ADDITIONAL INFORMATION			60
	A	Share Capital		60
	B	Memorandum and Articles of Association		60
	C	Material Contracts		60
	D	Exchange Controls		64
	E	Taxation		64
	F	Dividends and Paying Agents		70
	G	Statements by Experts		70
	H	Documents on Display		70
	I	Subsidiary Information		70
Item 11	QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK			71
Item 12	DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES OTHER THAN EQUITY SECURITIES			71
	A	Debt Securities		71
	B	Warrants and Rights		71
	C	Other Securities		71
	D	American Depositary Shares		72
Part II				74
Item 13	DEFAULTS, DIVIDEND ARREARAGES AND DELINQUENCIES			74
Item 14	MATERIAL MODIFICATIONS TO THE RIGHTS OF SECURITY HOLDERS AND USE OF PROCEEDS			74
Item 15	CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES			74
Item 16A	AUDIT COMMITTEE FINANCIAL EXPERT			78
Item 16B	CODE OF ETHICS			78
Item 16C	PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES			79
Item 16D	EXEMPTIONS FROM THE LISTING STANDARDS FOR AUDIT COMMITTEES			79
Item 16E	PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES BY THE ISSUER AND AFFILIATED PURCHASERS			80
Item 16F	CHANGE IN REGISTRANT’S CERTIFYING ACCOUNTANT			80
Item 16G	CORPORATE GOVERNANCE			80
Item 16H	MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURE			81
Part III				81
Item 17	FINANCIAL STATEMENTS			81
Item 18	FINANCIAL STATEMENTS			82
Item 19	EXHIBITS			82

Explanatory Note

This Amendment on Form 20-F/A is being filed by WPP plc (“the Company”) as Amendment No. 1 (this “Amendment”) to its annual report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended 31 December 2019 (the “Original Filing”) originally filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on 30 April 2020 (the “Original Filing Date”). As indicated on our Form 6-K furnished to the SEC on 14 December 2020, it was determined that the Company’s previously issued financial statements for the years ended 31 December 2019, 2018 and 2017 contained errors with respect to certain aspects of the application of IAS 32 Financial Instruments: Presentation and IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, resulting in the incorrect presentation of the Company’s notional cash pooling arrangements on the balance sheet and the inappropriate deferral of foreign exchange movements in the Company’s translation reserve due to the inappropriate application of hedge accounting in respect of non-derivative financial instruments, respectively. We have also determined that the discount rate used in the calculation of the present value of the expected cash outflows in respect of put option agreements and payments due to vendors (earnout agreements) did not fully reflect the risk in the associated cash flows.

To correct these errors, in this Amendment we are restating our consolidated balance sheets as at 31 December 2019, 2018 and 2017, and our consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, and changes in equity for the years ended 31 December 2019, 2018 and 2017. The consolidated balance sheet as at 31 December 2017 has been included and restated in this Amendment to comply with the requirements of IFRS as a result of the restatement. The consolidated financial statements as at and for the years ended 31 December 2019, 2018 and 2017 are collectively referred to as the “Restated Financial Statements”. The adjustments to correct the notional cash pooling matters were limited to balance sheet adjustments in both cash and short-term deposits and bank overdrafts, bonds and bank loans that result in an aggregate increase in both of £8.337 billion, £8.423 billion and £9.460 billion in the Company’s consolidated balance sheets as at 31 December 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively. The adjustments to correct the net investment hedging matters have resulted in reclassifying exchange adjustments on foreign currency net investments within the Company’s consolidated statement of comprehensive income to be reported together with revaluation of financial instruments on the face of the Company’s consolidated income statement as revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments and separately disclosed in the notes to the consolidated financial statements, amounting to a £245.7 million gain, £205.1 million loss and £194.6 million gain for the years ended 31 December 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively. Corresponding adjustments to other reserves and retained earnings on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets and statements of changes in equity were made. This change also reduced the opening retained earnings balance as at 1 January 2017 by £506.9 million with a corresponding increase in other reserves. The adjustments to correct the put option and payments due to vendors (earnout) discount rate have resulted in adjustments to the Company’s consolidated balance sheet, decreasing trade and other payables (current and non-current liabilities) by £32.4 million, £47.9 million and £82.6 million as at 31 December 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively; increasing other reserves by £59.6 million, £51.5 million and £45.1 million as at 31 December 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively; and decreasing intangible assets: goodwill by £60.1 million, £70.2 million and £78.3 million as at 31 December 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively. The Company’s consolidated income statement has also been adjusted to reflect charges to revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments of £13.5 million, £40.6 million and £47.5 million for the years ended 31 December 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively and a £7.4 million reduction in the goodwill impairment charge for the year ended 31 December 2018. Corresponding adjustments to retained earnings on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets and statements of changes in equity were made. These changes also increased the opening retained earnings balance as at 1 January 2017 by £6.8 million. These adjustments are described more fully in the accounting policies discussion and notes 3, 6, 14 and 27 of the accompanying consolidated financial statements.

In addition to the Restated Financial Statements, this amendment is being filed to amend Items 3A “Key information – Selected Financial Data”, 3D “Key Information – Risk Factors – Internal control over financial reporting”, 5 “Operating and Financial Review and Prospects”, 6 “Directors, Senior Management and Employees – C. Board Practices – Audit Committee – Financial reporting and significant financial judgements – Goodwill impairments”, 6 “Directors, Senior Management and Employees – C. Board Practices – Audit Committee – Internal financial control”, 15 “Controls and Procedures”, 18 “Financial Statements”, and 19 “Exhibits”, in each case, solely to make appropriate changes to reflect the corrections made in the Restated Financial Statements, the effects of those corrections and other related matters. As described more fully in Item 15, as a result of the filing of the Restated Financial Statements, our management has updated its assessments as

1

of 31 December 2019 of our disclosure controls and procedures and our internal control over financial reporting and the bases for why neither was effective as at 31 December 2019. This Amendment also includes currently dated certifications from our Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer, as required by Sections 302 and 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, and amended reports of our independent registered public accounting firm relating to the audit of the Restated Financial Statements and of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting. We have made no other changes to our Original Filing, and the other Items and disclosures included in this Amendment are included for the convenience of the reader only and have not been updated to reflect events occurring after the Original Filing Date. Accordingly, except as expressly modified to reflect the impact of the corrections made in the Restated Financial Statements, this Amendment continues to speak only as of the Original Filing Date.

Since this Amendment restates the financial information for the 2018 and 2017 fiscal years, we do not intend to amend our previously filed Annual Reports on Form 20-F for periods ended prior to 31 December 2019. As a result, you should rely upon the Restated Financial Statements contained in this Amendment with respect to such prior fiscal years. In addition, we are furnishing a Form 6-K/A to similarly restate our condensed consolidated balance sheets as at 30 June 2020 and 2019 and 31 December 2019, and our condensed consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, changes in equity for the six months ended 30 June 2020 and 2019 and the year ended 31 December 2019. Please refer to that report for further detail and review the Original Filing and this Amendment together with that report.

Forward-Looking Statements

In connection with the provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (the Reform Act), the Company (as defined below) may include forward-looking statements (as defined in the Reform Act) in oral or written public statements issued by or on behalf of the Company. These forward-looking statements may include, among other things, plans, objectives, projections and anticipated future economic performance based on assumptions and the like that are subject to risks and uncertainties. As such, actual results or outcomes may differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements. Important factors which may cause actual results to differ include but are not limited to: the unanticipated loss of a material client or key personnel, delays or reductions in client advertising budgets, shifts in industry rates of compensation, regulatory compliance costs or litigation, natural disasters or acts of terrorism, the Company’s exposure to changes in the values of major currencies other than the UK pound sterling (because a substantial portion of its revenues are derived and costs incurred outside of the United Kingdom) and the overall level of economic activity in the Company’s major markets (which varies depending on, among other things, regional, national and international political and economic conditions and government regulations in the world’s advertising markets). In addition, you should consider the risks described in Item 3D, captioned “Risk Factors,” which could also cause actual results to differ from forward-looking information. In light of these and other uncertainties, the forward-looking statements included in this document should not be regarded as a representation by the Company that the Company’s plans and objectives will be achieved.

The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any such forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

PART I

ITEM 1. IDENTITY OF DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND ADVISERS

Not applicable.

ITEM 2. OFFER STATISTICS AND EXPECTED TIMETABLE

Not applicable.

2

ITEM 3. KEY INFORMATION

Overview

WPP plc and its subsidiaries (WPP) is a leading worldwide creative transformation organisation offering national and multinational clients a comprehensive range of communications, experience, commerce and technology services. At 31 December 2019, the Group, excluding associates, had 106,786 employees. For the year ended 31 December 2019, the Group had revenue of £13,234.1 million and operating profit of £1,295.9 million.

Unless the context otherwise requires, the terms “Company”, “Group” and “Registrant” as used herein shall also mean WPP.

A. Selected Financial Data

The selected financial data should be read in conjunction with, and is qualified in its entirety by reference to, the consolidated financial statements of the Company, including the notes thereto.

The selected income statement data for each of the years ended 31 December 2019, 2018 and 2017 and the selected balance sheet data as at 31 December 2019 and 2018 are derived from the consolidated financial statements of the Company that appear elsewhere in this Form 20-F/A. The selected financial data for prior periods is derived from unaudited consolidated financial statements of the Company. The consolidated financial statements were prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB).

The reporting currency of the Group is the UK pound sterling and the selected financial data has been prepared on this basis.

3

Selected Consolidated Income Statement Data

	Year ended 31 December
	20191,2 £m			20181,3 £m			20171,3,4 £m			20161,4 £m			20151 £m
Continuing operations:
Revenue		13,234.1			13,046.7			13,146.4			14,887.3			12,235.2
Operating profit		1,295.9			1,245.3			1,577.9			2,063.1			1,632.0
Profit for the year from continuing operations		939.3			763.3			1,811.0			786.8			1,354.7
Profit for the year		950.1			901.1			2,059.4			786.8			1,354.7
Share information:
Earnings per ordinary share from continuing and discontinued operations:
Basic		68.5	p		66.1	p		155.7	p		61.6	p		105.1	p
Diluted		67.9	p		65.4	p		153.9	p		60.7	p		103.2	p
Earnings per ordinary share from continuing operations:
Basic		68.8	p		56.0	p		136.9	p		61.6	p		105.1	p
Diluted		68.2	p		55.4	p		135.3	p		60.7	p		103.2	p
Earnings per ADS5 from continuing operations:
Basic		344.0	p		280.0	p		684.5	p		308.0	p		525.5	p
Diluted		341.0	p		277.0	p		676.5	p		303.5	p		516.0	p
Dividends per ordinary share		60.00	p		60.00	p		59.75	p		48.33	p		42.49	p
Dividends per ADS (US dollars)6		393.88	¢		391.87	¢		397.23	¢		352.41	¢		340.57	¢
1  Figures have been restated as described in the accounting policies section of the consolidated financial statements. Figures for 2016 and 2015 have not been restated to reflect the impact of the change in the discount rate used in the calculation of the present value of the expected cash outflows in respect of put option agreements and payments due to vendors (earnout agreements). 2  The impact of the adoption of IFRS 16 Leases from 1 January 2019 is described in the accounting policies section of the consolidated financial statements. No restatement has been made in prior years. 3  Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies section of the consolidated financial statements. No restatement has been made in 2016 or 2015. 4  2017 and 2016 figures were restated for the adoption of IFRS 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers in the 2018 Form 20-F. No restatement was made in 2015. 5  Basic and diluted earnings per American Depositary Share (ADS) have been calculated using the same method as earnings per share, multiplied by a factor of five. 6  These figures have been translated for convenience purposes only, using the approximate average exchange rates of US$1.2765 to pound sterling for the year 2019 (2018: US$1.3351, 2017: US$1.2887, 2016: US$1.3547, 2015: US$1.5288). This conversion should not be construed as a representation that the pound sterling amounts actually represent, or could be converted into, US dollars at the rates indicated.

4

Selected Consolidated Balance Sheet Data

	At 31 December
	20191,4 £m		20181,2,4 £m		20171,3 £m		20161,3 £m		20151 £m
Total assets		39,605.4		42,220.1		43,044.1		41,046.5		36,744.7
Net assets		8,415.8		9,784.3		9,960.5		9,812.2		8,015.8
Called-up share capital		132.8		133.3		133.3		133.2		132.9
Number of shares (in millions)		1,328.2		1,332.7		1,332.5		1,331.9		1,329.4
1   Figures have been restated as described in the accounting policies section of the consolidated financial statements. Figures for 2016 and 2015 have not been restated to reflect the impact of the change in the discount rate used in the calculation of the present value of the expected cash outflows in respect of put option agreements and payments due to vendors (earnout agreements). 2   The impact of the adoption of IFRS 16 Leases from 1 January 2019 is described in the accounting policies section of the consolidated financial statements. No restatement has been made in prior years. 3   IFRS 9 Financial Instruments was adopted from 1 January 2018. No restatement has been made for years prior to 2018. 4   2017 and 2016 figures were restated for the adoption of IFRS 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers in the 2018 Form 20-F. No restatement was made in 2015.

Dividends

Dividends on the Company’s ordinary shares, when paid, are paid to share owners as of a record date, which is fixed by the Company. The following table sets forth the amounts of interim or first interim, final or second interim and total dividends paid on the Company’s ordinary shares in respect of each fiscal year indicated. In the United States, the Company’s ordinary shares are represented by ADSs, which are evidenced by American Depositary Receipts (ADRs) or held in book-entry form. The Group uses the terms ‘ADS’ and ‘ADR’ interchangeably.

The dividends are also shown translated into US cents per ADS using the approximate average rates as shown on page 3, for each year presented.

	Pence per ordinary share						US cents per ADS
In respect of the year ended 31 December:	Interim or First Interim		Final or Second Interim		Total		Interim or First Interim		Final or Second Interim		Total
2015		15.91		28.78		44.69		121.62		219.99		341.61
2016		19.55		37.05		56.60		132.42		250.96		383.38
2017		22.70		37.30		60.00		146.27		240.34		386.61
2018		22.70		37.30		60.00		151.53		249.00		400.53
2019		22.70		—		22.70		144.88		—		144.88

The 2019 interim dividend was paid on 4 November 2019 to share owners on the register at 4 October 2019. Given the significant uncertainty over the coming months of the impact of Covid-19, we are taking prudent action now to maintain our liquidity and ensure that we emerge from this global crisis strong, secure and ready to meet the continuing needs of our clients, shareholders and other stakeholders. Therefore, the Board is suspending the 2019 final dividend of 37.30 pence per share, which was due to be proposed at the 2020 Annual General Meeting (AGM).

B. Capitalization and Indebtedness

Not applicable.

C. Reasons for the Offer and Use of Proceeds

Not applicable.

5

D. Risk Factors

The Company is subject to a variety of possible risks that could adversely impact its revenues, results of operations, reputation or financial condition. Some of these risks relate to the industries in which the Company operates while others are more specific to the Company. The table below sets out principal risks the Company has identified that could adversely affect it. See also the discussion of Forward-Looking Statements preceding Item 1.

Principal risk	Potential impact
Covid-19 Pandemic
The coronavirus pandemic is adversely affecting and is expected to continue to adversely affect our business, revenues, results of operations, financial condition and prospects.	While we expect the impacts of Covid-19 to have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations, we are unable to predict the extent or nature or duration of these impacts at this time.
Strategic risks
The failure to successfully complete the three-year strategic plan to return the business to growth by the end of 2021 and simplify our structure.	A failure or delay in completing the transformation plan and/or returning the business to growth, may have a material adverse effect on our market share and our business, revenues, results of operations, financial condition or prospects. The Covid-19 pandemic is impacting the implementation of the transformation plan, and we cannot predict the extent or duration of the impact.
Operational risks
Clients
We compete for clients in a highly-competitive industry which has been evolving and undergoing structural change and is being adversely impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic. Client loss to competitors or as a consequence of client consolidation, insolvency or a reduction in marketing budgets due to recessionary economic conditions or a shift in client spending would have a material adverse effect on our market share, business, revenues, results of operations, financial condition and prospects.	The competitive landscape in our industry is constantly evolving and the role of traditional agencies is being challenged. Competitors include multinational advertising and marketing communication groups, marketing services companies, database marketing information and measurement, social media and professional services and consultants and consulting internet companies. Client contracts can generally be terminated on 90 days’ notice or are on an assignment basis and clients put their business up for competitive review from time to time. The ability to attract new clients and to retain or increase the amount of work from existing clients may be impacted if we fail to react quickly enough to changes in the market and to evolve our structure, and by loss of reputation, and may be limited by clients’ policies on conflicts of interest. There are a range of different impacts on our clients globally as a consequence of the Covid-19 pandemic. In the short-term media spend has largely remained committed or diverted to alternative channels but there is an increasing volume of cancellations. Project and retained work have continued in most sectors but activity has begun to decline. New business pitches continue where the process was already underway, but there is increased uncertainty in the future pipeline. In the past, clients have responded to weak economic and financial conditions by reducing or shifting their marketing budgets which are easier to reduce in the short term than their other operating expenses. The risk of client loss or reduction in marketing budgets has increased significantly.
We receive a significant portion of our revenues from a limited number of large clients and the net loss of one or more of these clients could have a material adverse effect on our prospects, business, financial condition and results of operations.	A relatively small number of clients contribute a significant percentage of our consolidated revenues. Our 10 largest clients accounted for 15% of revenues in the year ended 31 December 2019. Clients can reduce their marketing spend, terminate contracts, or cancel projects on short notice. The loss of one or more of our largest clients, if not replaced by new accounts or an increase in business from existing clients, would adversely affect our financial condition.

6

Principal risk	Potential impact
People, culture and succession
Our performance could be adversely affected if we do not react quickly enough to changes in our market and fail to attract, develop and retain key creative, commercial and management talent, or are unable to retain and incentivise key talent as a consequence of the cost saving actions implemented to maintain liquidity during the Covid-19 pandemic and reduction in economic activity.	We are highly dependent on the talent, creative abilities and technical skills of our people as well as their relationships with clients. We are vulnerable to the loss of people to competitors (traditional and emerging) and clients, leading to disruption to the business. To maintain our liquidity position through the current crisis, cost reduction measures have already been taken which impact our people include freezing new hires, postponing salary increases for 2020 and reducing salaries or fees for the Board, Executive Committee, CEO and senior employees. Further additional measures including reduced working hours or severances will also be required which may lead to challenges in retaining and attracting key talent during this period of disruption and at the beginning of a recovery.
Cyber and information security
We are undertaking a series of IT transformation programmes to support the Group’s strategic plan and a failure or delay in implementing the IT programmes may have a material adverse effect on its business, revenues, results of operations, financial conditions or prospects. The Group is reliant on third parties for the performance of a significant portion of our worldwide information technology and operations functions. A failure to provide these functions could have an adverse effect on our business. During the transformation, we are still reliant on legacy systems which could restrict our ability to change rapidly. A cyber-attack could result in disruption to one or more of our businesses or the security of data being compromised.	We may be subject to investigative or enforcement action or legal claims or incur fines, damages, or costs and client loss if we fail to adequately protect data. A system breakdown or intrusion could have a material adverse effect on our business, revenues, results of operations, financial condition or prospects and have an impact on long-term reputation and lead to client loss. Nearly 95% of the Group’s people are working remotely as a consequence of the Covid-19 pandemic which has the potential to increase the risk of compromised data security and cyber-attacks.
Financial risks
Credit risk
We are subject to credit risk through the default of a client or other counterparty.	We are generally paid in arrears for our services. Invoices are typically payable within 30 to 60 days. We commit to media and production purchases on behalf of some of our clients as principal or agent depending on the client and market circumstances. If a client is unable to pay sums due, media and production companies may look to us to pay those amounts and there could be an adverse effect on our working capital and operating cash flow. A significant number of our clients and suppliers are adversely financially impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic and economic inactivity across markets in periods of lockdown. Clients may seek to renegotiate payment terms, ask for discounts or fail to honour their payment obligations which would have an adverse impact on our working capital and operating cash flow.
Internal controls
Our performance could be adversely impacted if we fail to ensure adequate internal control procedures are in place.	Failure to ensure that our businesses have robust control environments, or that the services we provide and trading activities within the Group are compliant with client obligations, could adversely impact client relationships and business volumes and revenues.

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Principal risk	Potential impact
Internal control over financial reporting
The Group has identified material weaknesses in its internal control over financial reporting that, if not properly remediated, could adversely affect its results of operations, investor confidence in the Group and the market price of its ADSs.	As disclosed in Part II, Item 15 of this Form 20-F/A, in connection with the Group’s assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2019, the Group has identified material weaknesses in its internal control over financial reporting with respect to management’s review of the impairment assessment of intangible assets and goodwill, specifically the selection of appropriate discount rates for use in the impairment calculations and the determination of the appropriateness of the cash flow periods and associated discounting in the impairment calculation; the design and implementation of internal controls to ensure that the complex accounting matters and judgements are assessed against the requirements of IFRS; monitoring changes in the applicable accounting standards and interpretations or changes in the underlying business on a timely basis; and our net investment hedging arrangements, concerning the eligibility of hedging relationships under IFRS, the adequacy and maintenance of contemporaneous documentation of the application of hedge accounting, and the review of the impact of changes in internal financing structures on such hedging relationships. As a result of such material weaknesses, the Group concluded that its internal control over financial reporting was not effective. Certain of these material weaknesses resulted in the restatement of our consolidated financial statements as of and for the years ended 31 December 2019, 2018 and 2017, as further described in Part II, Item 15 of this Form 20-F/A. As further described in Part II, Item 15 of this Form 20-F/A, the Group is currently taking actions to design and implement remediation plans to address the material weaknesses. If remedial measures are insufficient to address the material weaknesses, or if additional material weaknesses in internal control are discovered or occur in the future, the Group’s ability to accurately record, process and report financial information and consequently, its ability to prepare financial statements within required time periods, could be adversely affected. In addition, the Group may be unable to maintain compliance with the federal securities laws and NYSE listing requirements regarding the timely filing of periodic reports. Any of the foregoing could cause investors to lose confidence in the reliability of the Group’s financial reporting, which could have a negative effect on the trading price of the Group’s ADSs.
Compliance risks
Data Privacy
We are subject to strict data protection and privacy legislation in the jurisdictions in which we operate and rely extensively on information technology systems. We store, transmit and rely on critical and sensitive data such as strategic plans, personally identifiable information and trade secrets. Security of this type of data is exposed to escalating external threats that are increasing in sophistication, as well as internal data breaches. Existing and new data protection laws, GDPR and the CCPA and legislation in the markets in which we operate concerning user privacy, use of personal information, consent and online tracking may restrict some of our activities and increase costs. Privacy regulators have continued to underline the obligation on businesses to ensure continued compliance with data privacy legislation during the Covid-19 pandemic.	We may be subject to investigative or enforcement action or legal claims or incur fines, damages, or costs and client loss if we fail to adequately protect data or observe privacy legislation in every instance. A system breakdown or intrusion could have a material adverse effect on our business, revenues, results of operations, financial condition or prospects. Governments and public health officials have mandated precautions to mitigate the spread of Covid-19 including lock-downs and remote working. Nearly 95% of our people are working which has the potential to increase the risk of compromised data securities.

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Principal risk	Potential impact
Compliance risks
Taxation
We may be subject to regulations restricting our activities or effecting changes in taxation.	Changes in local or international tax rules, for example as a consequence of the financial support programmes being implemented by governments during the Covid-19 crisis, changes arising from the application of existing rules, or challenges by tax or competition authorities, for example, the European Commission’s State Aid decision into the Group Financing Exemption in the UK CFC rules, may expose us to significant additional tax liabilities or impact the carrying value of our deferred tax assets, which would affect the future tax charge.
Regulatory
We are subject to strict anti-corruption, anti-bribery and anti-trust legislation and enforcement in the countries in which we operate.	We operate in a number of markets where the corruption risk has been identified as high by groups such as Transparency International. Failure to comply or to create a culture opposed to corruption or failing to instil business practices that prevent corruption could expose us to civil and criminal sanctions.
Sanctions
We are subject to the laws of the US, the EU and other jurisdictions that impose sanctions and regulate the supply of services to certain countries.	Failure to comply with these laws could expose us to civil and criminal penalties including fines and the imposition of economic sanctions against us and reputational damage and withdrawal of banking facilities which could materially impact our results.
Civil liabilities or judgements against the Company or its directors or officers based on United States federal or state securities laws may not be enforceable in the United States or in England and Wales or in Jersey.	The Company is a public limited company incorporated under the laws of Jersey. Some of the Company’s directors and officers reside outside of the United States. In addition, a substantial portion of the directly owned assets of the Company are located outside of the United States. As a result, it may be difficult or impossible for investors to effect service of process within the United States against the Company or its directors and officers or to enforce against them any of the judgements, including those obtained in original actions or in actions to enforce judgements of the U.S. courts, predicated upon the civil liability provisions of the federal or state securities laws of the United States.
Emerging risks
Increased frequency of extreme weather and climate-related natural disasters.	This includes storms, flooding, wildfires and water and heat stress which can damage our buildings, jeopardise the safety of our people and significantly disrupt our operations. At present 9% of our headcount are located in countries at “extreme” risk from the physical impacts of climate change in the next 30 years.
Increased reputational risk associated with working on environmentally detrimental client briefs.	As consumer consciousness around climate change rises, our sector is seeing increased scrutiny for our role in contributing to consumption. Our clients seek expert partners who can give recommendations that take into account stakeholder concerns around climate change. Additionally, WPP serves some clients whose business models are under increased scrutiny. This creates both a reputational and related financial risk for WPP if we are not rigorous in our content standards as we grow our sustainability-related services.

ITEM 4. INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY

WPP’s is a leading worldwide creative transformation organisation offering national and multinational clients a comprehensive range of communications, experience, commerce and technology services. The Company provides these services through a number of established global, multinational and national operating companies that are organised into three reportable segments. The largest reportable segment is Global Integrated Agencies, which accounted for approximately 77% of the Company’s revenues in 2019. The remaining 23% of our revenues were derived from the reportable segments of Public Relations and Specialist Agencies. Excluding associates, the Company currently employs over 106,000 full-time people in 112 countries.

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The Company’s ordinary shares are admitted to the Official List of the UK Listing Authority and trade on the London Stock Exchange and American Depositary Shares (which are evidenced by ADRs or held in book-entry form) representing deposited ordinary shares are listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE). At 31 December 2019 the Company had a market capitalisation of approximately £13.410 billion.

The Company’s executive office is located at Sea Containers, 18 Upper Ground, London, United Kingdom, SE1 9GL, Tel:+44 (0)20 7282 4600 and its registered office is located at Queensway House, Hilgrove Street, St Helier, Jersey JE1 IES.

A. History and Development of the Company

WPP plc was incorporated in Jersey on 25 October 2012 under the name WPP 2012 plc.

On 2 January 2013, under a scheme of arrangement between WPP 2012 Limited (formerly known as WPP plc), (Old WPP), the former holding company of the Group, and its share owners pursuant to Article 125 of the Companies (Jersey) Law 1991, and as sanctioned by the Royal Court of Jersey (the Jersey Court), a Jersey incorporated and United Kingdom tax resident company, WPP 2012 plc became the new parent company of the WPP Group and adopted the name WPP plc. Under the scheme of arrangement, all the issued shares in Old WPP were cancelled and the same number of new shares were issued to WPP plc in consideration for the allotment to share owners of one share in WPP plc for each share in Old WPP held on the record date, 31 December 2012. Citibank, N.A., depositary for the ADSs representing Old WPP shares, cancelled Old WPP ADSs held in book-entry uncertificated form in the direct registration system maintained by it and issued ADSs representing shares of WPP plc in book entry uncertificated form in the direct registration system maintained by it to the holders. Holders of certificated ADSs, or ADRs, of Old WPP were entitled to receive ADSs of WPP plc upon surrender of the Old WPP ADSs, or ADRs, to the Depositary. Each Old WPP ADS represented five shares of Old WPP and each WPP plc ADS represents five shares of WPP plc.

Pursuant to Rule 12g-3 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the Exchange Act), WPP plc succeeded to Old WPP’s registration and periodic reporting obligations under the Exchange Act.

Old WPP was incorporated in Jersey on 12 September 2008 and became the holding company of the WPP Group on 19 November 2008 when the company now known as WPP 2008 Limited, the prior holding company of the WPP Group which was incorporated in England and Wales, completed a reorganisation of its capital and corporate structure. WPP 2008 Limited had become the holding company of the Group on 25 October 2005 when the company now known as WPP 2005 Limited, the original holding company of the WPP Group, completed a reorganisation of its capital and corporate structure. WPP 2005 Limited was incorporated and registered in England and Wales in 1971 and is a private limited company under the Companies Act 1985, and until 1985 operated as a manufacturer and distributor of wire and plastic products. In 1985, new investors acquired a significant interest in WPP and changed the strategic direction of the Company from being a wire and plastic products manufacturer and distributor to being a multinational communications services organisation. Since then, the Company has grown both organically and by the acquisition of companies, most significantly the acquisitions of J. Walter Thompson Group, Inc. (now known as J. Walter Thompson Company LLC) in 1987, The Ogilvy Group, Inc. (now known as The Ogilvy Group LLC) in 1989, Young & Rubicam Inc. (now known as Young & Rubicam LLC) in 2000, Tempus Group plc (Tempus) in 2001, Cordiant Communications Group plc (Cordiant) in 2003, Grey Global Group, LLC (Grey) in 2005, 24/7 Real Media Inc (now known as Xaxis LLC) in 2007, Taylor Nelson Sofres plc (TNS) in 2008, AKQA Holdings, Inc. (AKQA) in 2012, IBOPE Participações Ltda (IBOPE) in 2015, Triad Digital Media, LLC and the merger of most of the Group’s Australian and New Zealand assets with STW Communications Group Limited in Australia (re-named WPP AUNZ) in 2016. During 2018, the Company focused on simplifying its organisation with the completion of the merger of VML and Y&R to create VMLY&R as well as the merger of Burson-Marsteller and Cohn & Wolfe to create Burson Cohn & Wolfe. The merger of Wunderman and J. Walter Thompson to create Wunderman Thompson began at the end of 2018 and was finalized in 2019. In July 2019, the Company entered into an agreement to sell 60% of the Kantar group to Bain Capital Private Equity. The transaction was completed with respect to the sale of approximately 90% of

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the Kantar group in December 2019. Completion of the sale of the remaining approximately 10% of the Kantar group is expected to occur in 2020.

The Company received £1,917.0 million and £440.3 million and spent £228.8 million related to acquisitions and disposals in 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively, including proceeds on disposal of investments and subsidiaries, payments in respect of earnout payments resulting from acquisitions in prior years and net of cash and cash equivalents disposed. For the same periods, cash spent on purchases of property, plant and equipment and other intangible assets was £394.1 million, £375.2 million and £326.2 million, respectively, and cash spent on share repurchases and buybacks was £43.8 million, £207.1 million and £504.2 million, respectively.

The Company is subject to the informational requirements of the Exchange Act. In accordance with these requirements, the Company files reports and other information with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission. You may read and copy any materials filed with the SEC at www.sec.gov that contains reports, proxy statements and other information regarding registrants that file electronically with the SEC. The Company’s Form 20-F is also available on the Company’s website, www.wpp.com.

B. Business Overview

Introduction

Certain Non-GAAP measures included in this business overview and in the operating and financial review and prospects have been derived from amounts calculated in accordance with IFRS but are not themselves IFRS measures. They should not be viewed in isolation as alternatives to the equivalent IFRS measure, rather they should be read in conjunction with the equivalent IFRS measure. These include constant currency, pro-forma (‘like-for-like’), headline operating profit, headline PBIT (Profit Before Interest and Taxation), headline PBT (Profit Before Taxation), billings, free cash flow and net debt and average net debt, which we define, explain the use of and reconcile to the nearest IFRS measure on pages 32 to 35.

Management believes that these measures are both useful and necessary to present herein because they are used by management for internal performance analyses; the presentation of these measures facilitates comparability with other companies, although management’s measures may not be calculated in the same way as similarly titled measures reported by other companies; and these measures are useful in connection with discussions with the investment community.

The Company is a leading worldwide creative transformation organisation offering national and multinational clients a comprehensive range of communications, experience, commerce and technology services.

A key element of our strategy is to align our technology capabilities more closely with our creative expertise, and to simplify WPP through the creation of fewer, stronger, integrated agencies. Recent restructuring actions, including the mergers of VMLY&R and Wunderman Thompson, the One Ogilvy strategy and the reorganization of our specialist healthcare agencies, mean that certain units have been reclassified between the previously reported sectors. As a result, several businesses that were reported within Public Relations & Public Affairs, and Brand Consulting, Health & Wellness and Specialist Communications, have been merged with entities within Advertising & Media Investment Management (AMIM). These include Wunderman Thompson, VMLY&R, Ogilvy PR and OgilvyOne. Additionally, the US healthcare companies have been re-aligned with strong agency partners within AMIM, and Burson Marsteller and Cohn & Wolfe have been merged to form Burson Cohn & Wolfe. Furthermore, WPP completed the transaction to sell a 60% stake in Kantar to Bain Capital Private Equity in December 2019.

As a consequence of these moves, which reflect changes in the way we manage the business and report internally, WPP is now organized into three sectors – Global Integrated Agencies; Public Relations; and Specialist Agencies. Kantar, representing materially all of the Data Investment Management segment of the Group, is now excluded from the sector analysis as it is classified as discontinued operations. This change only affects the business sector reporting structure of the results; there is no change to the Group-level financial statements or geographical segmentation.

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Global Integrated Agencies

WPP’s integrated agency networks include Ogilvy, VMLY&R, Wunderman Thompson, Grey, GroupM and Hogarth. Among the principal functions of these agencies are the planning and creation of marketing, branding campaigns, design and production of advertisements across all media, and media buying services including strategy & business development, media investment, data & technology and content.

Public Relations

WPP’s public relations companies advise clients who are seeking to communicate with a range of stakeholders from consumers to governments and the business and financial communities. They include WPP’s public relations specialists, Burson Cohn & Wolfe and Hill+Knowlton Strategies, as previously reported but excluding Ogilvy PR which now sits within Global Integrated Agencies as part of Ogilvy.

Specialist Agencies

Specialist agencies represent WPP’s other agencies that specialise in certain areas, whether by region or range of services. They include AKQA, GTB, Geometry, WPP Brand Consulting and Commarco.

The following tables show, for the last three fiscal years, reported revenue and revenue less pass-through costs from continuing operations attributable to each reportable segment in which the Company operates.

Revenue1	2019				20182				20172
	£m		% of total		£m		% of total		£m		% of total
Global Integrated Agencies		10,205.2		77.1		9,930.7		76.1		10,028.6		76.3
Public Relations		956.5		7.2		931.7		7.1		915.0		7.0
Specialist Agencies		2,072.4		15.7		2,184.3		16.8		2,202.8		16.7
Total		13,234.1		100.0		13,046.7		100.0		13,146.4		100.0

¹   Intersegment sales have not been separately disclosed as they are not material.

²  Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies section of the consolidated financial statements. As a result, Data Investment Management is now excluded from the segment analysis.

Revenue less pass-through costs1	2019				20182				20172
	£m		% of total		£m		% of total		£m		% of total
Global Integrated Agencies		8,108.1		74.7		8,070.8		74.2		8,315.3		74.6
Public Relations		898.0		8.3		879.9		8.1		864.3		7.8
Specialist Agencies		1,840.4		17.0		1,925.0		17.7		1,964.3		17.6

¹   Revenue less pass-through costs is revenue less media and other pass-through costs. Pass-through costs comprise fees paid to external suppliers where they are engaged to perform part or all of a specific project and are charged directly to clients, predominantly media costs. See note 3 to the consolidated financial statements for more details of the pass-through costs.

²  Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies section of the consolidated financial statements. As a result, Data Investment Management is now excluded from the segment analysis.

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The following tables show, for the last three fiscal years, reported revenue and revenue less pass-through costs from continuing operations attributable to each geographic area in which the Company operates and demonstrates the Company’s regional diversity.

Revenue1	2019				20183				20173
	£m		% of total		£m		% of total		£m		% of total
North America2		4,854.7		36.7		4,851.7		37.2		5,083.5		38.7
United Kingdom		1,797.1		13.6		1,785.6		13.7		1,737.4		13.2
Western Continental Europe		2,628.8		19.8		2,589.6		19.8		2,455.7		18.7
Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe		3,953.5		29.9		3,819.8		29.3		3,869.8		29.4
Total		13,234.1		100.0		13,046.7		100.0		13,146.4		100.0

¹   Intersegment sales have not been separately disclosed as they are not material.

²  North America includes the US with revenue of £4,576.5 million (2018: £4,576.1 million, 2017: £4,782.0 million).

³  Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies section of the consolidated financial statements.

Revenue less pass-through costs1	2019				20183				20173
	£m		% of total		£m		% of total		£m		% of total
North America2		4,034.3		37.2		4,059.7		37.3		4,335.2		38.9
United Kingdom		1,390.1		12.8		1,393.8		12.8		1390.0		12.5
Western Continental Europe		2,176.4		20.1		2,182.9		20.1		2,063.7		18.5
Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe		3,245.7		29.9		3,239.3		29.8		3,355.0		30.1

¹   Revenue less pass-through costs is revenue less media and other pass-through costs. Pass-through costs comprise fees paid to external suppliers where they are engaged to perform part or all of a specific project and are charged directly to clients, predominantly media costs. See note 3 to the consolidated financial statements for more details of the pass-through costs.

²  North America includes the US with revenue less pass-through costs of £3,806.3 million (2018: £3,836.0 million, 2017: £4,089.9 million).

³  Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies section of the consolidated financial statements.

WPP Head Office

The central functions of WPP, with principal offices in London and New York, are to develop the strategy of the Company, coordinate the provision of services to cross-Company clients, perform a range of cross-Company functions in areas such as new business, talent recruitment and development, training, IT, finance, audit, legal affairs, mergers & acquisitions (M&A), property, sustainability, investor relations and communications, promote best practice in areas such as our agencies’ approach to diversity and inclusion, drive operating efficiencies and monitor the financial performance of WPP’s operating companies.

Our strategy

When we launched our new strategy in December 2018, we described it as one of radical evolution. Radical because we needed to take decisive action to stabilise the Company and reposition it for growth; an evolution because ours is a talent business, and we need to transform at a deliberate pace – taking our people and clients with us on the journey.

In 2019 we laid the groundwork by making major structural changes to the Company. We implemented the mergers announced in the second half of 2018, creating fewer, stronger agency brands. We have completed more than 50 disposals in the past two years – the most significant being the sale of 60% of Kantar to Bain Capital.

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Our strategy focuses on growth. The savings from restructuring our business will allow us to increase investment in the areas that will drive top-line growth in the future: creativity, technology and talent.

The five elements of our corporate strategy are:

• Vision & Offer. A vision developed with our people and clients and a refreshed, more contemporary offer to meet the needs of our clients in a rapidly changing market.

• Creativity. A renewed commitment to creativity, WPP’s most important competitive advantage.

• Data & Technology. Harnessing the strength of our marketing and advertising technology, and unique partnerships with technology firms, for the benefit of clients.

• Simpler Structure. Reducing complexity and making sure our clients can access the best resources from across the Company.

• People & Culture. Investment in our people, our culture and a new set of values to ensure WPP is the natural home for the best and brightest talent.

Sustainability

Our clients look to us for the insight, expertise and creativity to balance these interconnected pressures and communicate their purpose effectively and authentically. Our own sustainability strategy helps us to meet changing client expectations with strong and credible propositions, while reducing risks and creating a resilient business for the long term.

Our sustainability strategy supports all five elements of our corporate strategy, which we launched in late 2018. Below sets out the most material ways in which sustainability supports our strategy.

• Vision & Offer.

A growing number of clients are grappling with sustainability challenges and looking to articulate the purpose of their brands. They look for partners who share their sustainability values and aspirations. Our commitment to responsible and sustainable business practices helps us to broaden and deepen these partnerships, and to meet the growing expectations and sustainability requirements in client procurement processes.

• Creativity.

Social investment: Our pro bono work can make a significant difference to charities and non-governmental organisations (NGOs), enabling our partners to raise awareness and funds, recruit members, and achieve campaign objectives. Pro bono work benefits our business too, providing rewarding creative opportunities for our people that often result in award-winning campaigns that raise the profile of our companies.

Inclusive and diverse teams: Creativity thrives on diversity of background and thought. This makes having an inclusive and diverse workplace essential to our long-term business success. We want all of our people to feel valued and able to fulfil their potential, regardless of gender, ethnicity, age or disability.

• Data & Technology.

Privacy and data ethics: Data – including consumer data – can play an essential role in our work for clients. Data security and privacy are increasingly high-profile topics for regulators, consumers and our clients. We have a responsibility to look after this data carefully, to collect data only when needed and with consent where required, and to store and transfer data securely.

• Simpler Structure.

Greener office space: Our work to simplify our structure and consolidate our office space is driving a positive impact on our energy use and carbon footprint. We are reducing the overall number of offices

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we occupy, moving to Campus locations that use green building standards and reduce our impact, help us to use space more efficiently and encourage collaboration between our companies.

• People & Culture.

Shared values across our business and supply chain: Strong employment policies, investment in skills and inclusive working practices help us recruit, motivate and develop the talented people we need to serve our clients in all disciplines across our locations. Selecting suppliers and partners who adopt standards consistent with our own can reduce costs, improve efficiency and protect our reputation.

Clients

• 1 in 5 of our top 50 clients have made commitments to carbon neutrality. 80% of our top 50 client leads have discussed sustainability with their clients.

People

• We spent £38.7 million on training in 2019.

• At year-end 2019, women comprised 37% of the WPP Board and Executive leadership roles, 50% of Senior Managers, and 55% of total employees.

Environment

• In 2019, WPP committed to take the ‘plastic’ out of ‘Wire and Plastic Products’ by:

– phasing out plastics that cannot be reused, recycled or composted across all of our 3,000+ agency offices and campuses worldwide by the end of 2020;

– signing up to the New Plastics Economy Global Commitment led by UN Environment and the Ellen MacArthur Foundation which aims to unite businesses, governments and other stakeholders behind a common vision for a plastics system that works; and

– pledging to work with clients and partners to drive consumer change at scale.

• Our scope 1 and 2 market-based emissions per full-time employee for 2019 were 0.60 tonnes of CO₂e, a 21% reduction from 2018.

Social investment

• Our pro bono work was worth £10.6 million in 2019 for clients including UN Women and WildAid. We also made cash donations to charities of £5.2 million, resulting in a social investment worth £15.8 million. This is equivalent to 1.3% of profit before tax.

• WPP media agencies negotiated free media space worth £18.9 million on behalf of pro bono clients, 1.56% of profit before tax.

Clients

The Group works with 348 of the Fortune Global 500, all 30 of the Dow Jones 30, 70 of the NASDAQ 100, and 69 of the FTSE 100.

The Company’s 10 largest clients accounted for 15% of the Company’s revenues in the year ended 31 December 2019. No client of the Company represented more than 5% of the Company’s aggregate revenues in 2019. The Group’s companies have maintained long-standing relationships with many of their clients, with an average length of relationship for the top 10 clients of approximately 50 years.

Government Regulation

From time to time, governments, government agencies and industry self-regulatory bodies in the United States, European Union and other countries in which the Company operates have adopted statutes, regulations, and rulings that directly or indirectly affect the form, content, and scheduling of advertising, public relations and

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public affairs, and market research, or otherwise limit the scope of the activities of the Company and its clients. Some of the foregoing relate to privacy and data protection and general considerations such as truthfulness, substantiation and interpretation of claims made, comparative advertising, relative responsibilities of clients and advertising, public relations and public affairs firms, and registration of public relations and public affairs firms’ representation of foreign governments.

There has been a trend towards expansion of specific rules, prohibitions, media restrictions, labeling disclosures and warning requirements with respect to advertising for certain products, such as over-the-counter drugs and pharmaceuticals, cigarettes, food and certain alcoholic beverages, and to certain groups, such as children. Though the Company does not expect any existing or proposed regulations to have a material adverse impact on the Company’s business, the Company is unable to estimate the effect on its future operations of the application of existing statutes or regulations or the extent or nature of future regulatory action.

IT

The IT transformation programmes will underpin our three-year strategic plan and enhance our data security.

Since the launch of the WPP Data Privacy and Security Charter in 2018 we have issued incremental updates to reflect regulatory and best practice changes as well as to reflect changes to our business. The Charter helps us communicate our approach to data to our people and clients, setting out core principles for responsible data management through our Data Code of Conduct, our IT security, privacy and social media policies, and our security standards (which are based on ISO 27001).

Our Group Chief Privacy Officer leads our work on privacy, supported by our Data Protection Officer. Together, they provide practical guidance and support to our agencies on data ethics, ensure that privacy risks are well understood across the business, help us prepare for relevant new regulation, and promote best practices.

Our networks and companies have appointed privacy leads to oversee the implementation of our policies at a local level. They report progress via our Group Chief Counsel and Group Chief Privacy Officer.

Our company-wide audit programme includes controls reflecting the technical and organisational measures in place to protect data as well as specific data privacy controls. Our internal audit team runs a rolling-programme of audits across our companies to review privacy risks and practices using these controls.

Suppliers who collect, manage or store employee, consumer or client data on behalf of WPP, our companies and our clients must have the right data security and privacy standards in place. We conduct due diligence on data suppliers and embed privacy requirements in our supplier contracts.

We develop principles on privacy and data protection and compliance with local laws. We implemented extensive training ahead of General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) implementation in 2018 and the roll out of a GDPR toolkit to assist our people to prepare for implementation and will do the same as new legislation is adopted in other markets.

We monitor and log our network and systems and keep raising our people’s security awareness through our WPP Safer Data training and mock phishing attacks.

Our Safer Data platform continues to be enhanced and is a resource well used across the group. The platform provides information, guidance and resources to help our people understand privacy risks and to apply our policies to their work. The platform also includes our regulatory toolkits for GDPR, California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) and Brazil’s Lei Geral de Proteção de Dados (LGPD), model data protection contract clauses, privacy impact assessment tools, policy templates and other topic-specific or jurisdiction-specific guidance and resources.

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We will relaunch our mandatory global Privacy and Data Security Awareness online training in 2020. There will be updates to both the style and content of the training, making it more engaging and relevant and ensuring our people are well-trained in our data responsibilities as a company and in their individual roles. Our team also continues to run face-to-face training to reflect specific topics or regulations, for example we have trained over 1,000 of our employees on the new CCPA.

We use our Data Health Checker to review privacy risks and data security practices in our businesses. This provides us with insight into how data is used, stored and transferred and helps to identify any parts of the business that need further support on data practices. The results show us that the majority of our companies continue to have measures in place that meet or exceed their level of privacy risk (the average risk score is 2.14, where 5 is the maximum risk score). Of those companies surveyed, 80% have a dedicated privacy lead.

C. Organizational Structure

The Company’s business comprises the provision of creative transformation services on a national, multinational and global basis. It operates out of over 3,000 offices in 112 countries (including associates). For a list of the Company’s principal subsidiary undertakings and their country of incorporation see Exhibit 8.1 to this Form 20-F.

D. Property, Plant and Equipment

The majority of the Company’s properties are leased, although certain properties which are used mainly for office space are owned. In the United States the sole owned property was the 214,000 square foot VMLY&R office condominium for their headquarters located at 3 Columbus Circle in New York, New York, which was sold and converted to a leased location in Q1 2019 in addition to 160,000 of square feet of space already leased. Other owned properties are in Latin America (principally in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Mexico, Peru and Puerto Rico), Asia (India and China) and in Europe (Spain and UK). Principal leased properties, which include office space at the following locations:

Location	Use	Approximate square footage
3 World Trade Center, New York, NY	GroupM, Mindshare, Wavemaker, Mediacom, Essence, Xaxis, Kinetic, WPP		690,000
636 Eleventh Avenue, New York, NY	Ogilvy, Geometry, MJM, Hogarth, BDG		564,000
399 Heng Feng Road, Zhabei, Shanghai	Ogilvy, GroupM, Wavemaker, Mediacom, Mindshare, Geometry, Hill+Knowlton Strategies, Global Team Blue, Sudler MDS, Burson Cohn & Wolfe, Peclars, Hogarth, Wunderman Thompson, Superunion, Kinetic		488,000
Calle de Ríos Rosas, 26, Madrid	GroupM, Grey, WPP Health & Wellness, Ogilvy, Hill+Knowlton Strategies, Burson Cohn & Wolfe, Axicom, WPP, Lambie Nairn, Finance +, Superunion, SCPF, VMLY&R, Wunderman Thompson		382,402
The Orb Adjacent to JW Marriott Sahar, Chatrapati Shivaji International Airport, Andheri East, Mumbai	GroupM, Wavemaker, Mindshare, Mediacom, Kinetic, Ogilvy, Grey, Wunderman Thompson, Hill+Knowlton Strategies, Fitch, Landor, VMLY&R, Genesis Burson Cohn & Wolfe, WPP		375,000
3 Columbus Circle, New York, NY	VMLY&R, Midas Exchange, Berlin Cameron, CMI, Taxi, Red Fuse, Finsbury, Fitch, WPP Health		374,000
200 Fifth Avenue and 23 West 23rd Street, New York, NY	Grey, Burson Cohn & Wolfe, Landor, Finance +, GCI Health, SJR, Townhouse		349,000
Tower B, DLF Cyber Park, Gurugram	GroupM, Wavemaker, Mindshare, Mediacom, Ogilvy, Wunderman Thompson, Hogarth, Grey, Global Team Blue, AKQA, ADK, WPP (Q4 2020 Occupancy)		340,000
222 Merchandise Mart / 350 N Orleans, Chicago IL	Ogilvy, Wunderman Thompson, Geometry, Global Team Blue, GroupM, Burson Cohn & Wolfe, Hill+Knowlton Strategies, The Futures Company, Kinetic		277,400
333 North Green Street, Chicago, IL	Burson Cohn & Wolfe, Branding, Geometry, GroupM, Hill+Knowlton Strategies, Kinetic, Ogilvy, VMLY&R, Wunderman Thompson, Hogarth, WBA		265,108

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Location	Use	Approximate square footage
125 Queens Quay, Toronto	GroupM, Ogilvy, Wunderman Thompson, VMLY&R, Grey, Hill+Knowlton Strategies (Estimated Q4 2021 Occupancy)		258,053
Sea Containers House, Upper Ground, London SE1	Ogilvy, Wavemaker, WPP		226,000
550 Town Center Drive, Dearborn, MI	Global Team Blue, PRISM, Burrows, POSSIBLE, VMLY&R		217,900

The Company considers its properties, owned or leased, to be in good condition and generally suitable and adequate for the purposes for which they are used. At 31 December 2019, the fixed asset value (cost less depreciation) representing land, freehold buildings and leasehold buildings as reflected in the Company’s consolidated financial statements was £661.8 million.

In 2019, 25% of our floorspace was certified to advanced sustainability standards such as Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) and Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM), meeting our 2020 target a year early.

In 2019, we opened five new Campuses in Helsinki, Bucharest, Amsterdam, Madrid and Mumbai, bringing our total to 16 WPP Campuses across four continents. We will continue to develop Campus co-locations to house our agencies in major cities, which deliver world-class working environments and increased efficiencies. Before the end of 2020, we will open a further three campuses and aim to have 75,000 people in 60 Campus locations worldwide by 2023.

See note 13 to the consolidated financial statements for a schedule by years of lease payments as at 31 December 2019.

ITEM 4A. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS

Not applicable.

ITEM 5. OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS

As introduced on page 11, certain Non-GAAP measures are included in the operating and financial review and prospects.

A. Operating Results

Overview

WPP is a creative transformation company with a service offering that allows us to meet the present and future needs of our clients. Our business model is client-centric, and we leverage resource and skills across our internal structures to provide the best possible service. The Company offers services in three reportable segments:

• Global Integrated Agencies;

• Public Relations

• Specialist Agencies

In 2019, approximately 77% of the Company’s consolidated revenues from continuing operations were derived from Global Integrated Agencies, with the remaining 23% of its revenues being derived from the remaining two segments.

The following discussion is based on the Company’s audited consolidated financial statements beginning on page F-1 of this report. The Group’s consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with IFRS as issued by the IASB.

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We presented the strategy in December 2018. Our vision was to become a creative transformation company, one that combined outstanding human talent and imagination with expertise in technology and data, and behaved not as a financial conglomerate or group of separate businesses, but as a unified whole.

We defined a new purpose – to use the power of creativity to build better futures for our people, clients and communities. And we set new financial targets to allow us to invest in the long-term health of our business and deliver sustainable growth for our shareholders. The progress in 2019 is outlined below.

• Vision & Offer. Won significant client assignments based on new offer. Increased investment in faster-growth areas of offer: experience, commerce and technology. Strong presence at events celebrating creativity, innovation and technology. Launched WPP iQ, a new online space for the best insight and industry intelligence from across the Company.

• Creativity. Recruitment of high-profile creative leaders, including six key hires in the United States. Strong performance at Cannes, including five Grand Prix, one Titanium Lion, 17 Gold, 59 Silver and 107 Bronze. Continued demonstration of creative firepower with four spots at Super Bowl 2020.

• Data & Technology. Established the WPP technology team and cross-agency Technology Council. Developed 360° partner programmes with all our key technology partners (Adobe, Amazon, Facebook, Google, IBM, Microsoft and Salesforce). Rationalised our internal product development strategy.

• Simpler Structure. Clients: Appointed 17 Global Client Leaders to head up our most important client relationships; Won 18 new major global accounts; and Expanded almost half of our existing top-50 client relationships. Companies: Sale of 60% share in Kantar; 22 disposals of non-core businesses; and 100 local office mergers and 80 business unit closures. Countries: Established our WPP Campus strategic vision; and Opened new Campuses in Helsinki, Bucharest, Madrid, Amsterdam and Mumbai.

• People & Culture. Programme to promote new values across the Company. Reinvigorated creative recruiting and hiring experience. Enhanced our employee experience with more defined and supported career paths. Developed more inclusive policies and benefits for employees.

The share price increased by 26% in 2019, closing at 1,066.5 pence at year end. Since then it has declined to 545.0 pence, down 49%, at 24 April 2020. Dividends in respect of 2019 are 22.7 pence, a decrease from 60.0 pence in respect of 2018. Given the significant uncertainty over the coming months due to Covid-19, as previously discussed, the Board is suspending the 2019 final dividend of 37.3 pence per share.

Continuing operations

Revenue was up 1.4% at £13.234 billion. Revenue on a constant currency basis was up 0.2% compared with last year, the difference to the reportable number reflecting the weakness of the pound sterling against most currencies, particularly in the first half of the year. On a like-for-like basis, which excludes the impact of currency and acquisitions, revenue was flat. Billings were £53.059 billion, down 0.3%, down 1.4% in constant currency and down 1.0% like-for-like.

The Group’s revenue is more weighted to the second half of the year across all regions and sectors, and, particularly, in the faster growing markets of Asia Pacific and Latin America. As a result, headline operating profit continue to be skewed to the second half of the year, with the Group earning approximately 40% of its headline operating profit in the first half and 60% in the second half.

Operating profit was up 4.1% to £1.296 billion from £1.245 billion, up 4.9% in constant currency. Headline operating profit was down 5.5% to £1.561 billion, from £1.651 billion and down 5.6% in constant currency. The implementation of IFRS 16 on 1 January 2019 resulted in an increase to operating profit of £61 million.

Profit before interest and tax was up 2.7% to £1.311 billion from £1.276 billion. Headline PBIT for 2019 was down 5.8% to £1.623 billion, from £1.723 billion and down 6.0% in constant currencies.

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Profit before tax was up 19.1% to £1.214 billion from £1.019 billion. In constant currencies, profit before tax was up by 19.4%. Headline profit before tax was down 11.7% to £1.363 billion from £1.543 billion. The difference between profit before tax and headline profit before tax reflecting principally the £153 million of restructuring and transformation costs and £48 million of goodwill impairment charges.

Profit after tax was up 23.1% to £0.939 billion from £0.763 billion. In constant currencies, profit after tax was up 22.7%.

Profits attributable to shareholders was up 23.2% to £0.860 billion from £0.698 billion, again reflecting principally the £153 million of restructuring and transformation costs and £48 million of goodwill impairment. In constant currencies, profits attributable to shareholders was up 22.8%.

Diluted earnings per share was up 23.1% to 68.2p from 55.4p and was up 22.9% in constant currencies.

Net cash inflow from operating activities increased to £1.851 billion in the year from £1.694 billion in 2018. In 2019, operating profit was £1.580 billion, depreciation, amortisation and goodwill impairment £734 million, non-cash share-based incentive charges £71 million, working capital and provisions inflow £350 million, net interest paid £190 million, tax paid £536 million, lease liabilities (including interest) paid £355 million, capital expenditure £394 million, earnout payments £130 million and other net cash outflows £86 million. Free cash flow was, therefore, an inflow £1.044 billion. This free cash flow was enhanced by £2.221 billion in net cash acquisition payments and disposal proceeds (of which £1.971 billion was the Kantar disposal net of cash disposed and costs, and £250 million of net income from other disposal proceeds net of acquisition payments) and absorbed by £44 million in share buybacks and £750 million in dividends. This resulted in a net cash inflow of £2.471 billion.

Debt financing was £12.845 billion at 31 December 2019, compared to £15.083 billion at 31 December 2018. Average net debt in 2019 was £4.282 billion, compared to £5.025 billion in 2018, at 2019 exchange rates. On 31 December 2019 net debt was £1.540 billion, against £4.017 billion on 31 December 2018, a decrease of £2.477 billion (a decrease of £2.313 billion at 2019 exchange rates). The reduced period end debt figure reflects the benefit of £1.971 billion proceeds in relation to the disposal of 60% of the Group’s interest in Phase 1 of the Kantar business.

Discontinued operations

As a result of the Kantar sale, the Group has classified Kantar as held for sale under IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations which is as described in the accounting policies section of the consolidated financial statements. As Kantar classifies as held for sale under IFRS 5, the profit for the year is presented as discontinued operations on the income statement. The decrease in profit for the year from £138 million in 2018 to £11 million in 2019 primarily reflects the goodwill impairment on classification as held for sale of £95 million and the tax expense on the disposal of £157 million, partially offset by the gain on sale of £74 million.

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Segment performance

Performance of the Group’s businesses is reviewed by management based on headline operating profit. A table showing these amounts by reportable segment and geographical area for each of the three years ended 31 December 2019, 2018 and 2017 is presented in note 2 to the consolidated financial statements. To supplement the reportable segment information presented in note 2 to the consolidated financial statements, the following tables give details of revenue growth and revenue less pass-through costs growth by geographical area and reportable segment on a reported, constant currency, and like-for-like basis. Headline operating profit and headline operating profit margin by reportable segment are also provided below.

Geographical area

Revenue Analysis
	Reported revenue change %+/(-)					Constant currency revenue change %+/(-)						Like-for-like revenue change %+/(-)
	2019		20181			2019			20181			2019			20181
North America		0.1		(4.6	)		(4.1	)		(1.4	)		(5.0	)		(2.5	)
United Kingdom		0.6		2.8			0.6			2.8			1.8			1.8
Western Continental Europe		1.5		5.5			2.9			5.8			1.5			3.2
Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe		3.5		(1.3	)		3.6			3.5			4.7			4.8
Total Group		1.4		(0.8	)		0.2			2.1			0.0			1.3

¹   Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies section of the consolidated financial statements.

Revenue less pass-through costs analysis
	Reported revenue less pass- through costs1 change %+/(-)						Constant currency revenue less pass- through costs1 change %+/(-)						Like-for-like revenue less pass- through costs1 change %+/(-)
	2019			20182			2019			20182			2019			20182
North America		(0.6	)		(6.4	)		(4.7	)		(3.1	)		(5.7	)		(3.9	)
United Kingdom		(0.3	)		0.3			(0.3	)		0.3			0.3			(0.2	)
Western Continental Europe		(0.3	)		5.8			1.0			6.0			0.7			3.4
Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe		0.2			(3.4	)		0.4			1.6			1.4			2.2

¹   Revenue less pass-through costs is revenue less media and other pass-through costs. Pass-through costs comprise fees paid to external suppliers where they are engaged to perform part or all of a specific project and are charged directly to clients. See note 3 to the consolidated financial statements for more details of the pass-through costs.

²  Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies section of the consolidated financial statements.

North America constant currency revenue less pass-through costs was down 4.7% in the year and down 5.7% like-for-like, with a significant improvement in the second half. Revenue less pass through costs was down 4.0% in the second half on a like-for-like basis compared to down 7.3% in the first half as the negative effect of some of the 2018 client assignment losses started to ease.

United Kingdom constant currency revenue less pass-through costs was down 0.3% in the year and up 0.3% on a like-for-like basis, with the Group’s global integrated agencies and particularly GroupM performing less well in the second half of the year, partly offset by a significant improvement in the Group’s specialist public relations businesses.

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Western Continental Europe constant currency revenue less pass-through costs grew 1.0% in the year with like-for-like up 0.7%, the second strongest performing region. Germany was significantly stronger in the second half of the year, partly offset by a softening in France, Italy and the Netherlands.

In Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & the Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe, on a constant currency basis, revenue less pass-through costs growth in the region was 0.4% for the year with like-for-like growth 1.4%, the strongest performing region. Like-for-like growth improved in the second half to 1.8%, compared to 1.1% in the first half, with Africa & the Middle East improving significantly, partly offset by a slight softening in Asia Pacific and Latin America.

Reportable Segments

Revenue Analysis
	Reported revenue change %+/(-)						Constant currency revenue change %+/(-)					Like-for-like revenue change %+/(-)
	2019			20181			2019			20181		2019			20181
Global Integrated Agencies		2.8			(1.0	)		1.5			1.9		1.4			1.4
Public Relations		2.7			1.8			0.5			4.7		(0.7	)		4.0
Specialist Agencies		(5.1	)		(0.8	)		(6.2	)		1.8		(5.9	)		(0.2	)
Total Group		1.4			(0.8	)		0.2			2.1		0.0			1.3

¹   Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies section of the consolidated financial statements.

Revenue less pass-through costs analysis
	Reported revenue less pass- through  costs1 change %+/(-)						Constant currency revenue less pass- through costs1 change %+/(-)						Like-for-like revenue less pass- through costs1 change %+/(-)
	2019			20182			2019			20182			2019			20182
Global Integrated Agencies		0.5			(2.9	)		(0.7	)		(0.1	)		(0.7	)		(0.3	)
Public Relations		2.1			1.8			(0.1	)		4.7			(1.0	)		4.2
Specialist Agencies		(4.4	)		(2.0	)		(5.6	)		0.7			(5.6	)		(1.7	)

¹  Revenue less pass-through costs is revenue less media and other pass-through costs. Pass-through costs comprise fees paid to external suppliers where they are engaged to perform part or all of a specific project and are charged directly to clients. See note 3 to the consolidated financial statements for more details of the pass-through costs.

²  Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies section of the consolidated financial statements.

Headline operating profit analysis	20191				2018				2017
	£m		Headline operating profit margin2 %		£m		Headline operating profit margin2, 3 %		£m		Headline operating profit margin2, 3 %
Global Integrated Agencies		1,219.5		15.0		1,228.2		15.2		1,321.3		15.9
Public Relations		140.6		15.7		139.2		15.8		123.5		14.3
Specialist Agencies		200.5		10.9		283.8		14.7		348.3		17.7
Total Group		1,560.6				1,651.2				1,793.1

¹   IFRS 16 Leases was adopted from 1 January 2019 as described in the accounting policies section of the consolidated financial statements. No restatement has been made in prior years.

² Headline operating profit margin is calculated as headline operating profit as a percentage of revenue less pass-through costs.

³ Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies section of the consolidated financial statements.

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Like-for-like revenue less pass-through costs in the Group’s global integrated agencies was down 0.7% in the year, making it the strongest performing sector. There was a significant improvement in the second half of the year, with like-for-like growth of 0.3% compared to down 1.8% in the first half. Grey, Ogilvy, Wunderman Thompson and VMLY&R improved in the second half, partly offset by lower growth in GroupM. As a result, headline operating profit was down £8.7 million from £1,228.2 million for the year ended 2018 to £1,219.5 million for the year ended 2019.

Like-for-like revenue less pass-through costs in the Group’s public relations businesses was down 1.0% in the year, with a significant improvement in the second half, down 0.4% on a like-for-like basis compared to down 1.5% in the first half. The Group’s specialist public relations businesses Finsbury, Glover Park, Hering Schuppener, Buchanan and Clarion performed particularly strongly in the second half of the year. As a result of the above, headline operating profit was up £1.4 million from £139.2 million for the year ended 2018 to £140.6 million for the year ended 2019.

In the Group’s specialist agencies, like-for-like revenue less pass-through costs was down 5.6% in the year, as the Group’s specialist brand consulting, advertising and direct, interactive and ecommerce businesses came under pressure, particularly in North America, Western Continental Europe and Asia Pacific. The Group’s specialist agencies include the specialist global Ford agency, GTB, and performance reflects the loss of the omnichannel work in the second half of 2018. As a result, headline operating profit was down £83.3 million from £283.8 million for the year ended 2018 to £200.5 million for the year ended 2019.

2019 compared with 2018

The financial results for 2019 are based on the Group’s continuing operations and the results of Kantar are presented separately as discontinued operations. The 2017 and 2018 reported numbers have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies section of the consolidated financial statements, to reflect this change.

Revenues

Revenue was up 1.4% at £13.234 billion. Revenue on a constant currency basis was up 0.2% compared with last year, the difference to the reportable number reflecting the weakness of the pound sterling against most currencies, particularly in the first half of the year. On a like-for-like basis, which excludes the impact of currency and acquisitions, revenue was flat.

Costs of services, general and administrative costs

Costs of services increased by 2.5% in 2019 to £10,825.1 million from £10,559.1 million in 2018.

General and administrative costs decreased by 10.4% to £1,113.1 million from £1,242.3 million in 2018, principally in relation to decrease in goodwill impairment, decrease in amortisation and impairment of acquired intangible assets and lower IT costs, partly offset by a gain on disposal of investment in 2018 that did not repeat in 2019.

Staff costs increased by 2.0% to £7,090.6 million from £6,950.6 million in 2018. Staff costs, excluding incentives (short- and long-term incentives and cost of share-based incentives), increased by 2.4%. Incentive payments of £294 million were 15.8% of headline operating profit before incentives, a similar level to £311 million or 15.9% in 2018.

On a like-for-like basis, the average number of people in the Group, excluding associates, in 2019 was 106,508 compared to 106,555 in 2018. On the same basis, the total number of people, excluding associates, at 31 December 2019 was 106,786 compared to 105,900 at 31 December 2018, an increase of 0.8%.

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As outlined at the investor day on 11 December 2018, we have undertaken a strategic review of our operations. As part of that review, restructuring actions have been taken to right-size underperforming businesses, address high-cost severance markets and simplify operational structures. This has included the merger, closure or sale of a number of WPP’s operating companies. It also includes transformation costs with respect to strategic initiatives like co-locations in major cities, IT transformation and shared services.

In 2019, the Group recorded £121 million of restructuring and transformation costs in relation to this plan, in addition to the £212 million in 2018. Of this £333 million total, £220 million relates to actions with a cash cost, with £158 million paid to date – the balance to be paid in 2020 and beyond. Total restructuring and transformation costs in 2019 of £153 million comprise the £121 million above and £32 million of other costs, primarily relating to the continuing global IT transformation programme.

These exceptional costs of £153 million and £48 million of associate company exceptional losses have been partly offset by exceptional gains of £58 million, primarily relating to the gain on the sale of the Group’s investment in Chime.

This gives a net exceptional loss of £143 million and compares with a net exceptional loss in 2018 of £70 million.

Profit before interest and taxation

Profit before interest and tax was up 2.7% to £1.311 billion from £1.276 billion. Headline PBIT for 2019 was down 5.8% to £1.623 billion, from £1.723 billion and down 6.0% in constant currencies.

Finance and investment income, finance costs and revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments

Net finance costs, finance and investment income less finance costs (excluding the revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments), were £260 million compared with £180 million in 2018, an increase of £80 million. This primarily reflects additional interest expense related to lease liabilities of £100 million following the adoption of IFRS 16. Revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments resulted in a gain of £163.8 million in 2019 and a loss of £76.3 million in 2018.

Taxation

The Group’s tax rate on profit before tax was 22.6% in 2019 against 25.1% in 2018.

The difference in the rate in 2019 was principally due to the revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments not being tax deductible. Given the Group’s geographic mix of profits and the changing international tax environment, the tax rate is expected to increase slightly over the next few years.

Profit for the year

Profit after tax was up 23.1% to £0.939 billion from £0.763 billion. In constant currencies, profit after tax was up 22.7%. Profits attributable to shareholders was up 23.2% to £0.860 billion from £0.698 billion, again reflecting principally the £153 million of restructuring and transformation costs and £48 million of goodwill impairment. In constant currencies, profits attributable to shareholders was up 22.8%.

2018 compared with 2017

Revenues

Reported revenue was down 0.8% at £13,046.7 million. Revenue on a constant currency basis was up 2.1% compared with 2017, the difference to the reportable number reflecting the strength of the pound sterling against most currencies, particularly in the first half of the year. On a like-for-like basis, which excludes the impact of currency and acquisitions, revenue was up 1.3%.

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Costs of services, general and administrative costs

Costs of services increased by 0.7% in 2018 to £10,559.1 million from £10,481.6 million in 2017.

General and administrative costs increased by 14.3% to £1,242.3 million from £1,086.9 million in 2017, principally in relation to an increase in the provision for bad debts and higher IT costs.

Staff costs decreased by 1.6% to £6,950.6 million from £7,065.1 million. Staff costs, excluding incentives (short- and long-term incentives and cost of share-based incentives), decreased by 1.9%. Incentive payments of £311.3 million were 15.9% of headline operating profit before incentives compared with £294.8 million or 14.1% in 2017. Achievement of target, at an individual Company level, generally generates 15% of headline PBIT, excluding share of results of associates (excluding exceptional gains/losses), before bonus as an incentive pool and 20% at maximum.

On a like-for-like basis, the average number of people in the Group, excluding associates, in 2018 was 133,903 compared to 135,521 in 2017, a decrease of 1.2%. On the same basis, the total number of people, excluding associates, at 31 December 2018 was 134,281 compared to 135,187 at 31 December 2017, a decrease of 906 or 0.7%.

As outlined in the investor day on 11 December 2018, we have undertaken a strategic review of our operations. As part of that review, restructuring actions have been taken to right-size underperforming businesses, address high cost severance markets and simplify operational structures. This has included the merger of a number of WPP’s operating companies. It also includes transformation costs with respect to strategic initiatives like co-locations in major cities, IT transformation and shared services.

In 2018, restructuring and transformation costs of £265.5 million comprise £179.7 million of restructuring costs and £85.8 million of transformation costs with respect to strategic initiatives including co-locations in major cities, IT transformation and shared services. In the fourth quarter of 2018, £212.3 million of restructuring and transformation costs were incurred in relation to the strategic review of the Group’s operations. The remaining £53.2 million primarily relates to restructuring costs recorded in the first half of 2018 and transformation costs in relation to the IT transformation programme.

These exceptional costs of £265.5 million and £41.5 million of associate company exceptional losses have been partly offset by exceptional gains of £237.9 million, primarily relating to the gain on the sale of the Group’s investment in Globant S.A.

This gives a net exceptional loss of £69.1 million and compares with a net exceptional loss in 2017 of £49.5 million.

Profit before interest and taxation

As a result of the above, profit before interest and tax was down 23.9% to £1.276 billion from £1.676 billion. Headline PBIT was down 8.8% to £1.723 billion, from £1.890 billion.

Finance and investment income, finance costs and revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments

Finance income increased to £98.9 million in 2018 from £89.0 million in 2017. Finance costs increased to £279.1 million in 2018 from £261.9 million in 2017. Therefore, net finance costs were £180.2 million, compared with £ 172.9 million in 2017, an increase of £7.3 million. This is due to the higher dollar interest rates. Revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments resulted in a loss of £76.3 million in 2018 and a gain of £391.0 million in 2017.

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Taxation

The Group’s tax rate on profit before tax was 25.1% in 2018 against 4.4% in 2017.

The difference in the rate in 2017 was principally due to an exceptional tax credit in 2017, primarily relating to the re-measurement of deferred tax liabilities following US tax reform. Given the Group’s geographic mix of profits and the changing international tax environment, the tax rate is expected to increase slightly over the next few years.

Profit for the year

Profit after tax fell by 57.9% to £0.763 billion from £1.811 billion. Profits attributable to shareholders fell 59.6% to £0.698 million from £1.727 million, again reflecting principally the £265.5 million of restructuring and transformation costs and £176.5 million of goodwill impairment. Diluted earnings per share fell by 59.1% to 55.4p from 135.3p.

B. Liquidity and Capital Resources

General—The primary sources of funds for the Group are cash generated from operations and funds available under its credit facilities. The primary uses of cash funds in recent years have been for debt service and repayment, capital expenditures, acquisitions, share repurchases and cancellations and dividends. For a breakdown of the Company’s sources and uses of cash and for the Company’s liquidity risk management see the “Consolidated Cash Flow Statement” and note 26, which are included as part of the Company’s consolidated financial statements in Item 18 of this Report.

2019 was a foundational year for WPP’s new strategy, driving structural and cultural change: Through mergers formed Wunderman Thompson and VMLY&R to create fewer, stronger agency brands and simplified the Company with the disposal of non-core businesses – easier to manage and a better proposition for clients; Creating multi-agency Campuses worldwide to enhance collaboration and provide a better working environment; and Investing in central WPP teams such as people, technology and marketing & growth to provide greater support to operating companies. We aim to have 75,000 of our people in WPP Campuses by 2023.

WPP is well-capitalised and cash-generative. The disposal programme has simplified WPP and reduced debt to the lower end of target range. WPP has raised over £3.2 billion from over 50 disposals and more than 80 non-core business closures in the past two years. The Group has continued strong cash generation to fund investment. As at 31 December 2019 we had cash of £2.7 billion comprised of £11.3 billion of cash and short-term deposits and £8.6 billion of bank overdrafts. Total liquidity, including undrawn credit facilities, was £4.8 billion.

Funds returned to shareholders in 2019 totaled £794 million, including dividends and share buybacks. In 2019, 4.6 million shares, or 0.4% of the issued share capital, were purchased at a cost of £44 million. All of these shares were purchased in the fourth quarter.

The Group’s liquidity is affected primarily by the working capital flows associated with its media buying activities on behalf of clients. The working capital movements relate primarily to the Group’s billings. Billings comprise the gross amounts billed to clients in respect of commission-based/fee-based income together with the total of other fees earned. In 2019, billings were £53.1 billion, or 4.0 times the revenue of the Group. The inflows and outflows associated with media buying activity therefore represent significant cash flow within each month of the year and are forecast and re-forecast on a regular basis throughout the year by the Group’s treasury staff so as to ensure that there is continuing coverage of peak requirements through committed borrowing facilities from the Group’s bankers and other sources.

26

Liquidity risk management—The Group manages liquidity risk by ensuring continuity and flexibility of funding even in difficult market conditions. Undrawn committed borrowing facilities are maintained in excess of peak net-borrowing levels and debt maturities are closely monitored. Targets for debt less cash position are set on an annual basis and, to assist in meeting this, working capital targets are set for all the Group’s major operations. See additional discussion on liquidity risk in note 26 to the consolidated financial statements.

Debt

The Company’s borrowings consist of bonds and revolving credit facilities, details on the Company’s borrowings are provided in note 10 to the consolidated financial statements.

The Group has a five-year Revolving Credit Facility of $2.5 billion due March 2024. Borrowings under the Revolving Credit Facility are governed by certain financial covenants based on the results and financial position of the Group, including requirements that (i) the interest coverage ratio for each financial period equal or exceed 5.0 to 1 and (ii) the ratio of borrowed funds to earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation at 30 June and 31 December in each year shall not exceed 3.5 to 1, both covenants are defined in the relevant agreement. The Group is in compliance with both covenants. On 14 February 2020, the lending banks approved extending the maturity for a further year to March 2025.

The Group also has a one-year Revolving Credit Facility of A$150 million due June 2020 and a three-year Revolving Credit Facility of A$270 million due June 2021. Borrowings under these facilities are governed by certain financial covenants based on the results and financial position of WPP AUNZ, including requirements that (i) the interest coverage ratio for each financial period equal or exceed 4.0 to 1 and (ii) the ratio of borrowed funds to earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation at 30 June and 31 December in each year shall not exceed 3.0 to 1, both covenants are defined in the relevant agreement. The Group is in compliance with both covenants.

Hedging of financial instruments—The Group’s policy on interest rate and foreign exchange rate management sets out the instruments and methods available to hedge interest and currency risk exposures and the control procedures in place to ensure effectiveness. The Group uses derivative financial instruments to reduce exposure to foreign exchange risk and interest rate movements. The Group does not hold or issue derivative financial instruments for speculative purposes.

In 2019, operating profit of continuing and discontinued operations was £1.580 billion, depreciation, amortisation and goodwill impairment £734 million, non-cash share-based incentive charges £71 million, working capital and provisions inflow £350 million, net interest paid £190 million, tax paid £536 million, lease liabilities (including interest) paid £355 million, capital expenditure £394 million, earnout payments £130 million and other net cash outflows £86 million. Free cash flow was, therefore, an inflow of £1.044 billion. This free cash inflow was enhanced by £2.221 billion in net cash acquisition payments and disposal proceeds (of which £1.971 billion was the Kantar disposal net of cash disposed and costs, and £250 million of net income from other disposal proceeds net of acquisition payments) and absorbed by £44 million in share buybacks and £750 million in dividends. This resulted in a net cash inflow of £2.471 billion.

On 31 December 2019, debt financing was £12.845 billion against £15.083 billion on 31 December 2018, a decrease of £2.238 billion. On 31 December 2019 net debt was £1.540 billion, against £4.017 billion on 31 December 2018, a decrease of £2.477 billion (a decrease of £2.313 billion at 2019 exchange rates). The reduced period end debt figure reflects the benefit of £1.971 billion proceeds in relation to the disposal of 60% of the Group’s interest in Phase 1 of the Kantar business. Average net debt in 2019 was £4.282 billion, compared to £5.025 billion in 2018, at 2019 exchange rates.

Refer to Item 5F for details on the Company’s material commitments for capital expenditures at 31 December 2019.

27

Given the significant uncertainty of Covid-19 over the coming months, we are taking prudent action now to maintain our liquidity and ensure that we emerge from this global crisis strong, secure, and ready to meet the continuing needs of our clients, shareholders and other stakeholders. The Board has therefore decided to suspend the £950 million share buyback, funded by proceeds from the Kantar transaction. Since December 2019, we have completed £330 million of the programme. In addition, the Board is suspending the 2019 final dividend of 37.3 pence per share, which was due to be proposed at the 2020 AGM. These two actions together will preserve approximately £1.1 billion of cash. The Board will continue to review the status of the 2019 dividend.

Most of our costs are variable in nature. We have commenced a review of our costs to protect profitability, where possible, from a decline in revenue. At the same time, we want to protect our people as much as possible, as well as our ability to serve clients and grow when markets recover. The immediate actions we have taken include: freezing new hires; reviewing freelance expenditure; stopping discretionary costs, including travel and hotels and the costs of award shows; and postponing planned salary increases for 2020. In addition, members of the WPP Executive Committee, as well as the Board, have committed to taking a 20% reduction in their salaries or fees for an initial period of three months.

We anticipate these measures will generate total in-year savings for 2020 of £700 – 800 million. In addition, we are making a detailed assessment of further actions to reduce cost subject to the impact of the virus on our business over the coming weeks and months.

We have also reviewed our capital expenditure budgets for 2020 and looked at opportunities to improve working capital. We have identified savings in excess of £100 million in property and IT capital expenditure against an initial 2020 budget of around £400 million. On working capital, we have a standing weekly management process to review cash outflows and receipts to monitor our position. We are continuing to work closely with our clients to ensure timely payment for the services we have provided in line with contractual commitments. On media, we are working with clients and vendors to maintain the settlement flow. Should we see any deterioration in payment from our media clients we will take appropriate action to manage our cash position.

Going concern

The Group’s business activities, together with the factors likely to affect its future development, performance and position are set out in the Operating Results on pages 18 to 26 and Risk Factors on pages 5 to 8. The financial position of the Group, its cash flows, liquidity position and borrowing facilities are described in the financial statements and the notes to the financial statements include the company’s objectives, policies and processes for managing its capital; its financial risk management objectives; details of its financial instruments and hedging activities; and its exposures to credit risk and liquidity risk. The Company’s forecasts and projections, taking account of (i) reasonably possible declines in revenue less pass through costs; and (ii) remote declines in revenue less pass-through costs for stress-testing purposes as a consequence of the Covid-19 pandemic from April 2020 onwards compared to 2019, considering the Group’s bank covenant and liquidity headroom taking into account the suspension of share buybacks and the final dividend of 2019 and cost mitigation actions which are and which could be implemented, show that the Company and the Group would be able to operate with appropriate liquidity and within its banking covenants and be able to meet its liabilities as they fall due. The Company modelled a range of revenue less pass through costs declines from 15% to over 35%. The Directors therefore have a reasonable expectation that the Company and the Group have adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. Thus they continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in preparing the financial statements.

This section is included in the 2019 WPP Annual Report posted on the Company’s website at www.wpp.com/investors pursuant to UK requirements and is provided in this Form 20-F as supplemental information. This Annual Report on Form 20-F does not incorporate by reference information on the Company’s website. The 2019 WPP Annual Report will be furnished to the SEC on Form 6-K.

28

Summarised financial information about Guarantors and Issuers of Guaranteed Securities

WPP Finance 2010 has in issue $500 million of 3.625% bonds due September 2022, $93 million ($28 million was repaid in 2018 and $179 million was repaid in 2019 from the $300 million initially issued) of 5.125% bonds due September 2042 and $812 million of 4.75% bonds due November 2021 (repaid in full on December 27, 2019) with WPP plc as parent guarantor and WPP Air 1, WPP 2008 Limited, WPP 2005 Limited, WPP 2012 Limited and WPP Jubilee Limited as subsidiary guarantors.

For the year ended 31 December 2019, £m

	WPP Finance 2010 (issuer), WPP plc and Subsidiary Guarantors
Continuing operations
Revenue		—
Costs of services		—
Gross profit		—
Loss for the year from continuing operations		(200.8	)
Loss for the year		(200.8	)

	WPP Finance 2010 (issuer), WPP plc and Subsidiary Guarantors
Due from Non-Guarantors-long term		198.2
Non-current assets		320.1
Due from Non-Guarantors-short term		137.6
Current assets		1,215.7
Due to Non-Guarantors-short term		(11,310.2	)
Current Liabilities		(14,377.5	)
Due to Non-Guarantors-long term		(7,182.3	)
Non-current liabilities		(8,490.5	)

WPP Finance 2010 has in issue $750 million of 3.750% bonds due September 2024 and $220 million ($50 million was repaid in 2018 and $230 million was repaid in 2019 from the $500 million initially issued) of 5.625% bonds due November 2043, with WPP plc as parent guarantor and WPP Jubilee Limited and WPP 2005 Limited as subsidiary guarantors.

29

For the year ended 31 December 2019, £m

	WPP Finance 2010 (issuer), WPP plc and Subsidiary Guarantors
Continuing operations
Revenue		—
Costs of services		—
Gross profit		—
Loss for the year from continuing operations		(200.8	)
Loss for the year		(200.8	)

	WPP Finance 2010 (issuer), WPP plc and Subsidiary Guarantors
Due from Non-Guarantors-long term		198.2
Non-current assets		320.1
Due from Non-Guarantors-short term		310.7
Current assets		1,384.9
Due to Non-Guarantors-short term		(11,310.9	)
Current Liabilities		(14,378.1	)
Due to Non-Guarantors-long term		(7,182.3	)
Non-current liabilities		(8,490.5	)

The issuer and guarantors of the bonds (issuer and subsidiary guarantors are 100% owned by WPP plc) are consolidated subsidiaries of WPP plc and are each subject to the reporting requirements under section 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. The summarized financial information for WPP Finance 2010 and the guarantors is presented on a combined basis and prepared in accordance with IFRS as issued by the IASB and is intended to provide investors with meaningful financial information, and is provided pursuant to the early adoption of Rule 13-01 of Regulation S-X which allows for alternative financial disclosures or narrative disclosures in lieu of the separate financial statements of WPP Finance 2010 and the guarantors. The financial information presented is that of the issuers and guarantors of the guaranteed security, and the financial information of non-issuer and non-guarantor subsidiaries has been excluded.

In the event that WPP Finance 2010 fails to pay the holders of the securities, thereby requiring WPP plc, WPP Air 1, WPP 2008 Limited, WPP 2005 Limited, WPP 2012 Limited or WPP Jubilee Limited to make payment pursuant to the terms of their full and unconditional, and joint and several guarantee of those securities, there is no impediment to WPP plc, WPP Air 1, WPP 2008 Limited, WPP 2005 Limited, WPP 2012 Limited or WPP Jubilee Limited obtaining reimbursement for any such payments from WPP Finance 2010.

C. Research and Development, Patents and Licenses, etc.

Not applicable.

D. Trend Information

The discussion below and in the rest of this Item 5 includes forward-looking statements regarding plans, objectives, projections and anticipated future performance based on assumptions that are subject to risks and uncertainties. As such, actual results or outcomes may differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements. See “Forward-Looking Statements” preceding Item 1 in this annual report.

30

It is clear that the impact of Covid-19 on the business will be significant but it is not possible at this stage to quantify the depth or duration of the impact. As a result, we have withdrawn our previously issued guidance for the 2020 financial year.

Revenue from continuing operations in the first quarter of 2020 was £2.847 billion, down 4.9% compared with the same period last year on a reported basis and down 4.6% on a constant currency basis. Like-for-like revenue was down 3.8% compared with last year.

E. Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

None.

F. Tabular Disclosure of Contractual Obligations

The following summarises the Company’s estimated contractual obligations at 31 December 2019, and the effect such obligations are expected to have on its liquidity and cash flows in the future periods. Certain obligations presented below held by one subsidiary of the Company may be guaranteed by another subsidiary in the ordinary course of business.

			Payments due in
£m	Total		2020		2021		2022		2023		2024		Beyond 2024
Debt financing under the Revolving Credit Facility and in relation to unsecured loan notes1
Eurobonds		2,624.2		211.6		—		211.6		634.9		—		1,566.1
Sterling bonds		400.0		—		—		—		—		—		400.0
US$ bonds		1,178.3		—		—		377.0		—		565.5		235.8
Bank revolvers		101.7		5.3		96.4		—		—		—		—
Subtotal		4,304.2		216.9		96.4		588.6		634.9		565.5		2,201.9
Interest payable		1,039.1		107.9		107.6		103.5		91.4		68.7		560.0
Total		5,343.3		324.8		204.0		692.1		726.3		634.2		2,761.9
Lease liabilities2		3,002.5		385.9		384.0		335.4		283.0		220.5		1,393.7
Capital commitments3		165.0		107.3		22.7		2.4		32.6		—		—
Investment commitments3		21.8		21.8		—		—		—		—		—
Financial derivatives		21.5		4.8		6.6		5.6		5.5		5.5		(6.5	)
Estimated obligations under acquisition earnouts and put option agreements		448.3		219.1		51.8		80.5		29.6		32.6		34.7
Total contractual obligations		9,002.4		1,063.7		669.1		1,116.0		1,077.0		892.8		4,183.8

¹   In addition to debt financing under the Revolving Credit Facility and in relation to unsecured loan notes, the Company had short-term overdrafts at 31 December 2019 of £8,572.4 million. The Group’s net debt at 31 December 2019 was £1,539.6 million and is analysed in Item 5B.

²  In addition to the lease liabilities, the total committed future cash flow for leases not yet commenced at 31 December 2019 is £558.0 million. In 2019, variable lease expenses were £74.2 million which primarily include real estate taxes and insurance costs.

³  Capital and investment commitments include commitments contracted, but not provided for in respect of property, plant and equipment and in respect of interests in associates and other investments, respectively.

The Company expects to make annual contributions to its funded defined benefit plans, as determined in line with local conditions and practices. Contributions in respect of unfunded plans are paid as they fall due. The total contributions (for funded plans) and benefit payments (for unfunded plans) paid for 2019 amounted to £37.1 million (2018: £44.9 million, 2017: £68.2 million). Employer contributions and benefit payments in 2020 are expected to be approximately £25 million. Projections for years after 2020 are subject to a number of factors, including future asset performance and changes in assumptions which mean the Company is unable to make sufficiently reliable estimations of future contributions.

31

Non-GAAP Information

As introduced on page 10, the following metrics are the Group’s Non-GAAP measures.

Constant currency

The Company’s reporting currency is the UK pound sterling. However, the Company’s significant international operations give rise to fluctuations in foreign exchange rates. To neutralize foreign exchange impact and illustrate the underlying change in revenue, profit and other relevant financial statement line items from one year to the next, the Company has adopted the practice of discussing results in both reportable currency (local currency results translated into pounds sterling at the prevailing foreign exchange rate) and constant currency.

The Group uses US dollar-based, constant currency models to measure performance. These are calculated by applying budgeted 2019 exchange rates to local currency reported results for the current and prior year. This gives a US dollar-denominated income statement which excludes any variances attributable to foreign exchange rate movements.

Pro-forma (‘like-for-like’)

Management believes that discussing like-for-like contributes to the understanding of the Company’s performance and trends because it allows for meaningful comparisons of current year to that of prior years.

Pro-forma comparisons are calculated as follows: current year, constant currency actual results (which include acquisitions from the relevant date of completion) are compared with prior year, constant currency actual results, adjusted to include the results of acquisitions for the commensurate period in the prior year. The Group uses the terms ‘pro-forma’ and ‘like-for-like’ interchangeably.

The following table reconciles reported revenue growth for 2019 and 2018 to like-for-like revenue for the same period.

Continuing operations	Revenue
	£m
2017 Reportable1		13,146
Impact of exchange rate changes		(372	)	(2.9%	)
Changes in scope of consolidation		103		0.8%
Like-for-like growth		170		1.3%
2018 Reportable1		13,047		(0.8%	)
Impact of exchange rate changes		165		1.2%
Changes in scope of consolidation		22		0.2%
Like-for-like growth		—		—
2019 Reportable		13,234		1.4%
1  Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies section of the consolidated financial statements.

Headline operating profit

Headline operating profit is one of the measures that management uses to assess the performance of the business.

Headline operating profit is calculated as operating profit before gains/losses on disposal of investments and subsidiaries, investment write-downs, goodwill impairment and other goodwill write-downs, amortisation and impairment of acquired intangible assets, restructuring and transformation costs, litigation settlement, gain on sale of freehold property in New York and gains/losses on remeasurement of equity interests arising from a change in scope of ownership.

32

A tabular reconciliation of operating profit to headline operating profit is provided in note 32 to the consolidated financial statements.

Headline PBIT

Headline PBIT is one of the metrics that management uses to assess the performance of the business.

Headline PBIT is calculated as profit before finance income/costs and revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments, taxation, gains/losses on disposal of investments and subsidiaries, investment write-downs, goodwill impairment and other goodwill write-downs, amortisation and impairment of acquired intangible assets, restructuring and transformation costs, litigation settlement, gain on sale of freehold property in New York, share of exceptional gains/losses of associates and gains/losses on remeasurement of equity interests arising from a change in scope of ownership.

A tabular reconciliation of profit before interest and taxation to headline PBIT is shown below.

Continuing operations	Year ended 31 December
	20191 £m			20182 £m			20172 £m
Profit before interest and taxation		1,310.6			1,275.8			1,675.9
Amortisation and impairment of acquired intangible assets		121.5			201.8			138.0
Goodwill impairment		47.7			176.5			27.1
Gains on disposal of investments and subsidiaries		(40.4	)		(237.9	)		(98.7	)
(Gains)/losses on remeasurement of equity interests arising from a change in scope of ownership		(0.4	)		(2.0	)		0.3
Investment write-downs		7.5			2.0			91.7
Restructuring and transformation costs		153.5			265.5			56.8
Share of exceptional losses/(gains) of associates		47.8			41.5			(0.6	)
Litigation settlement		(16.8	)		—			—
Gain on sale of freehold property in New York		(7.9	)		—			—
Headline PBIT		1,623.1			1,723.2			1,890.5
1  The impact of the adoption of IFRS 16 Leases from 1 January 2019 is described in the accounting policies section of the consolidated financial statements. No restatement has been made in prior years. 2  Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies section of the consolidated financial statements.

Headline PBT

Headline PBT is one of the metrics that management uses to assess the performance of the business.

Headline PBT is calculated as profit before taxation, gains/losses on disposal of investments and subsidiaries, investment write-downs, goodwill impairment and other goodwill write-downs, amortisation and impairment of acquired intangible assets, restructuring and transformation costs, litigation settlement, gain on sale of freehold property in New York, share of exceptional gains/losses of associates, gains/losses arising from the revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments, and gains/losses on remeasurement of equity interests arising from a change in scope of ownership.

33

A tabular reconciliation of profit before taxation to headline PBT is shown below.

Continuing operations	Year ended 31 December
	20191,2 £m			20181,3 £m			20171,3 £m
Profit before taxation		1,214.3			1,019.3			1,894.0
Amortisation and impairment of acquired intangible assets		121.5			201.8			138.0
Goodwill impairment		47.7			176.5			27.1
Gains on disposal of investments and subsidiaries		(40.4	)		(237.9	)		(98.7	)
(Gains)/losses on remeasurement of equity interests arising from a change in scope of ownership		(0.4	)		(2.0	)		0.3
Investment write-downs		7.5			2.0			91.7
Restructuring and transformation costs		153.5			265.5			56.8
Share of exceptional losses/(gains) of associates		47.8			41.5			(0.6	)
Litigation settlement		(16.8	)		—			—
Gain on sale of freehold property in New York		(7.9	)		—			—
Revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments		(163.8	)		76.3			(391.0	)
Headline PBT		1,363.0			1,543.0			1,717.6
1  Figures have been restated to be in accordance with IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, as described in the accounting policies of the consolidated financial statements. 2  The impact of the adoption of IFRS 16 Leases from 1 January 2019 is described in the accounting policies section of the consolidated financial statements. No restatement has been made in prior years. 3  Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies section of the consolidated financial statements.

Billings

Billings is one of the metrics that management uses to assess the performance of the business.

Billings comprise the gross amounts billed to clients in respect of commission-based/fee-based income together with the total of other fees earned.

Free cash flow

The Group bases its internal cash flow objectives on free cash flow. Management believes free cash flow is meaningful to investors because it is the measure of the Company’s funds available for acquisition related payments, dividends to shareholders, share repurchases and debt repayment. The purpose of presenting free cash flow is to indicate the ongoing cash generation within the control of the Group after taking account of the necessary cash expenditures of maintaining the capital and operating structure of the Group (in the form of payments of interest, corporate taxation and capital expenditure). This computation may not be comparable to that of similarly titled measures presented by other companies.

Free cash flow is calculated as net cash flow from operating activities plus proceeds from the issue of shares and payments on early settlement of bonds, less earnout payments, purchases of property, plant and equipment, purchases of other intangible assets, repayment of lease liabilities and dividends paid to non-controlling interests in subsidiary undertakings.

34

A tabular reconciliation of net cash inflow from operating activities to free cash flow is shown below.

	Year ended 31 December
	2019 £m			20181 £m			20171 £m
Net cash inflow from operating activities		1,850.5			1,693.8			1,408.1
Payment on early settlement of bonds		63.4			—			—
Share option proceeds		0.6			1.2			6.4
Earnout payments		(130.2	)		(120.2	)		(199.1	)
Purchases of property, plant and equipment		(339.3	)		(314.8	)		(288.9	)
Purchases of other intangible assets (including capitalised computer software)		(54.8	)		(60.4	)		(37.3	)
Repayment of lease liabilities		(249.8	)		—			—
Dividends paid to non-controlling interests in subsidiary undertakings		(96.2	)		(106.2	)		(87.8	)
Free cash flow		1,044.2			1,093.4			801.4
1  Prior year free cash flow have been re-presented to exclude proceeds on disposal of property, plant, and equipment.

Net debt and average net debt

Management believes that net debt and average net debt are appropriate and meaningful measures of the debt levels within the Group. This is because of the seasonal swings in our working capital generally, and those resulting from our media buying activities on behalf of our clients in particular, together with the fact that we choose for commercial reasons to locate the debt of the Group in particular countries and leave cash resources in others—though our cash resources could be used to repay the debt concerned.

Net debt at a period end is calculated as the sum of the net borrowings of the Group, derived from the cash ledgers and accounts in the balance sheet. Average net debt is calculated as the average daily net borrowings of the Group. Net debt excludes lease liabilities.

The following table is an analysis of net debt:

	20191 £m			20181 £m			20171 £m
Cash and short-term deposits		11,305.7			11,065.8			11,851.0
Bank overdraft, bonds and bank loans due within one year		(8,798.0	)		(9,447.7	)		(10,083.7	)
Bonds and bank loans due after one year		(4,047.3	)		(5,634.8	)		(6,250.4	)
Net debt		(1,539.6	)		(4,016.7	)		(4,483.1	)
1  Figures have been restated to be in accordance with IAS 32 Financial Instruments: Presentation, as described in the accounting policies section of the consolidated financial statements.

35

Use of Estimates

The preparation of consolidated financial statements requires management to make estimates, judgements and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingencies at the date of the consolidated financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ materially from those estimates.

Critical Accounting Policies

The Company’s consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with IFRS as issued by the IASB. A summary of the Group’s principal accounting policies is provided in the Accounting Policies section of the consolidated financial statements. The Company believes certain of these accounting policies are particularly critical to understand the more significant judgements and estimates used in the preparation of its consolidated financial statements. Therefore, we have prepared the following supplemental discussion of critical accounting policies, which should be read together with our consolidated financial statements and notes thereto.

Goodwill and other intangibles

The Company has a significant amount of goodwill and other intangible assets. In accordance with the Group’s accounting policy, the carrying values of goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite useful lives are reviewed for impairment annually or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the asset might be impaired.

The impairment review is undertaken annually on 30 September. Under IFRS, an impairment charge is required for both goodwill and other indefinite-lived assets when the carrying amount exceeds the ‘recoverable amount’, defined as the higher of fair value less costs to sell and value in use. The review assessed whether the carrying value of goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite useful lives was supported by the value in use determined as the net present value of future cash flows.

Due to a significant number of cash-generating units, the impairment test was performed in two steps. In the first step, the recoverable amount was calculated for each cash-generating unit using a conservative pre-tax discount rate, which was above the range of rates calculated for each of the global networks, and assumed a long-term growth rate of 3.0% (2018: 3.0%). For smaller cash-generating units that operate primarily in a particular region where we calculated a discount rate to be higher than the conservative rate, that higher discount rate was used in the impairment test. Management have made the judgement that the long-term growth rate does not exceed the long-term average growth rate for the industry.

The recoverable amount was then compared to the carrying amount. Cash-generating units where the recoverable amount exceeded the carrying amount by a considerable margin were not considered to be impaired. Those cash-generating units where the recoverable amount did not exceed the carrying amount or where the recoverable amount exceeded the carrying amount by less than 25% were then further reviewed in the second step.

In the second step, the cash-generating units were retested for impairment using more specific assumptions. This included using a cash-generating unit specific pre-tax discount rate and management forecasts for a projection period of up to five years, followed by an assumed long-term growth rate. If the recoverable amount using the more specific assumptions did not exceed the carrying value of a cash-generating unit, an impairment charge was recorded.

Pre-tax discount rates were calculated for the geographic regions in which the cash-generating units operate based on market assessments of the weighted average cost of capital. These assessments considered the time-value of money and risks specific to the asset for which the future cash flow estimates had not been adjusted.

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Discount rates for each of the cash generating units that operate globally were based on a weighting of the regional rates by its geographic distribution of cash flows. As stated above, the cash-generating units were initially tested for impairment in the first step above the range using a conservative discount rate.

Our approach in determining the recoverable amount utilises a discounted cash flow methodology, which necessarily involves making numerous estimates and assumptions regarding revenue growth, operating margins, appropriate discount rates and working capital requirements. The key assumptions used for estimating cash flow projections in the Group’s impairment testing are those relating to revenue growth and operating margin. The key assumptions take account of the businesses’ expectations for the projection period. These expectations consider the macroeconomic environment, industry and market conditions, the unit’s historical performance and any other circumstances particular to the unit, such as business strategy and client mix.

These estimates will likely differ from future actual results of operations and cash flows, and it is possible that these differences could be material. In addition, judgements are applied in determining the level of cash-generating unit identified for impairment testing and the criteria used to determine which assets should be aggregated. A difference in testing levels could affect whether an impairment is recorded and the extent of impairment loss.

Changes in our business activities or structure may also result in additional changes to the level of testing in future periods. Further, future events could cause the Group to conclude that impairment indicators exist and that the asset values associated with a given operation have become impaired. The recoverable amount of goodwill represents valuations as at 31 December 2019 and does not consider the impact of the emergence and spread of the Covid-19 virus. Given the adverse impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the global economy and the likely revenue declines that are expected as a result, there is an increased likelihood of impairments to goodwill and other indefinite lived intangible assets in future reporting periods. At the current time, given the level of uncertainty, such impact has not been quantified and any resulting impairment loss could have a material impact on the Group’s financial condition and results of operations.

Historically our impairment losses have resulted from a specific event, condition or circumstance in one of our companies, such as the loss of a significant client. As a result, changes in the assumptions used in our impairment model have not had a significant effect on the impairment charges recognised and a reasonably possible change in assumptions would not lead to a significant impairment. The carrying value of goodwill and other intangible assets will continue to be reviewed at least annually for impairment and adjusted down to the recoverable amount if required.

Acquisition accounting

The Group accounts for acquisitions in accordance with IFRS 3 ‘Business Combinations’. IFRS 3 requires the acquiree’s identifiable assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities (other than non-current assets or disposal groups held for sale) to be recognised at fair value at acquisition date. In assessing fair value at acquisition date, management make their best estimate of the likely outcome where the fair value of an asset or liability may be contingent on a future event. In certain instances, the underlying transaction giving rise to an estimate may not be resolved until some years after the acquisition date. IFRS 3 requires the release to profit of any acquisition reserves which subsequently become excess in the same way as any excess costs over those provided at acquisition date are charged to profit. At each period end, management assess provisions and other balances established in respect of acquisitions for their continued probability of occurrence and amend the relevant value accordingly through the consolidated income statement or as an adjustment to goodwill as appropriate under IFRS 3. Goodwill arising from acquisitions represents the value of synergies with our existing portfolio of businesses and skilled staff to deliver services to our clients.

Future anticipated payments to vendors in respect of contingent consideration (earnout agreements) are initially recorded at fair value which is the present value of the expected cash outflows of the obligations. The obligations

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are dependent on the future financial performance of the interests acquired (typically over a four- to five-year period following the year of acquisition) and assume the operating companies improve profits in line with Directors’ estimates. The Directors derive their estimates from internal business plans together with financial due diligence performed in connection with the acquisition. Subsequent adjustments to the fair value are recorded in the consolidated income statement within revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments. A summary of earnout related obligations included in trade and other payables is shown in note 20 to the consolidated financial statements.

WPP has also entered into option agreements that allow the Group’s equity partners to require the Group to purchase a non-controlling interest. These agreements are treated as derivatives over equity instruments and are recorded in the consolidated balance sheet initially at the present value of the redemption amount in accordance with IAS 32 Financial Instruments: Presentation and subsequently measured at fair value in accordance with IFRS 9 Financial Instruments. The movement in the fair value is recognised as income or expense within revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments in the consolidated income statement.

Actual performance may differ from the assumptions used resulting in amounts ultimately paid out with respect to these earnout and option agreements at more or less than the recorded liabilities. Estimates are required regarding growth rates in deriving future financial performance and discount rates to be applied when measuring the liabilities for earnout and option agreements. The assumptions and sensitivity to changes in these assumptions is shown in note 27 to the consolidated financial statements.

Revenue recognition

The Group is a leading worldwide creative transformation organisation offering national and multinational clients a comprehensive range of communications, experience, commerce and technology services. Contracts often involve multiple agencies offering different services in different countries. As such, the terms of local, regional and global contracts can vary to meet client needs and regulatory requirements. Consistent with the industry, contracts are typically short-term in nature and tend to be cancellable by either party with 90 days’ notice.

The Group is generally entitled to payment for work performed to date. The Group is generally paid in arrears for its services. Invoices are typically payable within 30 to 60 days. Revenue comprises commissions and fees earned in respect of amounts billed and is stated exclusive of VAT, sales taxes and trade discounts. Pass-through costs comprise fees paid to external suppliers when they are engaged to perform part or all of a specific project and are charged directly to clients, predominantly media and data collection costs. Costs to obtain a contract are typically expensed as incurred as the contracts are generally short-term in nature.

In most instances, promised services in a contract are not considered distinct or represent a series of services that are substantially the same with the same pattern of transfer to the customer and, as such, are accounted for as a single performance obligation. However, where there are contracts with services that are capable of being distinct, are distinct within the context of the contract, and are accounted for as separate performance obligations, revenue is allocated to each of the performance obligations based on relative standalone selling prices.

Revenue is recognised when a performance obligation is satisfied, in accordance with the terms of the contractual arrangement. Typically, performance obligations are satisfied over time as services are rendered. Revenue recognised over time is based on the proportion of the level of service performed. Either an input method or an output method, depending on the particular arrangement, is used to measure progress for each performance obligation. For most fee arrangements, costs incurred are used as an objective input measure of performance. The primary input of substantially all work performed under these arrangements is labour. There is normally a direct relationship between costs incurred and the proportion of the contract performed to date. In other circumstances relevant output measures, such as the achievement of any project milestones stipulated in the contract, are used to assess proportional performance.

For our retainer arrangements, we have a stand ready obligation to perform services on an ongoing basis over the life of the contract. The scope of these arrangements are broad and generally are not reconcilable to another input

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or output criteria. In these instances, revenue is recognised using a time-based method resulting in straight-line revenue recognition.

The amount of revenue recognised depends on whether we act as an agent or as a principal. Certain arrangements with our clients are such that our responsibility is to arrange for a third party to provide a specified good or service to the client. In these cases we are acting as an agent as we do not control the relevant good or service before it is transferred to the client. When we act as an agent, the revenue recorded is the net amount retained. Costs incurred with external suppliers (such as production costs and media suppliers) are excluded from revenue and recorded as work in progress until billed.

The Group acts as principal when we control the specified good or service prior to transfer. When the Group acts as a principal (such as when supplying in-house production services, events and branding), the revenue recorded is the gross amount billed. Billings related to out-of-pocket costs such as travel are also recognised at the gross amount billed with a corresponding amount recorded as an expense. Further details on revenue recognition are detailed by sector below:

Global Integrated Agencies

Revenue is typically derived from integrated product offerings including media placements and creative services. Revenue may consist of various arrangements involving commissions, fees, incentive-based revenue or a combination of the three, as agreed upon with each client. Revenue for commissions on purchased media is typically recognised at the point in time the media is run.

The Group receives volume rebates from certain suppliers for transactions entered into on behalf of clients that, based on the terms of the relevant contracts and local law, are either remitted to clients or retained by the Group. If amounts are passed on to clients they are recorded as liabilities until settled or, if retained by the Group, are recorded as revenue when earned.

Variable incentive-based revenue typically comprises both quantitative and qualitative elements. Incentive compensation is estimated using the most likely amount and is included in revenue up to the amount that is highly probable not to result in a significant reversal of cumulative revenue recognised. The Group recognises incentive revenue as the related performance obligation is satisfied.

Public Relations and Specialist Agencies

Revenue for these services is typically derived from retainer fees and fees for services to be performed subject to specific agreement. Most revenue under these arrangements is earned over time, in accordance with the terms of the contractual arrangement.

Discontinued Operations (Data Investment Management)

Revenue for market research services is typically recognised over time based on input measures. For certain performance obligations, output measures such as the percentage of interviews completed, percentage of reports delivered to a client and the achievement of any project milestones stipulated in the contract are used to measure progress. While most of the studies provided in connection with the Group’s market research contracts are undertaken in response to an individual client’s or group of clients’ specifications, in certain instances a study may be developed as an off-the-shelf product offering sold to a broad client base. For these transactions, revenue is recognised when the product is delivered. When the terms of the transaction provide for licensing the right to access a product on a subscription basis, revenue is recognised over the subscription period, typically on a straight-line basis.

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Deferred consideration on the Kantar disposal

As per the terms of the Kantar disposal, deferred consideration consisted of amounts expected to be received in future periods on satisfaction of certain conditions and the deferral of consideration against services to be provided to Kantar in the future, as detailed in note 12 to the consolidated financial statement. Estimates are required in determining amounts to be received and the value of services to be provided, taking into account uncertainty in the ultimate timing and resolution of each of these. The sensitivity to these estimates is specific to each individual circumstance and no individual estimate is expected to result in a material change to the amount recognised.

Non-current assets held for sale and discontinued operations

Under IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations where certain conditions are met, an asset or disposal group that is for sale should be recognised as “held for sale”. An entity should classify a disposal group as held for sale if the carrying amount will be recovered principally through a sale transaction rather than through continuing use. For this to be the case, the disposal group must be available for immediate sale in its present condition subject only to terms that are usual and customary for sales of such assets and its sale must be highly probable. Such assets are measured at the lower of carrying amount and fair value less costs to sell, and are not depreciated or amortised, excluding certain assets that are carried at fair value under IFRS 5. Furthermore, when an associate is classified as held for sale, equity accounting ceases.

A discontinued operation is a component of the entity that has been disposed of or is classified as held for sale and that represents a separate major line of business or geographical area of operations, is part of a single co-ordinated plan to dispose of such a line of business or area of operations, or is a subsidiary acquired exclusively with a view to resale. The profit or loss from a discontinued operation is shown as a single amount on the face of the income statement and the comparatives and related notes restated accordingly. This represents total post-tax profit of the disposal group for the whole of the financial year including any post-tax gain or loss on the measurement of fair value less costs to sell, as well as the post-tax loss on sale of the disposal group. Assets and liabilities classified as held for sale are shown as a separate line on the balance sheet.

Retirement benefit costs

Pension costs are assessed in accordance with the advice of local independent qualified actuaries. The latest full actuarial valuations for the various plans were carried out at various dates in the last three years. These valuations have been updated by the local actuaries to 31 December 2019.

The Group’s policy is to close existing defined benefit plans to new members. This has been implemented across a significant number of pension plans. As a result, these plans generally have an ageing membership population. In accordance with IAS 19, Defined Benefit Plans, the actuarial calculations have been carried out using the projected unit credit method. In these circumstances, use of this method implies that the contribution rate implicit in the current service cost will increase in future years.

There are a number of areas in the pension accounting that involve judgements made by management based on the advice of qualified advisors. These include establishing the discount rates, rate of increase in salaries and pensions in payment, inflation and mortality assumptions. A sensitivity analysis for each significant actuarial assumption is shown in note 24 to the consolidated financial statements.

Most of the Group’s pension plan assets are held by its plans in the UK and North America. Management considers the types of investment classes in which the pension plan assets are invested. The types of investment classes are determined by economic and market conditions and in consideration of specific asset class risk.

Management periodically commissions detailed asset and liability studies performed by third-party professional investment advisors and actuaries that generate probability-adjusted expected future returns on those assets.

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These studies also project the estimated future pension payments and evaluate the efficiency of the allocation of the pension plan assets into various investment categories.

Taxation

Corporate taxes are payable on taxable profits at current rates. The tax expense represents the sum of the tax currently payable and deferred tax.

The Group is subject to corporate taxes in a number of different jurisdictions and judgement is required in determining the appropriate provision for transactions where the ultimate tax determination is uncertain. In such circumstances, the Group recognises liabilities for anticipated taxes based on the best information available and where the anticipated liability is both probable and estimable, liabilities are classified as current. Any interest and penalties accrued are included in corporate income taxes both in the consolidated income statement and balance sheet. Where the final outcome of such matters differs from the amount recorded, any differences may impact the income tax and deferred tax provisions in the period in which the final determination is made.

We record deferred tax assets and liabilities using tax rates that are expected to apply in the period when the liability is settled or the asset is realised based on enacted, or substantively enacted legislation, for the effect of temporary differences between book and tax bases of assets and liabilities. Currently we have deferred tax assets resulting from operating loss carryforwards and deductible temporary differences, all of which could reduce taxable income in the future. The main factors that we consider include:

• the future earnings potential determined through the use of internal forecasts;

• the cumulative losses in recent years;

• the various jurisdictions in which the potential deferred tax assets arise;

• the history of losses carried forward and other tax assets expiring;

• the timing of future reversal of taxable temporary differences;

• the expiry period associated with the deferred tax assets; and

• the nature of the income that can be used to realise the deferred tax asset.

If it is probable that some portion of these assets will not be realised, then no asset is recognised in relation to that portion.

If market conditions improve and future results of operations exceed our current expectations, our existing recognised deferred tax assets may be adjusted, resulting in future tax benefits. Alternatively, if market conditions deteriorate further or future results of operations are less than expected, future assessments may result in a determination that some or all of the deferred tax assets are not realisable. As a result, all or a portion of the deferred tax assets may need to be reversed.

New IFRS Accounting Pronouncements

See page F-5 of the consolidated financial statements for a description of new IFRS accounting pronouncements.

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ITEM 6. DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND EMPLOYEES

A. Directors and Senior Management

The Directors and Executive Officers of the Company are as follows:

Roberto Quarta, Age 70: Chairman. Roberto Quarta was appointed as a Director on 1 January 2015 and became Chairman on 9 June 2015. Roberto has extensive and diverse experience in corporate governance and global commerce. He is Partner and Chairman of Clayton, Dubilier & Rice Europe, a private equity firm, which allows him to bring valuable perspective to WPP, particularly when evaluating acquisitions and new business opportunities. Roberto has an in-depth understanding of differing global governance requirements having served on the boards of a number of UK and international companies, including as Chairman of BBA Group plc, IMI plc and Rexel SA and as Non-Executive Director of BAE Systems plc, Equant NV and Foster Wheeler AG.

Other current appointments: Chairman, Smith & Nephew plc.

Mark Read, Age 53: Chief Executive Officer. Mark Read was appointed as an Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer on 3 September 2018. Mark has held multiple leadership positions at WPP, having first joined the Company in 1989. As Head of Strategy and then CEO of WPP Digital he was responsible for WPP’s first moves into technology. Earlier in his career, he co-founded internet start-up WebRewards and specialised in media and marketing as a principal at consultancy Booz Allen & Hamilton. In 2015, he became Global CEO of Wunderman, which he transformed into one of the world’s leading creative, data and technology agencies. Mark is regularly named among the world’s top digital influencers. He is the Chairman of the Natural History Museum Digital Council and was recognised as a HERoes Champion of Women in Business in 2018 and 2019.

Paul Richardson, Age 62: Group Finance Director. Paul Richardson became Group Finance Director of WPP in 1996 after four years as Director of Treasury. Paul is responsible for the Company’s worldwide functions in finance, information technology, procurement, property, treasury, taxation, internal audit and sustainability. Paul is a chartered accountant and fellow of the Association of Corporate Treasurers. Paul will retire from the Board on 1 May 2020.

Nicole Seligman, Age 63: Senior Independent Director, Non-Executive Director. Nicole Seligman was appointed as a Director on 1 January 2014. Nicole is a global business leader and an internationally recognised lawyer. She brings to the Board analytical skills, in-depth knowledge of public company corporate governance and a comprehensive understanding of media and business issues. Nicole was previously President of Sony Entertainment, Inc. and global General Counsel for Sony Corporation. Prior to that, as a partner at law firm Williams & Connolly, Nicole represented key public figures and major media and other companies in complex litigation.

Other current appointments: Non-Executive Director, ViacomCBS Inc. Non-Executive Director, Far Point Acquisition Corporation. Non-Executive Director, MeiraGTx Holdings plc.

Jacques Aigrain, Age 65: Non-Executive Director. Jacques Aigrain was appointed as a Director on 13 May 2013. Jacques brings business, corporate finance and governance expertise to his role on the Board of WPP. Currently a Senior Advisor at Warburg Pincus LLP, from 2001 to 2009 he was a member of the Executive Committee of Swiss Re AG. Prior to Swiss Re, he spent 20 years with JPMorgan Chase. Jacques was previously Chairman of LCH Clearnet Group Ltd, a Director of the Qatar Financial Center Authorities and a Supervisory Board Member of Lufthansa AG and Swiss International Airlines AG.

Other current appointments: Chairman, LyondellBasell NV. Non-Executive Director, London Stock Exchange Group plc. Chairman, Singular SAU.

Tarek Farahat, Age 55: Non-Executive Director. Tarek Farahat was appointed as a Director on 11 October 2016. Tarek has extensive leadership and brand-building experience gained in leading businesses in the

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Americas, Europe, Middle East and Africa. He worked for Procter & Gamble for over 26 years in Europe, the Middle East and Latin America, leading multi-billion-dollar businesses for the company. His last position at Procter & Gamble was President of Procter & Gamble Latin America and member of the Global Leadership Council. Tarek was previously Chairman of the board of JBS S.A. and a board member of Pilgrims Pride Corporation and Alpargatas. Tarek is currently a strategic advisor, consultant and partner for companies in the consumer goods and healthcare sectors.

Sir John Hood, Age 68: Non-Executive Director. Sir John Hood was appointed as a Director on 1 January 2014. Sir John brings deep knowledge and experience of international business to the Board, and provides analytical rigour arising from his leadership roles in higher education and research. He has held advisory roles for the New Zealand and British governments and has served as a Non-Executive Director of British and New Zealand based enterprises. He was formerly Vice Chancellor of the University of Oxford and the University of Auckland.

Other current appointments: President and CEO, Robertson Foundation. Non-Executive Director, Aurora Energy Research. Non-Executive Director, The Blackstone Group Inc.

Daniela Riccardi, Age 60: Non-Executive Director. Daniela Riccardi was appointed as a Director on 12 September 2013. A senior FMCG, retail and fashion products executive, Daniela is a recognised leader in business development and branding. She is currently CEO of Baccarat, the international luxury goods company, and was previously CEO of Diesel Group. Daniela has substantial global business experience, having spent 25 years at Procter & Gamble in senior management roles around the world – including Vice President of Procter & Gamble Colombia, Mexico and Venezuela, Vice President and General Manager of Procter & Gamble Eastern Europe & Russia and President of Procter & Gamble Greater China.

Other current appointments: CEO, Baccarat. Non-Executive Director, Kering. Non-Executive Director, Comité Colbert.

Cindy Rose OBE, Age 54: Non-Executive Director. Cindy Rose was appointed as a Director on 1 April 2019. A high-profile leader in the technology and media sectors, Cindy has a deep understanding of the role of technology in business transformation. As Microsoft UK CEO since 2016, she is responsible for Microsoft’s product, service and support offerings across the UK. Prior to Microsoft, she was Managing Director of the UK Consumer division at Vodafone where she led the expansion of its retail store estate from 350 to over 500 stores. Before Vodafone, Cindy was Executive Director of Digital Entertainment at Virgin Media. She also spent 15 years at The Walt Disney Company, ultimately as SVP & Managing Director of Disney Interactive Media Group.

Sally Susman, Age 58: Non-Executive Director. Sally Susman was appointed as a Director on 13 May 2013. Sally brings expertise in communications, public affairs, governance and strategy to the Board. She is Executive Vice President, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer for Pfizer, the world’s largest biopharmaceutical company. She also heads Pfizer’s corporate responsibility group and plays a key role in shaping policy initiatives. Before joining Pfizer in 2007, Sally was EVP of Global Communications at Estée Lauder, where she directed global corporate affairs strategy and served as a member of the Executive Committee. Sally previously held several senior corporate affairs posts at American Express, in both London and the United States.

Other current appointments: Co-Chair, International Rescue Committee.

Solomon D. (Sol) Trujillo, Age 68: Non-Executive Director. Solomon D. (Sol) Trujillo was appointed as a Director on 12 October 2010. An international business executive with three decades of leading high-cap global companies in the United States, Europe and Asia Pacific, Sol has wide board and corporate governance experience in the technology, media and digital sectors. Sol has managed operations in over 25 countries from Europe and North America to China, Australasia, Africa and the Middle East. He is a Senior Advisor to Bain & Company and Chairman of Trujillo Group LLC, which manages investments and examines emerging trends in the broader digital space.

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Other current appointments: Director, Western Union. Chairman, Silk Road Telecommunications.

Keith Weed, Age 58: Non-Executive Director. Keith Weed was appointed as a Director on 1 November 2019. Keith has a deep understanding of WPP’s business, the ways in which technology is transforming marketing and the sectors in which WPP operates. Keith was named the World’s Most Influential Chief Marketing Officer by Forbes in 2017, 2018 and 2019, and Global Marketer of the Year 2017 by the World Federation of Advertisers. He received The Drum’s Lifetime Achievement Award in 2018 and was inducted into the Marketing Hall of Fame in 2019. From 2010 to 2019, Keith was Chief Marketing and Communications Officer at Unilever, a role that included creating and leading Unilever’s ground-breaking sustainability programme.

Other current appointments: Board member, Business in the Community. Board member, Grange Park Opera. President, the UK Advertising Association.

Jasmine Whitbread, Age 56: Non-Executive Director. Jasmine Whitbread was appointed as a Director on 1 September 2019. Jasmine’s experience spans marketing, technology, finance, media, telecommunications and not-for-profit organisations. Jasmine brings this breadth of perspective and knowledge of many of WPP’s client sectors to the Board. Jasmine is currently Chief Executive of London First. Between 2005 and 2015, Jasmine worked for Save the Children, from 2010, as International Chief Executive Officer. In this role, Jasmine led the merger of 14 separate organisations into one management line of 15,000 people across seven regions and 60 countries. Jasmine began her career in international marketing in the technology sector. Jasmine has previously served as a Non-Executive Director of BT Group plc.

Other current appointments: Non-Executive Director, Standard Chartered plc.

Sandrine Dufour, Age 53: Non-Executive Director. Sandrine Dufour since year-end was appointed as a Director on 3 February 2020. Sandrine brings deep financial expertise gained in global companies and strong strategic capability to the Board. Sandrine has executive leadership experience in the telecommunications, entertainment and media industries and an enthusiasm for cultural, technological and business transformation. Sandrine is currently Chief Financial Officer of Proximus. Prior to Proximus, Sandrine held a number of leadership roles at Vivendi, in France and in the United States, across its entertainment and telecommunications business, covering areas including finance and strategy, M&A, innovation and transformation. Sandrine has held non-executive director roles, most recently at Solocal Group. Sandrine will become CFO of UCB on 1 July 2020.

John Rogers, Age 51: Chief Financial Officer Designate. John Rogers since year-end became Chief Financial Officer Designate of WPP in February 2020, joining from J Sainsbury plc where he was Chief Executive Officer of Argos, leading its integration into the Sainsbury’s business and its digital transformation into one of the UK’s leading online retailers. He was previously the Chief Financial Officer of J Sainsbury plc, responsible for its business strategy, new business development, Sainsbury’s Online and Sainsbury’s Bank, in addition to its core finance functions. John is a member of The Prince’s Advisory Council for Accounting for Sustainability. He also recently sat on the Retail Sector Council, which acts as a point of liaison between the UK Government and retail sector.

Other current appointments: Non-Executive Director, Travis Perkins plc.

The independence of each Non-Executive Director is assessed annually by the Board under the UK Corporate Governance Code which applies in respect of WPP’s primary listing on the London Stock Exchange. The Board has confirmed that all of the Non-Executive Directors standing for election and re-election at the 2020 AGM continue to demonstrate the characteristics of independence.

B. Compensation

Directors’ Compensation

For the fiscal year ended 31 December 2019 the aggregate compensation paid by WPP to all directors and officers of WPP as a group for services in all capacities was £8.3 million. Such compensation was paid by WPP

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and its subsidiaries primarily in the form of salaries, performance-related bonuses, other benefits and deferred share awards. The sum of £0.5 million was set aside and paid in the last fiscal year to provide pension benefits for directors and officers of WPP.

Executive Directors’ total compensation received

Single total figure of remuneration

2019	Base salary		Benefits3		Pension4		Short-term   incentive5				Long-term Incentive6		Total annual compensation
	£000		£000		£000		Cash £000		Deferred £000		£000		£000
Mark Read		975		35		171		805		537		71		2,594
Paul Richardson1,2		840		67		252		670		—		201		2,030

¹   Paul Richardson’s base salary figure is denominated in US dollars other than his fee for his directorship of WPP plc which amounts to £100,000 which, per above, has been converted at an exchange rate of $1.2765 to £1.

²  Any US dollar amounts received in 2019 have been converted into pound sterling at an exchange rate of $1.2765 to £1.

³  Benefits are fixed non-itemised allowance enabling executives to procure benefits to enable them to undertake their role and ensure their wellbeing and security. This allowance excludes the disclosable value of expenses related directly to attendance at Board meetings that would be chargeable to UK income tax. The expenses for Mark Read were £2,442 and for Paul Richardson were £7,626.

⁴  Pension is provided by way of contribution to a defined contribution retirement arrangement, or as a cash allowance, determined as a percentage of base salary. Contributions/allowances are as follows (as % of base salary): CEO—20% and CFO—30%. Mark Read was awarded an allowance of 20% less employer’s national insurance contribution of 13.8% resulting in a net pension contribution of 17.6%

⁵  In respect of the 2019 short-term incentive awards, 40% of the total award achieved by Mark Read will be delivered in the form of shares as an Executive Share Award (ESA) with a two-year deferral period. Paul Richardson, who retires on 1 May 2020, is not eligible to receive the ESA portion of his short-term incentive plan (STIP). The STIP shown in the table for Paul Richardson represents only the cash element, 60% of the total. Cash bonuses and ESAs are subject to both malus and clawback provisions.

⁶  This is the value of the 2015 Executive Performance Share Plan (EPSP) awards which vested in 2019 assessed over a five-year period. None of the value of vested awards above is attributable to share price appreciation.

Vesting of 2015 – 2019 EPSP awards

Vesting of the 2015 EPSP awards was dependent on performance against three measures, all assessed over a five-year period, which include relative Total Shareholder Returns (TSR), Earnings Per Share (EPS) growth and average annual Return On Equity (ROE).

	Number of shares awarded		Additional shares in respect of dividend accrual		Number of shares vesting		Share/ADR price on vesting		Value of vested 2015-2019 EPSP awards 000
Mark Read		65,910		2,097		11,845	£	6.0000	£	71
Paul Richardson1		37,970		1,217		6,832	$	37.48095	$	256

¹   Paul Richardson’s EPSP awards were granted in the form of ADRs.

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Outstanding share-based awards

Executive Share Awards (ESAs) held by Executive Directors

All Executive Share Awards or Performance Share Awards (PSA) granted under the Restricted Stock Plan and its successor, the WPP Stock Plan 2018, are made on the basis of satisfaction of previous performance conditions and are subject to continuous employment until the vesting date. Mark Read received ESAs and PSA awards prior to his appointment as Executive Director. Unless otherwise noted, awards are made in the form of WPP ordinary shares.

		Grant date		Share/ADR price on grant date		No. of Shares/ADRs granted2		Face value on grant date 0003		Additional shares granted in lieu of dividends		Total shares vesting		Vesting date		Shares/ ADR price on vesting		Value on vesting 000
Mark Read	2016 PSA		06.06.17		£17.2050		25,573		£440		2,553		28,126		10.03.19		£8.5458		£240
	2017 PSA		12.06.18		£12.3800		38,317		£474		—		—		10.03.20		—		—
	2018 ESA		30.05.19		£9.4840		62,834		£596		—		—		06.03.21		—		—
Paul Richardson1	2016 ESA		06.06.17		$110.7600		9,280		$1,028		933		10,213		06.03.19	$	57.3447		$586
	2018 ESA		30.05.19		$60.06		2,847		$171		—		—		06.03.21		—		—

¹   Paul Richardson’s ESAs were granted in respect of ADRs.

²  Dividend shares will be due on these awards.

³  Face value has been calculated using the average closing share price for the trading day preceding the date of grant (as set out in the table).

Mark Read received awards prior to his appointment as CEO under the management incentive plans. In addition, he received awards on his appointment as joint-COO in April 2018. While the Board decided on the appointment of the next CEO, a special one-off award was made recognising the importance and scale of the additional responsibilities that were being undertaken. Each award is subject to continuous employment and malus and clawback and was made under the Restricted Stock Plan and the WPP Stock Plan 2018.

		Grant date		Share/ADR price on grant date		No. of Shares /ADRs granted2		Face value on grant date 0003		Additional shares granted in lieu of dividends		Total shares vesting		Vesting date		Shares/ADR price on vesting		Value on vesting 000
Mark Read	Leaders 2016		28.11.16		£17.0550		8,795		£150		1,477		10,272		15.11.19		£9.8378		£101
	Leaders 2017		04.12.17		£13.0850		11,463		£150		—		—		15.11.20		—		—
	Special award1		12.06.18		£12.3800		40,387		£500		2,300		42,687		01.05.19	£	9.6800		£413
	Special award1		12.06.18		£12.3800		80,774		£1,000		—		—		01.05.20 and 01.05.21		—		—

¹   The first tranche of the one-off special award vested on 1 May 2019. The remaining two tranches will vest in equal parts on 1 May 2020 and 1 May 2021.

²  Dividend shares will be due on these awards.

³  Face value has been calculated using the average closing share price for the trading day preceding the date of grant (as set out in the table).

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Long-term incentive plans – EPSP

The following table summarises all of the awards outstanding under the EPSP.

	Grant date		Performance period		Shares/ ADR price on grant date		Maximum number of nil cost options over shares/ADRs awarded2		During 2019
									Options vested/ (lapsed)		Additional dividend shares		Options exercised		Maximum number of nil cost options over shares/ADRs at 31 December 2019
Mark Read		09.06.15		01.01.15-31.12.19	£	15.1720		65,910		—		—		—		65,910
		28.11.16		01.01.16-31.12.20	£	17.0520		58,644		—		—		—		58,644
		04.12.17		01.01.17-31.12.21	£	12.9110		106,498		—		—		—		106,498
		06.12.18		01.01.18-31.12.22	£	8.6040		396,617		—		—		—		396,617
		24.09.19		01.01.19-31.12.23	£	10.0350		340,059		—		—		—		340,059
Paul Richardson1		09.06.15		01.01.15-31.12.19	$	115.8800		37,970		—		—		—		37,970
		28.11.16		01.01.16-31.12.20	$	105.9309		41,536		—		—		—		41,536
		04.12.17		01.01.17-31.12.21	$	86.9138		36,933		—		—		—		36,933
		06.12.18		01.01.18-31.12.22	$	55.2631		58,628		—		—		—		58,628
		24.09.19		01.01.19-31.12.23	$	62.6530		51,593		—		—		—		51,593

¹   Paul Richardson’s EPSP awards were granted in respect of ADRs.

²  Dividend shares will be due on these awards.

Non-Executive Directors’ total compensation received

The single total figure of compensation table below details fee payments received by the Non-Executive Directors while they held a position on the Board.

	Fees £000
	2019
Roberto Quarta		500
Jacques Aigrain		145
Tarek Farahat		105
Sir John Hood		125
Ruigang Li1		44
Daniela Riccardi		95
Cindy Rose2		79
Nicole Seligman		145
Sally Susman		98
Sol Trujillo		105
Keith Weed3		17
Jasmine Whitbread4		37

¹   Ruigang Li retired from the Board on 12 June 2019.

²  Cindy Rose was appointed to the Board on 1 April 2019.

³  Keith Weed was appointed to the Board on 1 November 2019.

⁴  Jasmine Whitbread was appointed to the Board on 1 September 2019.

Past directors

Since his retirement from the Board, Timothy Shriver has been appointed as a consultant advising the Company on certain client relationships. He received a payment of £155,267 in 2019 for his consultancy services.

Sir Martin Sorrell left the Company in April 2018. His outstanding share awards granted under the Executive Performance Share Plan (EPSP) have been prorated to reflect his service period and will vest to the extent that

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performance conditions are achieved. The table below sets out details of the 2015 award that vested on 12 March 2020 based on performance achieved.

	Plan		Number of shares awarded		Additional shares in respect of dividend accrual		Number of shares vesting		Share price on vesting		Value of vested 2015-2019 EPSP awards 000
Sir Martin Sorrell		2015 EPSP		738,267		15,270		86,243	£	6.0000	£	517

The full Directors’ Compensation Policy can be found at www.wpp.com/investors/corporate-governance. This Annual Report on Form 20-F does not incorporate by reference information on the Company’s website.

C. Board Practices

Board attendance table
	Board (scheduled meetings)		Board (unscheduled meetings) 1		Audit Committee		Compensation Committee
Roberto Quarta		6/6		4/4				7/7
Mark Read		6/6		4/4
Paul Richardson		6/6		4/4
Jacques Aigrain		6/6		4/4		9/9		7/7
Tarek Farahat		6/6		3/4		9/9
Sir John Hood		6/6		4/4				7/7
Daniela Riccardi		6/6		3/4
Cindy Rose OBE – appointed on 1 April 2019		4/4		3/4		4/5
Nicole Seligman		6/6		4/4				7/7
Sally Susman		6/6		3/4
Solomon D. (Sol) Trujillo		6/6		4/4		8/9
Keith Weed – appointed on 1 November 2019		1/1
Jasmine Whitbread – appointed on 1 September 2019		2/2		1/1				2/2
Former Directors who served for part of the year
Ruigang Li – retired on 12 June 2019		0/3		0/1

¹  Additional unscheduled meetings of the Board took place in relation to the sale of 60% of Kantar.

The role of the Board

The Board is responsible to shareholders for the Company’s financial and operational performance and risk management, and the culture embedded across the Group, and is collectively responsible for promoting the long-term success of the Company. There is a formal schedule of matters reserved to the Board which is published on the Company’s website. The key focus of the Board’s activities in 2019 have been oversight of the implementation of the three year transformation plan with considerable time devoted to the disposal of 60% of Kantar, board succession for both Non-Executive Directors and the new Chief Financial Officer, risk and controls and the progress of embedding the right culture across the Group. The list of matters reserved to the Board can be downloaded from www.wpp.com/investors/corporate-governance. This Annual Report on Form 20-F does not incorporate by reference information on the Company’s website.

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Re-election

The Directors submit themselves for annual re-election at each AGM, if they wish to continue serving and are considered by the Board to be eligible. Directors may be appointed by shareholders by ordinary resolution or by the Board on the recommendation of the Nomination and Governance Committee and must then stand for re-election at the next AGM, where they may be re-elected by ordinary resolution of the shareholders. With only specific exceptions to ensure Board continuity, Non-Executive Directors shall not stand for re-election after they have served for the period of their independence, as determined by applicable UK and US standards, which is nine years. Three of our long-standing Non-Executive Directors, Solomon Trujillo, Sir John Hood and Daniela Riccardi will not stand for re-election at the 2020 AGM. Jasmine Whitbread will succeed Sir John Hood as Chairman of the Compensation Committee following the AGM. Refer to Item 6A for the appointment date of each Director.

Service contracts

The Company’s policy on Executive Directors’ service contracts is that they should be on a rolling basis without a specific end date. The effective dates and notice periods under the current Executive Directors’ service contracts are shown below:

	Effective from		Notice period
Mark Read		3 September 2018		12 months
Paul Richardson1		19 November 2008		12 months
John Rogers		27 January 2020		12 months

¹   Paul Richardson will retire from the Company with effect from 1 May 2020.

The Executive Directors’ service contracts are available for inspection at the Company’s registered office and head office.

Loss of office provisions

Fixed compensation elements

As noted above, the service contracts of the executives provide for notice to be given on termination.

The fixed compensation elements of the contract will continue to be paid in respect of any notice period. There are no provisions relating to payment in lieu of notice. If an Executive Director is placed on garden leave, the Compensation Committee retains the discretion to settle benefits in the form of cash. The Executive Directors are entitled to compensation for any accrued and unused holiday although, to the extent it is possible and in shareholder interests, the Committee will encourage Executive Directors to use their leave entitlements prior to the end of their notice period. Except in respect of any remaining notice period, no aspect of any Executive Director’s fixed compensation is payable on termination of employment.

Short- and long-term compensation elements

If the Executive Director is dismissed for cause, there is not an entitlement to a STIP award, and any unvested share- based awards will lapse. Otherwise, the table below summarises the relevant provisions from the Directors’ service contracts (cash bonus) and the plan rules (ESA and EPSP), which apply in other leaver scenarios. The Compensation Committee has the authority to ensure that any awards that vest or lapse are treated in accordance with the plan rules, which are more extensive than the summary set out in the table below.

Cash bonus	The Executive Directors are entitled to receive their bonus for any particular year provided they are employed on the last date of the performance period.
ESA	Provided the Executive Director is a Good Leaver, unvested awards will be reduced on a time pro-rata basis and paid on the vesting date.

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EPSP	•   The award will lapse if the Executive Director leaves during the first year of a performance period.
	•   Provided the Executive Director is a Good Leaver, awards will vest subject to performance at the end of the performance period and time pro-rating. Awards will be paid on the normal date.
	•   In exceptional circumstances, the Compensation Committee may determine that an award will vest on a different basis.
	•   Generally, in the event of death, the performance conditions are to be assessed as at the date of death. However, the Compensation Committee retains the discretion to deal with an award due to a deceased executive on any other basis that it considers appropriate.
	•   Awards will vest immediately on a change of control subject to performance and time pro-rating will be applied unless it is agreed by the Compensation Committee and the relevant Executive Director that the outstanding awards are exchanged for equivalent new awards.

Other Compensation Committee discretions not set out above

Leaver status: the Compensation Committee has the discretion to determine an executive’s leaver classification considering the guidance set out within the relevant plan rules.

Settlement agreements: the Compensation Committee is authorised to reach settlement agreements with departing executives, informed by the default position set out above.

External appointments

Executive Directors are permitted to serve as non-executives on the boards of other organisations. If the Company is a shareholder in that organisation, non-executive fees for those roles are waived. However, if the Company is not a shareholder in that organisation, any non-executive fees can be retained by the office holder.

Other chairman and non-executive director policies

Letters of appointment for the chairman and non-executive directors

Letters of appointment have a one- to two-month notice period and there are no payments due on loss of office.

Appointments to the Board

The Chairman and Non-Executive Directors are not eligible to receive any variable pay. Fees for any new Non-Executive Directors will be consistent with the operating policy at their time of appointment. In respect of the appointment of a new Chairman, the Compensation Committee has the discretion to set fees considering a range of factors including the profile and prior experience of the candidate and external market data.

Payments in exceptional circumstances

In unforeseen and exceptional circumstances, the Compensation Committee retains the discretion to make emergency payments which might not otherwise be covered by this policy. The Committee will not use this power to exceed the recruitment policy limit, nor will awards be made in excess of the limits set out in the Directors’ Compensation Policy table. An example of such an exceptional circumstance could be the untimely death of a director, requiring another director to take on an interim role until a permanent replacement is found.

Compensation Committee

During 2019, the Compensation Committee met seven times on a formal basis, with additional informal meetings held as needed to deal with ad hoc matters. A table of Board and Committee attendance can be found on page 47.

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The Committee members have no personal financial interest (other than as a shareholder as disclosed on page 56) in the matters to be decided by the Committee, potential conflicts of interest arising from cross-directorships, or day-to-day involvement in running the Group’s businesses. The terms of reference for the Compensation Committee are available on the Company’s website, www.wpp.com/investors/corporate-governance, and will be on display at the AGM, as set out in the Notice of AGM. This Annual Report on Form 20-F does not incorporate by reference information on the Company’s website.

The Committee’s principal responsibilities under its terms of reference include:

• reviewing and approving the Company’s compensation strategy;

• determining appropriate remuneration for executive directors;

• approving the service agreements and severance arrangements for executive directors and other senior executives of the Company;

• maintaining appropriate procedures for evaluation of executive performance;

• overseeing succession planning and management development for senior executives in the Group who are not members of the Board;

• reviewing, approving and administering the Company’s executive long-term incentive plans, employee share schemes and other equity-related incentive plans;

• reviewing proposed special incentive awards to senior executives;

• monitoring prohibitions on personal loans to directors and officers;

• determining targets for performance-related pay schemes;

• advising on any major changes in employee benefit structures;

• overseeing the provisions for selecting, appointing and setting the terms of reference for any remuneration consultants to the Company;

• overseeing the preparation of and recommending to the Board the approval of the Annual Report of the Committee in compliance with the disclosure requirements of the Code of Best Practice and the Directors’ Remuneration Report Regulations 2002;

• overseeing the adequacy of disclosures throughout the year regarding director compensation, stock transactions and benefits;

• approving the policy for authorising claims for expenses from directors and senior executives; and

• ensuring that procedures are in place concerning compliance with the employee welfare provisions of the Company’s Code of Business Conduct and Ethics and the Company’s Policy Manual.

Advisors to the Compensation Committee

The Compensation Committee regularly consults with Group executives. The Committee invites certain individuals to attend meetings, including the Chief Executive Officer (who is not present when matters relating to his own compensation or contracts are discussed and decided), the Company Secretary, the Chief People Officer and the Worldwide Compensation & Benefits Director. The latter two individuals provide a perspective on information reviewed by the Committee and are a conduit for requests for information and analysis from the Company’s external advisors.

External advisors

The Committee retains Willis Towers Watson (WTW) to act as independent advisors. They provide advice to the Compensation Committee and work with management on matters related to our compensation policy and

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practices. They are a member of the Remuneration Consultants Group and have signed the code of conduct relating to the provision of advice in the UK. Considering this, and the level and nature of the service received, the Committee remains satisfied that the advice is objective and independent. WTW provides limited other services at a Group level and some of our operating companies engage them as advisors at a local level. In 2019, WTW received fees of £218,746 in relation to the provision of advice to the Committee. The Committee receives external legal advice, where required, to assist it in carrying out its duties.

Changes in Executive Directors

Paul Richardson will retire from the Company with effect from 1 May 2020. He will be succeeded by John Rogers who joined the Company on 27 January 2020 as Chief Financial Officer Designate.

Audit Committee

The Committee held nine meetings during 2019, which were attended by Deloitte LLP (the Company’s external auditors, “Deloitte”), the Company’s Chairman, the Senior Independent Director, the Group Finance Director, the Chief Executive Officer, the Chief Operating Officer, the Director of Internal Audit, the Group Chief Counsel, the Group Chief Accountant and the Company Secretary. Individual attendance by the Committee members during 2019 is set out in the table on page 47.

The Committee held separate private meetings with Deloitte, the Director of Internal Audit, the Group Chief Counsel, the Chief Executive Officer and the Group Finance Director. The Committee Chairman held pre-meetings with Deloitte and regular meetings with the Company’s Directors of Internal Audit, Tax and Treasury and the Group Chief Counsel. The Committee Chairman has an ongoing dialogue with the Group Finance Director, the Group Chief Accountant, the Director of Internal Audit and the Director of Tax and reports to the Board, as a separate agenda item, on the activities of the Committee at the following Board meeting.

Committee responsibilities and how they were discharged in 2019

The discussion below addresses the main matters covered by the Committee’s responsibilities are set out in its terms of reference. The Committee’s key responsibilities are as follows:

• monitoring the integrity of the Group’s financial statements and formal announcements relating to the Company’s financial performance, reviewing significant financial reporting judgements and disclosures.

• monitoring and reviewing the Group’s internal financial, operational and compliance controls and internal control system. Overseeing the Group’s compliance with Section 404 of SOX;

• reviewing and monitoring the activities and effectiveness of the Group’s internal audit function. Reviewing and approving the WPP Internal Audit charter;

• reviewing and monitoring the Company’s risk management framework. Assisting the Board in carrying out a robust assessment of emerging and principal risks. Overseeing the Group’s risk exposure and risk strategy;

• reviewing the effectiveness of the external audit process, reviewing and monitoring the independence and objectivity of Deloitte. Reviewing and approving Deloitte’s terms of engagement and remuneration;

• monitoring applicable accounting and legal reporting requirements, including all relevant regulations of the FCA, the SEC, the NYSE and the Jersey Financial Services Commission and the UK Corporate Governance Code;

• reviewing the Company’s systems and controls for ethical behaviour, the matters reported on the Group’s Right to Speak helpline and the investigations and actions undertaken by the Group in response.

• reviewing the Group Treasury policy, focusing on debtors, working capital and cash management;

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• reviewing reports on any material litigation or regulatory reviews involving Group companies;

• reviewing the Group’s acquisitions strategy, earn-out payment liabilities and integration processes; and

• reviewing the Group’s tax position and UK tax strategy.

Fair, balanced and understandable

A subcommittee of the Board including members of the Committee examined whether the Annual Report & Accounts for 2019 was fair, balanced and understandable and provided the information necessary for shareholders to assess the Group’s position, performance, business model and strategy. The subcommittee received an early final draft of the report for review and comment and verification notes and confirmation from the Disclosure Committee relating to the composition of the report. The Board subsequently considered the report as a whole and discussed the report’s tone, balance and language for compliance with these standards.

Financial reporting and significant financial judgements

Key accounting judgements made by management were reported to and examined by the Committee and discussed with management. The Committee considered the following significant financial reporting judgements in relation to the financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2019 and how these were addressed are set out below:

Area of Focus	Actions Taken/Conclusion
Kantar: IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations The judgements made in relation to the accounting and reporting implications of the Kantar disposal.	The Committee considered management’s ongoing assessment of the conditions that must be satisfied in order to conclude a disposal group is “held for sale”. The Committee monitored progress of the transaction during 2019 and management’s continued application of the guidance. The Committee was satisfied with management’s conclusion as to when the Kantar group classified as “held for sale”. The Committee reviewed management’s judgements in relation to the key accounting and disclosure impacts of the transaction.
Kantar: disposal accounting The calculations of the loss on disposal of the Kantar group.	The Committee reviewed the judgements made by management in accounting for the disposal of the Kantar group. The Committee considered and discussed the related accounting disclosures with management and concluded that these were appropriate.
IFRS 8 Operating Segments The review of the Group’s reported operating segments and Compliance with IFRS 8.	The Committee considered management’s proposed changes to the Group’s reported operating segments and challenged management’s approach and assessment of the criteria under IFRS 8 Operating Segments. The Committee received further comprehensive reports from management. The Committee was satisfied with management’s final recommendations and the outcome of the review.
IFRS 16 Leases The review of the Group’s implementation of IFRS 16.	The Committee received reports from management concerning the adoption of IFRS 16 from 1 January 2019 and the impact on the financial statements. The Committee reviewed the judgements made by management in the application of IFRS 16 and was satisfied that these were appropriate.
Goodwill impairments Judgements in relation to goodwill impairment testing.	The Committee challenged the appropriateness of the assumptions used by management in the goodwill impairment assessment model, with a particular focus on the discount rate and growth assumptions. Material weaknesses have been identified which management are remediating with oversight from the Committee. Management are changing the approach to determining inputs with respect to the discount rates used in

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Area of Focus	Actions Taken/Conclusion
	the impairment calculations and the determination of the appropriateness of the cash flow periods and associated discounting in the impairment calculation and are establishing a more comprehensive review process over such inputs, the discount rate methodology and the determination of the appropriateness of the cash flow periods and associated discounting in the impairment calculation. The identified material weaknesses have not resulted in a material misstatement in the year ended 31 December 2019 or in any prior years. See Item 15 for the discussion on material weaknesses.
Investments The valuation of non-controlled investments and unlisted associates.	The Committee examined management’s valuation, based on forecast, recent third-party investment, external transactions and/or other available information such as industry valuation multiples. The Committee agreed that the valuations were appropriate based on the information available to the Group.
Earnout liabilities The accuracy of forecasting the potential future earnout payments due under acquisition agreements.	The Committee considered management’s forecasts and was satisfied that liabilities for potential future earnout payments have been accounted for appropriately.
Working capital provisions The valuation of year-end provisions in respect of working capital.	The Committee received regular briefings on management’s approach in assessing the level of exposure across the Group. The Committee concluded that management’s approach was appropriate.
Remuneration Accounting for the judgemental elements of remuneration.	The Committee reviewed the assumptions applied by management in relation to judgemental elements of remuneration, including pensions, bonus accrual, severances and share based payments and agreed that these are reasonable.
Taxation The judgements made in respect of tax.	The Group Tax Director presented to the Committee in December 2019. The Committee considered management’s assumptions, in particular in relation to the level of central tax provisions, and believes that the level of central tax provisions is reasonable.
Going concern The going concern assessment and viability statement.	The Committee reviewed the range of scenarios modelled by management given the inherent uncertainty caused by Covid-19 and the cost mitigation actions available to management including the suspension of the share buybacks and 2019 final dividend. The Committee assessed management’s view that the likelihood of declines of over 35% of revenue less pass-through costs from April 2020 was remote. The Committee has considered and concurs with management’s going concern, viability and forecasting assumptions. See page 27 for the discussion on going concern.
Restructuring and transformation costs Recognition of restructuring and transformation costs.	The Committee reviewed management’s key accounting judgements and procedures relating to restructuring and transformation costs. The Committee was satisfied with the quantum of costs recognised in 2019 and the presentation of such costs in the financial statements.

External audit

Deloitte has been the Group’s auditors since 2002. The lead audit partner rotates every five years. The latest rotation took effect during 2019 when the Group’s lead audit partner was replaced, in respect of accounting periods commencing from 1 January 2019. The Committee oversaw the completion of the lead audit partner transition process during 2019. In 2019, the effectiveness of the external audit process was evaluated through the Committee’s ongoing review of the external

54

audit planning process and discussions with key members of the Group’s finance team. The Committee considered the Audit Quality Review’s 2018/19 Audit Quality Inspection Report on Deloitte and the actions taken by Deloitte to address the findings in that report. The 2019 evaluations concluded that there continued to be a good quality audit process and constructive challenge where necessary to ensure balanced reporting. The Committee held private meetings with Deloitte and the Committee Chairman met privately with Deloitte before each meeting. The Committee continues to be satisfied with the performance of Deloitte and confirms that Deloitte continues to be objective and independent. The Committee recommends the reappointment of Deloitte at the AGM on 10 June 2020.

The Committee considered the Group’s position on its audit services contract in the context of the regulations concerning the audit market. Although there is no immediate intention to tender the audit contract, the Company will re-tender at the latest by the 2022 year-end in compliance with the transitional arrangements for competitive tender that require mandatory rotation after the 2023 fiscal year-end.

The Company confirms that it has complied with the Competition and Markets Authority final order on mandatory tendering and Audit Committee responsibilities.

Internal audit

The annual internal audit plan, including the list of units for internal audit review, is approved by the Committee at the beginning of the financial year. Progress against the plan is monitored throughout the year and any significant changes to the plan require Committee approval. Significant issues identified within internal audit reports are considered in detail by the Committee along with the remediation plans to resolve those issues. The Committee also regularly considers the level of internal audit resource to ensure it is appropriate to provide the right level of assurance over the principal risks and controls throughout the Group. The Committee Chairman holds regular update meetings with the Director of Internal Audit, to ensure the internal audit function has adequate standing, is free from management restrictions and has direct access to the Committee if required.

Internal financial control

The Committee carried out an in-depth review of the Group’s internal financial control system, with a focus on monitoring, remediation and compliance with Section 404 of SOX. As disclosed in the Original Filing, a material weakness had been identified and management are changing the approach to determining inputs with respect to the discount rates used in impairment assessments and establishing a review process over inputs and the overall discount rate methodology. In connection with the restatement discussed in the explanatory note to this Amendment, we identified additional material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting, which management are remediating. See Part II, Item 15 of this Form 20-F/A for the discussion on material weaknesses.

Non-audit fees

The Committee has a policy regarding non-audit services that may be provided by Deloitte, which was most recently updated in April 2020. The policy prohibits certain categories of work in line with relevant guidance on independence, such as the FRC Ethical Standard and rules issued by the SEC. The prohibited categories of work include advice on remuneration and on tax services being provided by Deloitte and a general default to an alternative provider elsewhere subject to adherence to regulations. Other categories of work may be provided by Deloitte if appropriate and if pre-approved by the Committee, either as individual assignments or as aggregate amounts for specified categories of services. All fees are summarised periodically for the Committee to assess the aggregate value of non-audit fees against audit fees. The level of fees for 2019 is shown in note 3 of the consolidated financial statements.

Committee composition and evaluation

The Committee and its members were formally assessed by the Nomination and Governance Committee as part of the review of Committee composition in 2019 and as part of the Board evaluation process below for their technical

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suitability to be members and also for the Committee’s overall effectiveness. The Board has designated the Committee Chairman as the Committee’s financial expert for Sarbanes-Oxley Act (SOX) purposes and together with Tarek Farahat as having recent and relevant financial experience for the purposes of the UK Corporate Governance Code and competence in accounting or audit for the purposes of DTR 7.1. The members of the Committee are considered by the Board to be independent and (when considered as a whole) have competence relevant to the sectors in which the Company operates, and have financial experience as set out Item 6A.

Sandrine Dufour has been appointed as an additional member of the Committee with effect from 3 February 2020. Sandrine is currently Chief Financial Officer of Proximus and will become CFO of UCB on 1 July 2020. Sandrine has recent and relevant financial experience for the purposes of the UK Corporate Governance Code and competence in accounting or audit for the purposes of DTR 7.1.

Terms of reference

The Committee’s terms of reference are adopted by the Board and reviewed annually by the Committee, most recently on 19 March 2020. A copy of the Committee’s terms of reference is available on the Company’s website at www.wpp.com/investors/corporate-governance. This Annual Report on Form 20-F does not incorporate by reference information on the Company’s website.

Board Performance Evaluation

During 2018 the Board performance evaluation was externally facilitated by Dr Tracy Long of Boardroom Review Limited who has no other connection with the Company or individual directors.

The Board performance evaluation in 2019 was internally facilitated by Nicole Seligman, Senior Independent Director. The 2019 review comprised a questionnaire completed by each director which drew on the recommendations of Dr Long in 2018 and the issues dealt with by the Board and Committees throughout the year. The questionnaire was reviewed with Dr Long.

Outcomes

The Board has effective leadership in place, with strong support for and relationships between the Chairman, CEO, the Senior Independent Director and Committee Chairs. The Board has been going through a process of refreshment, focusing on succession for the CFO, and membership of the Committees including the formation of the new Sustainability Committee, and is very much engaged with the strategic process and transformation plan. There is continued focus on business integrity, culture, sustainability, cyber security, data privacy and the risk and control framework.

D. Employees

The assets of communications services businesses are primarily their employees, and the Company is highly dependent on the talent, creative abilities and technical skills of its personnel and the relationships its personnel have with clients. The Company believes that its operating companies have established reputations in the industry that attract talented personnel. However, the Company, like all communications services businesses, is vulnerable to adverse consequences from the loss of key employees due to the competition among these businesses for talented personnel. On 31 December 2019, the Group had operations in 112 countries and more than 3,000 offices among more than 150 companies. Excluding all employees of associated undertakings, the number of employees at the end of 2019 was 106,786 (2018: 134,281, 2017: 134,413). The average number of employees, including the Kantar disposal group, for the year ended 2019 was 132,823 compared to 133,903 and 134,428 in 2018 and 2017, respectively.

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Their geographical distribution was as follows:

	2019		2018		2017
North America		25,008		25,990		27,399
United Kingdom		14,192		14,331		14,197
Western Continental Europe		26,973		26,825		25,700
Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe		66,650		66,757		67,132
		132,823		133,903		134,428

Their reportable segment distribution was as follows:

	2019		2018		2017
Global Integrated Agencies		82,295		83,015		81,537
Data Investment Management		26,325		27,813		28,014
Public Relations		6,890		6,891		6,899
Specialist Agencies		17,313		16,184		17,978
		132,823		133,903		134,428

E. Share Ownership

Executive Directors’ interests

Executive Directors’ interests in the Company’s ordinary share capital are shown in the following table. Other than as disclosed in this table, no Executive Director had any interest in any contract of significance with the Group during the year. Each Executive Director has a technical interest as an employee and potential beneficiary in shares in the Company held under the Employee Share Ownership Plan Trusts (ESOPs). More specifically, the Executive Directors have potential interests in shares related to the outstanding awards under the EPSP and outstanding ESAs. As at 31 December 2019, the Company’s ESOPs (which are entirely independent of the Company and have waived their rights to receive dividends) held in total 9,219,837 shares in the Company (14,820,994 in 2018).

Director		Total beneficial interests		Shares without performance conditions (unvested)1,2		Shares with performance conditions (unvested)3,4		Total unvested shares
Mark Read	At 31 December 2019		196,789		193,388		967,728		1,161,116
	At 28 April 2020		251,643		155,071		901,818		1,056,889
Paul Richardson	At 31 December 2019		1,068,240		14,235		1,133,300		1,147,535
	At 28 April 2020		1,080,145		14,235		943,450		957,685

¹   For Mark Read shares due pursuant to the 2017 Performance Share and 2018 Executive Share awards, 2017 Leaders awards and 2018 Retention awards and for Paul Richardson, the 2018 Executive Share award. Full details of these awards can be found on page 44. Additional dividend shares will be due on vesting.

²  As noted in footnote 1 above, less 2017 Performance Share award, which vested on 10 March 2020 (full details can be found on page 44).

³  Maximum number of shares due on vesting pursuant to the outstanding EPSP awards, full details of which can be found on page 46. Additional dividend shares will be due on vesting.

⁴  As noted in footnote 3 above, less the maximum due under the 2015 EPSP award, which vested on 12 March 2020 (full details can be found on page 46).

Share ownership requirements

As detailed in the Directors’ Compensation Policy, the Executive Directors are required to achieve a minimum level of share ownership of WPP shares. The CEO and Group Finance Director are required to hold shares to the value of 600% and 300% of base salary respectively.

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As at 31 December 2019, the Chief Executive Officer held shares to the value of 215% of his base salary. He has seven years from the date appointed to the CEO role in which to reach required level. At the same date the Paul Richardson, significantly exceeded his requirement and held shares to the value of 1,356% of his base salary. He will be required to maintain his share ownership requirement of 300% of base salary in the year following his retirement and 150% of base salary for the second year.

Non-Executive Directors’ interests

Non-Executive Directors’ interests in the Company’s ordinary share capital are shown in the following table. Except as disclosed in this table, no Non-Executive Director had any interest in any contract of significance with the Group during the year.

Non-Executive Director	Total interests at 31 December 2019		Total interests at 28 April 2020
Roberto Quarta		87,500		87,500
Jacques Aigrain		34,000		34,000
Tarek Farahat		3,775		3,775
Sir John Hood		3,000		3,000
Ruigang Li1		4,000		N/A
Daniela Riccardi		4,100		4,100
Cindy Rose2		8,000		8,000
Nicole Seligman		8,750		8,750
Sally Susman		5,000		5,000
Sol Trujillo		10,000		10,000
Keith Weed3		2,161		2,161
Jasmine Whitbread4		—		3,330

¹   Ruigang Li retired from the Board on 12 June 2019. The information disclosed reflects his total interests at this date.

²  Cindy Rose was appointed to the Board on 1 April 2019.

³  Keith Weed was appointed to the Board on 1 November 2019.

⁴  Jasmine Whitbread was appointed to the Board on 1 September 2019.

ITEM 7. MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

A. Major Shareholders

As of the dates shown below, the Company is aware of the following interests of 3% or more in the issued ordinary share capital:

			24 April 2020				23 April 2019				24 April 2018
MFS	3.96	%		48,563,373	6.02	%		75,933,531	8.03	%		101,727,776
Harris Associates LP	5.88	%		72,109,256	5.67	%		71,556,873	7.35	%		93,117,523
BlackRock Inc.	7.60	%		93,169,630	5.38	%		67,889,344	5.49	%		69,509,494

The disclosed interests refer to the respective combined holdings of those entities and to interests associated with them. The Company has not been notified of any other holdings of ordinary share capital of 3% or more. None of these shareholders have voting rights that are different from those of the holders of the Company’s ordinary shares generally. As far as WPP is aware, it is neither directly nor indirectly owned or controlled by one or more corporations or by any government, or by any other natural or legal persons severally or jointly.

The number of outstanding ordinary shares at 31 December 2019 was 1,328,167,813 which included at such date the underlying ordinary shares represented by 15,699,064 ADSs. 222 share owners of record of WPP ordinary shares were US residents at 31 December 2019.

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The geographic distribution of our share ownership as at 31 December 2019 is presented below:

United Kingdom	28.1%
United States	35.6%
Rest of world	36.3%
Total	100.0%

B. Related Party Transactions

From time to time the Group enters into transactions with its associate undertakings. These transactions were not material for any of the years presented.

The Group has continuing transactions with Kantar, including sales, purchases, the provision of IT services, subleases and property related items. None of these were material in the period since 5 December 2019 when Kantar became a related party as an associate. See note 31 to the consolidated financial statements for more details of related party transactions for the year ended 31 December 2019.

See Item 6C for a discussion of the service contracts between the Company and the Executive Directors.

C. Interests of Experts and Counsel

Not applicable.

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

A. Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information

See Item 18.

Outstanding legal proceedings

The Company has claims against others and there are claims against the Company in a variety of matters arising from the conduct of its business. In the opinion of the management of the Company, the ultimate liability, if any, that is likely to result from these matters would not have a material impact on the Company’s financial position, or on the results of its operations.

Dividend distribution policy

See Item 10B.

ADS holders are eligible for all stock dividends or other entitlements accruing on the underlying WPP plc shares and receive all cash dividends in US dollars. These are normally paid twice a year. Dividend cheques are mailed directly to the ADS holder on the payment date if ADSs are registered with WPP’s U.S. Depositary, Citibank N.A. Dividends on ADSs that are registered with brokers are sent to the brokers, who forward them to ADS holders.

Dollar amounts paid to ADS holders depend on the sterling/dollar exchange rate at the time of payment.

B. Significant Changes

See note 25 to the consolidated financial statements in Item 18.

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ITEM 9. THE OFFER AND LISTING

A. Offer and Listing Details

The Company has ordinary shares (trading symbol: WPP) listed on the London Stock Exchange and ADSs for such ordinary shares (trading symbol: WPP) listed on the New York Stock Exchange.

The Depositary held 78,495,320 ordinary shares as at 31 December 2019, approximately 5.91% of the outstanding ordinary shares, represented by 15,699,064 outstanding ADSs.

B. Plan of Distribution

Not applicable.

C. Markets

See the discussion in Item 9A.

D. Selling Shareholders

Not applicable.

E. Dilution

Not applicable.

F. Expenses of the Issue

Not applicable.

ITEM 10. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

A. Share Capital

Not applicable.

B. Memorandum and Articles of Association

See Exhibit 2.15 to this Annual Report on Form 20-F for information called for by Item 10.B.

C. Material Contracts

The following is a summary of each contract (not being a contract entered into in the ordinary course of business) that has been entered into by any member of the WPP Group: (a) within the two years immediately preceding the date of this Form 20-F which are, or may be, material to the WPP Group; or (b) at any time which contain obligations or entitlements which is, or may be, material to the WPP Group as at the date of this Form 20-F:

(i) On 7 September 2012, WPP Finance 2010 issued US$500,000,000 3.625% guaranteed senior notes due September 2022 and $300,000,000 5.125% guaranteed senior notes due September 2042. These notes were issued under the Indenture dated as at 2 November 2011, described above, as supplemented by the Second Supplemental Indenture and the Third Supplemental Indenture, respectively, each dated as at 7 September 2012, among WPP Finance 2010 as issuer, WPP 2012 Limited (formerly known as WPP plc), WPP Air 1, WPP 2008 Limited and WPP 2005 Limited as guarantors, Wilmington Trust, National Association as trustee, Citibank, N.A., as security registrar and Principal Paying Agent and

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Citibank, N.A., London Branch as Paying Agent. The indenture contains events of default provisions (including a cross-default provision). It also contains a restriction on the Issuer or any of the Guarantors referred to above consolidating or merging with any other person and conveying, transferring or leasing all or substantially all of their properties and assets to any person except where the entity resulting from such consolidation or merger or to whom such properties and assets are transferred becomes a primary obligor of the notes and gives certain certificates and indemnities. The covenants of the Indenture also contain a negative pledge and a limitation on the sale and leaseback of any assets by the Guarantors referred to above and their principal subsidiaries. The Indenture allows for defeasance of these covenants subject to certain conditions. The holders of the notes have the right to require the Issuer to repurchase the notes at a price equal to 101% of the principal amount of the notes in the event that there is a Change of Control of WPP plc and the notes lose their investment grade rating. The Indenture also contains a joint and several indemnity from the Issuer and the Guarantors referred to above in favour of the Trustee. During 2018 WPP Finance 2010 repurchased and cancelled $28,422,000 5.125% guaranteed senior notes due September 2042. In May 2019, WPP Finance 2010 repurchased and cancelled $178,744,000 5.125% guaranteed senior notes due September 2042;

(ii) On 2 January 2013, WPP plc entered into a deposit agreement with Citibank, N.A., as US Depositary, and the holders and beneficial owners of ADSs that sets out the terms on which the US Depositary has agreed to act as depositary with respect to WPP ADSs. The deposit agreement contains, amongst other things, customary provisions pertaining to the form of ADRs, the deposit and withdrawal of ordinary shares, distributions to holders of ADSs, voting of ordinary shares underlying ADSs, obligations of the US Depositary and WPP plc, charges of the US Depositary, and compliance with U.S. securities laws;

(iii) On 12 November 2013, WPP Finance 2010 issued US$500,000,000 5.625% guaranteed senior notes due November 2043. These notes were issued under the Indenture dated as at 12 November 2013, as supplemented by the Supplemental Indenture dated as at 12 November 2013, among WPP Finance 2010 as issuer, WPP plc, WPP Jubilee Limited, and WPP 2005 Limited as guarantors, Wilmington Trust, National Association as trustee, Citibank, N.A., as security registrar and Principal Paying Agent and Citibank, N.A., London Branch as Paying Agent. The indenture contains events of default provisions (including a cross-default provision). It also contains a restriction on the Issuer or any of the Guarantors referred to above consolidating or merging with any other person and conveying, transferring or leasing all or substantially all of their properties and assets to any person except where the entity resulting from such consolidation or merger or to whom such properties and assets are transferred becomes a primary obligor of the notes and gives certain certificates and indemnities. The covenants of the Indenture also contain a negative pledge and a limitation on the sale and leaseback of any assets by the Guarantors referred to above and their principal subsidiaries. The Indenture allows for defeasance of these covenants subject to certain conditions. The holders of the notes have the right to require the Issuer to repurchase the notes at a price equal to 101% of the principal amount of the notes in the event that there is a Change of Control of WPP plc and the notes lose their investment grade rating. The Indenture also contains a joint and several indemnity from the Issuer and the Guarantors referred to above in favour of the Trustee. During 2018 WPP Finance 2010 repurchased and cancelled $49,690,000 5.625% guaranteed senior notes due November 2043. In May 2019, WPP Finance 2010 repurchased and cancelled $230,465,000 5.625% guaranteed senior notes due November 2043;

(iv) On 20 November 2013, WPP Finance 2013 issued EUR 750,000,000 3.000% guaranteed senior bonds due November 2023. The bonds are guaranteed by WPP plc, WPP 2005 Limited, and WPP Jubilee Limited, and were constituted by a Trust Deed dated 11 November 2013 between WPP Finance 2013, the guarantors, and Citicorp Trustee Company Limited. The administration of payments to bondholders is provided for in an Agency Agreement dated 11 December 2013 between WPP Finance 2013, the guarantors, and Citibank, N.A., London Branch. The bonds are listed on the Global Exchange Market of the Irish Stock Exchange and the terms and conditions contain a redemption provision at the

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option of the bondholders on a Change of Control, a negative pledge provision and the events of default provisions in the terms and conditions contain a cross-default provision;

(v) On 19 September 2014, WPP Finance 2010 issued US$750,000,000 3.750% guaranteed senior notes due September 2024. These notes were issued under the Indenture dated as at 19 September 2014, as supplemented by the Supplemental Indenture dated as at 19 September 2014, among WPP Finance 2010 as issuer, WPP plc, WPP Jubilee Limited, and WPP 2005 Limited as guarantors, Wilmington Trust, National Association as trustee, Citibank, N.A., as security registrar and Principal Paying Agent and Citibank, N.A., London Branch as Paying Agent. Aside from the coupon and repayment date, the terms and conditions of these notes are the same as those for the $500,000,000 5.625% notes due November 2043 described above;

(vi) On 22 September 2014, WPP Finance S.A. issued EUR 750,000,000 2.250% guaranteed senior bonds due September 2026. The bonds are guaranteed by WPP plc, WPP 2005 Limited, and WPP Jubilee Limited, and were constituted by a Trust Deed dated 11 November 2013 between WPP Finance S.A., the guarantors, and Citicorp Trustee Company Limited. The administration of payments to bondholders is provided for in an Agency Agreement dated 11 November 2013 between WPP Finance S.A., the guarantors, and Citibank, N.A., London Branch. The bonds are listed on the Global Exchange Market of the Irish Stock Exchange and the terms and conditions contain a redemption provision at the option of the bondholders on a Change of Control, a negative pledge provision and the events of default provisions in the terms and conditions contain a cross-default provision;

(vii) On 23 March 2015, WPP Finance Deutschland GmbH issued EUR 600,000,000 1.625% guaranteed senior bonds due March 2030. The bonds are guaranteed by WPP plc, WPP 2005 Limited, and WPP Jubilee Limited, and were constituted by a Trust Deed dated 11 November 2013 as supplemented by a First Supplemental Trust Deed dated 14 November 2014 between, inter alia, WPP Finance Deutschland GmbH, the guarantors, and Citicorp Trustee Company Limited. The administration of payments to bondholders is provided for in an Agency Agreement dated 11 November 2013 between, inter alia, WPP Finance Deutschland GmbH, the guarantors and Citibank, N.A., London Branch. The bonds are listed on the Global Exchange Market of the Irish Stock Exchange and the terms and conditions contain a redemption provision at the option of the bondholders on a Change of Control, a negative pledge provision and the events of default provisions in the terms and conditions contain a cross-default provision;

(viii) On 14 September 2016, WPP Finance 2013 issued GBP 400,000,000 2.875% fixed rate guaranteed senior bonds due 14 September 2046 under the EUR 4,000,000,000 Euro Medium Term Note Programme. The bonds are guaranteed by WPP plc, WPP 2005 Limited and WPP Jubilee Limited, and are constituted by a Trust Deed dated 14 November 2014 between, inter alia, WPP Finance 2013, the guarantors, and Citicorp Trustee Company Limited. The administration of payments to bondholders is provided for in an Agency Agreement dated 11 November 2013 between, inter alia, WPP Finance 2013, the guarantors and Citibank, N.A., London Branch. The bonds are admitted to the Official List of the Irish Stock Exchange and to trading on the Global Exchange Market. The terms and conditions of the bonds contain a redemption provision at the option of the bondholders on a Change of Control, a negative pledge provision and a cross-default event of default provision;

(ix) On 18 May 2017, WPP Finance 2013 issued EUR 250,000,000 guaranteed senior bonds due May 2020 which pay a coupon of 3 month EURIBOR + 0.32%. The bonds are guaranteed by WPP plc, WPP 2005 Limited, and WPP Jubilee Limited, and were constituted by a Trust Deed dated 8 November 2016 between, inter alia, WPP Finance 2013, the guarantors, and Citicorp Trustee Company Limited. The administration of payments to bondholders is provided for in an Agency Agreement dated 8 November 2016 between, inter alia, WPP Finance 2013, the guarantors and Citibank, N.A., London Branch. The bonds are listed on the Global Exchange Market of the Irish Stock Exchange and the terms and conditions contain a redemption provision at the option of the bondholders on a Change of Control, a negative pledge provision and the events of default provisions in the terms and conditions contain a cross-default provision;

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(x) On 20 March 2018, WPP Finance 2013 issued EUR 250,000,000 guaranteed senior bonds due March 2022 which pay a coupon of 3 month EURIBOR + 0.45%. The bonds are guaranteed by WPP plc, WPP 2005 Limited, and WPP Jubilee Limited, and were constituted by a Trust Deed dated 8 November 2016 between, inter alia, WPP Finance 2013, the guarantors, and Citicorp Trustee Company Limited. The administration of payments to bondholders is provided for in an Agency Agreement dated 8 November 2016 between, inter alia, WPP Finance 2013, the guarantors and Citibank, N.A., London Branch. The bonds are listed on the Global Exchange Market of the Irish Stock Exchange and the terms and conditions contain a redemption provision at the option of the bondholders on a Change of Control, a negative pledge provision and the events of default provisions in the terms and conditions contain a cross-default provision;

(xi) On 20 March 2018, WPP Finance 2016 issued EUR 500,000,000 1.375% guaranteed senior bonds due March 2025. The bonds are guaranteed by WPP plc, WPP 2005 Limited, and WPP Jubilee Limited, and were constituted by a Trust Deed dated 8 November 2016 between, inter alia, WPP Finance 2013, the guarantors, and Citicorp Trustee Company Limited. The administration of payments to bondholders is provided for in an Agency Agreement dated 8 November 2016 between, inter alia, WPP Finance 2013, the guarantors and Citibank, N.A., London Branch. The bonds are listed on the Global Exchange Market of the Irish Stock Exchange and the terms and conditions contain a redemption provision at the option of the bondholders on a Change of Control, a negative pledge provision and the events of default provisions in the terms and conditions contain a cross-default provision;

(xii) On 26 June 2018, WPP AUNZ Limited entered into an agreement for a 1 year revolving credit facility for AUD$150 million and a 3 year revolving credit facility for AUD$370 million with a syndicate of banks and Westpac Banking Corporation acting as Agent due 29 June 2019 and 29 June 2021, respectively. On 1 May 2019, WPP AUNZ Limited entered into an agreement to extend the maturity date of the 1 year revolving credit facility for AUD$150 million until 29 June 2020. On 12 December 2019 AUD$100 million of the three year revolving credit facility for AUD$370 million was cancelled reducing the facility size to AUD$270 million. Joint and several guarantees are provided by subsidiaries of WPP AUNZ that represent at least 75% of EBITDA and at least 75% of total tangible assets. These facilities are available for drawing by way of cash advances in Australian Dollars or New Zealand Dollars on a revolving basis. The rate of margin for the AUD$150 million facility is 1.25%. The rate of margin for the AUD$270 million facility is determined by the ratio of Net Debt to EBITDA. If the ratio is greater than 2.5 the rate of margin for the facility shall be 1.75%. If the ratio is greater than 2.0 and less than or equal to 2.5 the rate of margin for the facility shall be 1.45%. If the ratio is greater than 1.5 and less than or equal to 2.0 the rate of margin for the facility shall be 1.30%. If the ratio is greater than 1.0 and less than or equal to 1.5 the rate of margin for the facility shall be 1.15%. If the ratio is less than or equal to 1.0 the rate of margin for the facility shall be 1.00%. The commitment fee payable on undrawn commitments is equal to 45% of the then applicable margin. The facility contains customary representations, covenants and events of default; and

(xiii) On 15 March 2019, WPP CP LLC, WPP Finance Co. Limited and WPP CP Finance plc (as borrowers), guaranteed by WPP plc, WPP 2005 Limited and WPP Jubilee Limited entered into an agreement for a five-year multi-currency revolving credit facility (with a US Dollar swingline option) for US$2.5 billion with a syndicate of banks and Citibank International plc as facility agent due March 2024. On 14 February 2020, the lending banks approved extending the maturity for a further year to 15 March 2025. The facility is available for drawing by way of multi-currency cash advances on a revolving basis, with an option to draw US Dollar swingline advances up to a sub-limit of US$1.2 billion. The rate of margin for the facility is, if the long-term unsecured and non-credit enhanced debt rating of WPP published by Moody’s and Standard & Poor’s (the Credit Rating) is A-/A3 or higher, 0.25% per annum. If the Credit Rating is BBB+ or Baa1, the rate of margin for the facility is 0.30% per annum. If the Credit Rating is BBB or Baa2, the rate of margin for the facility is 0.40% per annum. If the Credit Rating is BBB- or Baa3, the rate of margin for the facility is 0.50% per

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annum. If the Credit Rating is BB+ or Ba1 or lower, the rate of margin for the facility is 0.80% per annum. If Moody’s and Standard & Poor’s assign different Credit Ratings, the margin shall be the average of the margins determined by each of Moody’s and Standard & Poor’s. The commitment fee payable on undrawn commitments is equal to 35% of the then applicable margin. A utilisation fee of 0.075% per annum is payable on outstandings on any day on which the amount of outstandings exceeds 0% of the total facility commitments but is less than or equal to 33% of the total facility commitments. A utilisation fee of 0.15% per annum is payable on outstandings on any day on which the amount of outstandings exceeds 33% of the total facility commitments but is less than or equal to 66% of the total facility commitments. A utilisation fee of 0.30% per annum is payable on outstandings on any day on which the amount of outstandings exceeds 66% of the total facility commitments. The facility agreement contains customary representations, covenants and events of default. The interest rate for swingline advances is the higher of the US prime commercial lending rate and 0.50% per annum above the federal funds rate.

(xiv) On 12 July 2019 WPP entered into an agreement to sell 60% of Kantar, its global data, research, consulting and analytics business, to Bain Capital (the “Transaction”). The Transaction valued 100% of Kantar at c.$4.0 billion, equivalent to a calendar 2018 EV/EBITDA multiple of 8.2x based on Kantar’s headline EBITDA (excluding WPP overhead) of £386 million. The equity value after expected completion adjustments was c.$3.7 billion (c.£3.0 billion). The consideration is payable in cash. WPP may also receive additional consideration over the next three years in respect of certain contingent liabilities, in the event that such liabilities are lower than estimated. Additionally, WPP may receive certain other payments during the life of its partnership with Bain Capital. The amounts of these payments are dependent on future events and outcomes which are too uncertain to allow meaningful estimation today. Under no circumstances can such contingent liabilities, events and outcomes lead to any reduction or repayment of the consideration to be received by WPP on completion. On 5 December 2019, WPP completed the Transaction, with respect to approximately 90% of the Kantar business, and proportionate transaction proceeds were received at that time. As part of the Transaction, WPP entered into transitional services agreements which govern the provision of IT services and other operational services between WPP and Kantar for a transitional period after First Completion. A shareholders’ agreement is also in place to govern the relationship between WPP and Bain Capital, and ensures consistent governance rights for the parties. The boards of the Kantar joint venture companies formed by WPP and Bain Capital have up to six Bain Capital nominated directors and up to two WPP nominated directors. In certain circumstances, in the event of a disposal by Bain Capital of a majority of its interest in Kantar to a third party, it will have the right to require WPP also to transfer all of its securities in Kantar to that third party at the same price.

D. Exchange Controls

There are currently no Jersey foreign exchange control restrictions on remittances of dividends on the ordinary shares or on the conduct of the Registrant’s operations.

E. Taxation

The taxation discussion set forth below is intended only as a descriptive summary and does not purport to be a complete technical analysis or listing of all potential tax effects relevant to a decision to purchase, hold or in any way transfer ordinary shares or ADSs. Each investor should seek advice based on their individual particular circumstances from an independent tax adviser.

The following summary of the Jersey (UK in relation to dividend distributions) and the United States tax consequences is not exhaustive of all possible tax considerations and should not be considered legal or tax advice. In addition, this summary does not represent a detailed description of the tax consequences applicable to persons subject to special treatment under Jersey and United States tax laws. Prospective purchasers of ADSs are

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advised to satisfy themselves as to the overall tax consequences of their ownership of ADSs and the ordinary shares represented thereby by consulting their own tax advisors. In addition, this summary only addresses holders that hold ordinary shares or ADSs as capital assets, and it does not address the taxation of a United States shareholder (either corporate or individual) where that shareholder controls, or is deemed to control, 10% or more of the voting stock of the Company.

References in this discussion to WPP Shares include references to WPP ADSs and corresponding references to WPP Share Owners (or holders of WPP ADSs) include references to holders of WPP ADSs, unless indicated otherwise.

United Kingdom, Jersey and the United States taxation

United Kingdom taxation

Tax on dividends

The Company will not be required to withhold UK tax at source from dividend payments it makes.

A WPP Share Owner resident outside the UK may be subject to taxation on dividend income under local law. A WPP Share Owner who is not solely resident in the UK for tax purposes should consult their own tax advisers concerning their tax liabilities (in the UK and any other country) on dividends received from WPP. From 6 April 2016, the dividend tax credit previously available to UK tax resident individuals has been replaced by a Dividend Allowance.

Taxation of disposals

An individual WPP Share Owner who has ceased to be resident or ordinarily resident for tax purposes in the UK for a period of less than five tax years and who disposes of all or part of his WPP Shares during that period may be liable to capital gains tax in respect of any chargeable gain arising from such a disposal on his return to the UK, subject to any available exemptions or reliefs.

Stamp duty and stamp duty reserve tax (SDRT)

No UK stamp duty or SDRT will be payable on the issue of WPP Shares. UK stamp duty should generally not need to be paid on a transfer of the WPP Shares. No UK SDRT will be payable in respect of any agreement to transfer WPP Shares unless they are registered in a register kept in the UK by or on behalf of WPP. It is not intended that such a register will be kept in the UK.

The statements in this paragraph summarise the current position on stamp duty and SDRT and are intended as a general guide only. Special rules apply to agreements made by, amongst others, intermediaries and certain categories of person may be liable to stamp duty or SDRT at higher rates.

Jersey taxation

General

The following summary of the anticipated tax treatment in Jersey of WPP and WPP Share Owners and holders of WPP ADSs (other than residents of Jersey) is based on Jersey taxation law as it is understood to apply at the date of this Form 20-F. It does not constitute legal or tax advice. WPP Share Owners or holders of WPP ADSs should consult their professional advisers on the implications of acquiring, buying, holding, selling or otherwise disposing of WPP Shares or WPP ADSs under the laws of the jurisdictions in which they may be liable to taxation. WPP Share Owners or holders of WPP ADSs should be aware that tax rules and practice and their interpretation may change.

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Income Tax

(a) WPP

Under the Jersey Income Tax Law, WPP will be regarded as either:

(i) not resident in Jersey under Article 123(1) of the Jersey Income Tax Law provided that (and for so long as) it satisfies the conditions set out in that provision, in which case WPP will not (except as noted below) be liable to Jersey income tax; or

(ii) resident in Jersey and will fall under Article 123C of the Jersey Income Tax Law, in which case WPP (being neither a financial services company nor a specified utility company under the Jersey Income Tax Law at the date hereof) will (except as noted below) be subject to Jersey income tax at a rate of 0 percent.

WPP is tax resident in the United Kingdom and therefore should not be regarded as resident in Jersey.

(b) Holders of WPP Shares

WPP will be entitled to pay dividends to holders of WPP Shares without any withholding or deduction for or on account of Jersey tax. Holders of WPP Shares (other than residents of Jersey) will not be subject to any tax in Jersey in respect of the holding, sale or other disposition of such WPP Shares.

(c) Holders of WPP ADSs

Under Jersey law and the WPP Articles, WPP is only permitted to pay a dividend to a person who is recorded in its register of members as the holder of a WPP Share. The US Depositary will be recorded in WPP’s register of members as the holder of each WPP Share represented by a WPP ADS. Accordingly, WPP will pay all dividends in respect of each WPP Share represented by a WPP ADS to the US Depositary (as the registered holder of each such WPP Share) rather than to the holder of the ADS.

The US Depositary will not be subject to any tax in Jersey in respect of the holding, sale or other disposition of the WPP Shares held by it. In addition, holders of the WPP ADSs (other than residents of Jersey) should not be subject to any tax in Jersey in respect of the holding, sale or other disposition of such WPP ADSs.

Goods and services tax

WPP is an “international services entity” for the purposes of the Goods and Services Tax (Jersey) Law 2007 (the “GST Law”). Consequently, WPP is not required to:

(a) register as a taxable person pursuant to the GST Law;

(b) charge goods and services tax in Jersey in respect of any supply made by it; or

(c) subject to limited exceptions that are not expected to apply to WPP, pay goods and services tax in Jersey in respect of any supply made to it.

Stamp duty

No stamp duty is payable in Jersey on the issue or inter vivos transfer of WPP Shares or WPP ADSs.

Upon the death of a WPP Share Owner, a grant of probate or letters of administration will be required to transfer the WPP Shares of the deceased person. However, WPP may (at its discretion) dispense with this requirement where: (a) the deceased person was domiciled outside of Jersey at the time of death; and (b) the value of the deceased’s movable estate in Jersey (including any WPP Shares) does not exceed £10,000.

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Upon the death of a WPP Share Owner, where the deceased person was domiciled outside of Jersey at the time of death, Jersey stamp duty will be payable on the registration in Jersey of a grant of probate or letters of administration, which will be required in order to transfer or otherwise deal with the deceased person’s personal estate situated in Jersey (including any WPP Shares) if the net value of such personal estate exceeds £10,000.

The rate of stamp duty payable is:

(i) (where the net value of the deceased person’s relevant personal estate is more than £10,000 but does not exceed £100,000) 0.50 percent of the net value of the deceased person’s relevant personal estate; or

(ii) (where the net value of the deceased person’s relevant personal estate exceeds £100,000) £500 for the first £100,000 plus 0.75 percent of the net value of the deceased person’s relevant personal estate which exceeds £100,000.

In addition, application and other fees may be payable.

US federal income taxation

Introduction

The following is a summary of certain material US federal income tax consequences of the ownership and disposition of WPP Shares or WPP ADSs by a US Holder (as defined below). This summary deals only with initial acquirers of WPP Shares or WPP ADSs that are US Holders and that will hold the WPP Shares or WPP ADSs as capital assets. The discussion does not cover all aspects of US federal income taxation that may be relevant to, or the actual tax effect that any of the matters described herein will have on, the acquisition, ownership or disposition of WPP Shares or WPP ADSs by particular investors, and does not address state, local, foreign or other tax laws. In particular, this summary does not address all of the tax considerations that may be relevant to investors subject to special treatment under the US federal income tax laws (such as financial institutions, insurance companies, investors liable for the alternative minimum tax, investors that own (directly or indirectly) 10% or more of the voting stock of WPP, investors that hold WPP Shares or WPP ADSs through a permanent establishment, individual retirement accounts and other tax-deferred accounts, tax-exempt organisations, dealers in securities or currencies, traders that elect to mark to market, investors that will hold the WPP Shares or WPP ADSs as part of straddles, hedging transactions or conversion transactions for US federal income tax purposes, investors whose functional currency is not the US dollar or persons who received their WPP Shares or WPP ADSs in connection with the performance of services or on exercise of options received as compensation in connection with the performance of services).

As used herein, the term “US Holder” means a beneficial owner of WPP Shares or WPP ADSs that is, for US federal income tax purposes: (i) a citizen or individual resident of the United States; (ii) a corporation, or other entity treated as a corporation for US federal tax purposes, created or organised in or under the laws of the United States or any State thereof; (iii) an estate the income of which is subject to US federal income tax without regard to its source; or (iv) a trust if a court within the United States is able to exercise primary supervision over the administration of the trust and one or more US persons have the authority to control all substantial decisions of the trust, or the trust has elected to be treated as a domestic trust for US federal income tax purposes.

This discussion does not address any tax consequences applicable to holders of equity interests in a holder of WPP Shares or WPP ADSs. The US federal income tax treatment of a partner in a partnership that holds WPP Shares or WPP ADSs will depend on the status of the partner and the activities of the partnership. Holders of WPP Shares or WPP ADSs that are partnerships should consult their tax advisers concerning the US federal income tax consequences to their partners of the acquisition, ownership and disposition of WPP Shares or WPP ADSs.

WPP does not expect to become a passive foreign investment company (a “PFIC”) for US federal income tax purposes and this summary assumes the correctness of this position. WPP’s possible status as a PFIC must be

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determined annually and therefore may be subject to change. If WPP were to be a PFIC in any year, materially adverse consequences could result for US Holders.

The summary is based on the US federal income tax laws, including the US Internal Revenue Code of 1986 as amended, its legislative history, existing and proposed regulations thereunder, published rulings and court decisions, all as currently in effect, and all of which are subject to change, perhaps with retroactive effect.

The summary of US federal income tax consequences set out below is for general information only. US Holders are urged to consult with their own tax advisers as to the particular tax consequences to them of owning the WPP Shares or WPP ADSs, including the applicability and effect of state, local, foreign and other tax laws and possible changes in tax law.

Classification of the WPP ADSs

US Holders of WPP ADSs should be treated for US federal income tax purposes as owners of the WPP Shares represented by the WPP ADSs. Accordingly, the US federal income tax consequences discussed below apply equally to US Holders of WPP ADSs.

Tax on dividends

Distributions paid by WPP out of current or accumulated earnings and profits (as determined for US federal income tax purposes) will generally be taxable to a US Holder as foreign source dividend income, and will not be eligible for the dividends received deduction generally allowed to US corporations. A US Holder of WPP ADSs generally will include dividends in gross income in the taxable year in which such holder actually or constructively receives the dividend. US Holders that surrender their WPP ADSs in exchange for the underlying WPP Shares should consult their tax advisers regarding the proper timing for including dividends in gross income.

Distributions in excess of current and accumulated earnings and profits will be treated as a non-taxable return of capital to the extent of the US Holder’s basis in the WPP Shares or WPP ADSs and thereafter as capital gains. However, WPP will not maintain calculations of its earnings and profits in accordance with US federal income tax accounting principles. US Holders should, therefore, assume that any distribution by WPP with respect to the WPP Shares or WPP ADSs will constitute ordinary dividend income. US Holders should consult their tax advisers with respect to the appropriate US federal income tax treatment of any distribution received from WPP.

Under current federal income tax law, dividends paid by a foreign corporation to a non-corporate US Holder as “qualified dividend income” are taxable at the special reduced rate normally applicable to capital gains provided the foreign corporation qualifies for the benefits of the income tax treaty between the United States and the corporation’s country of residence. In such case, the non-corporate US Holder is eligible for the reduced rate only if the US Holder has held the shares or ADSs for more than 60 days during the 121 day-period beginning 60 days before the ex-dividend date. WPP believes it will qualify for the benefits of the income tax treaty between the United States and the United Kingdom (the “Treaty”).

US Holders of WPP Shares or WPP ADSs who receive distributions from WPP will need to consult their own tax advisors regarding the continued applicability of this special reduced rate to such distributions.

Dividends paid in pounds sterling will be included in income in a US dollar amount calculated by reference to the exchange rate in effect on the day the dividends are received by the US Holder in the case of WPP Shares or the US Depositary (in case of WPP ADSs), regardless of whether the pounds sterling are converted into US dollars at that time. If dividends received in pounds sterling are converted into US dollars on the day they are received, the US Holder generally will not be required to recognise a foreign currency gain or loss in respect of the dividend income. Generally, a gain or loss realised on a subsequent conversion of pounds sterling to US dollars or other disposition will be treated as US source ordinary income or loss.

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Sale or other disposition

Upon a sale or other disposition of WPP Shares or WPP ADSs (other than an exchange of WPP ADSs for WPP Shares), a US Holder generally will recognise a capital gain or loss equal to the difference, if any, between the amount realised on the sale or other disposition and the US Holder’s adjusted tax basis in the WPP Shares or WPP ADSs. This capital gain or loss will generally be US source and will be a long-term capital gain or loss if the US Holder’s holding period in the WPP Shares or WPP ADSs exceeds one year. However, regardless of a US Holder’s actual holding period, any loss may be a long-term capital loss if the US Holder receives a dividend that exceeds 10% of the US Holder’s tax basis in its WPP Shares or WPP ADSs and to the extent such dividend qualifies for the reduced rate described above under the section entitled “Tax on Dividends”. Deductibility of capital losses is subject to limitations.

A US Holder’s tax basis in a WPP Share or a WPP ADS will generally be its US dollar cost. The US dollar cost of a WPP Share or a WPP ADS purchased with foreign currency will generally be the US dollar value of the purchase price on the date of purchase or, in the case of WPP Shares or WPP ADSs traded on an established securities market, as defined in the applicable Treasury Regulations, that are purchased by a cash basis US Holder (or an accrual basis US Holder that so elects), on the settlement date for the purchase. Such an election by an accrual basis US Holder must be applied consistently from year to year and cannot be revoked without the consent of the Internal Revenue Service (the “IRS”).

The surrender of WPP ADSs in exchange for WPP Shares (or vice versa) should not be a taxable event for US federal income tax purposes and US Holders should not recognise any gain or loss upon such a surrender. A US Holder’s tax basis in the withdrawn WPP Shares will be the same as the US Holder’s tax basis in the WPP ADSs surrendered, and the holding period of the WPP Shares will include the holding period of the WPP ADSs.

The amount realised on a sale or other disposition of WPP Shares or WPP ADSs for an amount in foreign currency will be the US dollar value of this amount on the date of sale or disposition. On the settlement date, the US Holder will recognise US source foreign currency gain or loss (taxable as ordinary income or loss) equal to the difference (if any) between the US dollar value of the amount received based on the exchange rates in effect on the date of sale or other disposition and the settlement date. However, in the case of WPP Shares or WPP ADSs traded on an established securities market that are sold by a cash basis US Holder (or an accrual basis US Holder that so elects), the amount realised will be determined using the exchange rate in effect on the settlement date for the sale, and no exchange gain or loss will be recognised at that time.

Foreign currency received on the sale or other disposition of a WPP Share or a WPP ADS will have a tax basis equal to its US dollar value on the settlement date. Any gain or loss recognised on a sale or other disposition of a foreign currency (including upon exchange for US dollars) will be US source ordinary income or loss.

Net Investment Tax

In addition, the net investment income of individuals and certain trusts (including income realised through certain pass-through entities), subject to certain thresholds, will be subject to an additional net investment tax of 3.8%. “Net investment income” is the excess of certain types of passive income, including dividends on and capital gains from distributions on or dispositions of a WPP Share or a WPP ADS, over certain related investment expenses. Thus, both dividends and capital gains realised directly or indirectly by an individual or trust will generally be added in computing the net investment income of such individual or trust subject to this additional tax. Taxpayers are urged to consult their own tax advisors with respect to the applicability of this tax.

Backup withholding and information reporting

Payments of dividends and other proceeds with respect to WPP Shares or WPP ADSs by a US paying agent or other US intermediary will be reported to the IRS and to the US Holder unless the holder is a corporation or

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otherwise establishes a basis for exemption. Backup withholding may apply to reportable payments if the US Holder fails to provide an accurate taxpayer identification number or certification of exempt status or fails to report all interest and dividends required to be shown on its US federal income tax returns. Any backup withholding tax will be refunded or allowed as a credit against the US Holder’s US federal income tax liability if the US Holder timely gives the appropriate information to the IRS. US Holders should consult their tax advisers as to their qualification for exemption from backup withholding and the procedure for obtaining an exemption.

F. Dividends and Paying Agents

Not applicable.

G. Statements by Experts

Not applicable.

H. Documents on Display

The Company is subject to the informational requirements of the Exchange Act. In accordance with these requirements, the Company files reports and other information with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission. You may read and copy any materials filed with the SEC at http://www.sec.gov that contains reports, proxy statements and other information regarding registrants that file electronically with the SEC. The Company’s Form 20-F is also available on the Company’s website, http://www.wpp.com.

I. Subsidiary Information

Not applicable.

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ITEM 11. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

The Company’s principal market risks are changes in interest rates and currency exchange rates. Following evaluation of these positions, the Company selectively enters into derivative financial instruments to manage its risk exposure. The fair value of derivatives held by the Company at 31 December 2019 is estimated to be a net liability of £21.3 million (£1.4 million with respect to derivative assets and £22.7 million for derivative liabilities). These amounts are based on market values of equivalent instruments at the balance sheet date.

Interest rate and foreign currency risks

The Company’s interest rate and foreign currency risks management policies are discussed in note 26 to the consolidated financial statements.

Interest rate derivatives and currency derivatives utilised by the Group are discussed in note 27 to the consolidated financial statements.

Analysis of fixed and floating rate debt by currency, including the effect of interest rate and cross currency swaps, as at the balance sheet date is provided in note 10 to the consolidated financial statements.

Sensitivity analyses that address the effect of interest rate and currency risks on the Group’s financial instruments is provided in note 26 to the consolidated financial statements.

Credit risk

Our credit risk exposure and management policies are discussed in note 26 to the consolidated financial statements.

ITEM 12. DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES OTHER THAN EQUITY SECURITIES

A. Debt Securities

Not applicable.

B. Warrants and Rights

Not applicable.

C. Other Securities

Not applicable.

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D. American Depositary Shares

Fees and Charges

Holders of ADSs and persons depositing ordinary shares or surrendering ADSs for cancellation are currently required to pay the following service fees to the Depositary:

Service	Rate	By Whom Paid
(1)   Issuance of ADSs upon deposit of ordinary shares (excluding issuances as a result of distributions described in paragraph (4) below).	Up to U.S.$5.00 per 100 ADSs (or fraction thereof) issued.	Person depositing ordinary shares or person receiving ADSs.
(2)   Delivery of deposited securities against surrender of ADSs.	Up to U.S.$5.00 per 100 ADSs (or fraction thereof) surrendered.	Person surrendering ADSs for purpose of withdrawal of deposited securities or person to whom deposited securities are delivered.
(3)   Distribution of cash dividends or other cash distributions (i.e., sale of rights and other entitlements).	Up to U.S.$2.00 per 100 ADSs (or fraction thereof) held, unless prohibited by the exchange upon which the ADSs are listed.	Person to whom distribution is made.
(4)   Distribution of ADSs pursuant to (i) stock dividends or other free stock distributions, or (ii) exercise of rights to purchase additional ADSs.	Up to U.S.$5.00 per 100 ADSs (or fraction thereof) issued, unless prohibited by the exchange upon which the ADSs are listed.	Person to whom distribution is made.
(5)   Distribution of securities other than ADSs or rights to purchase additional ADSs (i.e., spin-off shares).	Up to U.S.$5.00 per unit of 100 securities (or fraction thereof) distributed.	Person to whom distribution is made.
(6)   Depositary Services.	Up to U.S.$2.00 per 100 ADSs (or fraction thereof) held as of the last day of each calendar year, except to the extent of any cash dividend fee(s) charged under paragraph (3) above during the applicable calendar year.	Person of record on last day of any calendar year.
(7)   Transfer of ADRs.	U.S.$1.50 per certificate presented for transfer.	Person presenting certificate for transfer.

Holders of ADSs and persons depositing ordinary shares or surrendering ADSs for cancellation and for the purpose of withdrawing deposited securities are also responsible for the payment of certain fees and expenses incurred by the Depositary, and certain taxes and governmental charges, such as:

(i) Taxes (including applicable interest and penalties) and other governmental charges;

(ii) Such registration fees as may from time to time be in effect for the registration of ordinary shares on the share register and applicable to transfers of ordinary shares or other securities on deposit to or from the name of the Custodian, the Depositary or any nominees upon the making of deposits and withdrawals, respectively;

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(iii) Such cable, telex and facsimile transmission and delivery expenses as are expressly provided in the deposit agreement to be at the expense of the person depositing or withdrawing ordinary shares or holders of ADSs;

(iv) The expenses and charges incurred by the Depositary in the conversion of foreign currency;

(v) Such fees and expenses as are incurred by the Depositary in connection with compliance with exchange control regulations and other regulatory requirements applicable to ordinary shares, ordinary shares on deposit, ADSs and ADRs; and

(vi) The fees and expenses incurred by the Depositary, the Custodian or any nominee in connection with the servicing or delivery of ordinary shares on deposit.

WPP has agreed to pay various other charges and expenses of the Depositary. Please note that the fees and charges that holders of ADSs may be required to pay may vary over time and may be changed by WPP and by the Depositary. Holders of ADSs will receive prior notice of such changes.

Depositary Payments—Fiscal Year 2019

WPP did not receive any payments from Citibank, N.A., the Depositary for its American Depositary Receipt program, in 2019.

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PART II

ITEM 13. DEFAULTS, DIVIDEND ARREARAGES AND DELINQUENCIES

None.

ITEM 14. MATERIAL MODIFICATIONS TO THE RIGHTS OF SECURITY HOLDERS AND USE OF PROCEEDS

None.

ITEM 15. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Disclosure Controls and Procedures

In connection with the Original Filing, we performed an evaluation under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and our then Group Finance Director, of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) as at 31 December 2019. Notwithstanding the foregoing, a control system, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that it will detect or uncover failures within the Company to disclose material information otherwise required to be set forth in the Company’s periodic reports. Following the evaluation described above, our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and then Group Finance Director, concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were not effective as at 31 December 2019, due to the material weakness in internal control over financial reporting as described in Item 15 of the Original Filing.

Subsequent to the evaluation of our disclosure controls and procedures in connection with the Original Filing, management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, re-evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) as at 31 December 2019, in connection with the restatement discussed in the explanatory note to this Amendment. Based on that re-evaluation, our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were not effective as at 31 December 2019, due to the material weaknesses in internal control over financial reporting as described below.

Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting (Amended)

Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act). Our management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and our then Group Finance Director, carried out an assessment of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as at 31 December 2019. The assessment was performed using the criteria for effective internal control reflected in the Internal Control-Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).

Based on our assessment of the system of internal control in connection with the Original Filing, management concluded that as at 31 December 2019, our internal control over financial reporting was not effective because of the material weakness described in Item 15 of the Original Filing. Subsequent to that assessment, management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, reassessed the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as at 31 December 2019, in connection with the restatement discussed in the explanatory note to this Amendment. Based on our reassessment of the system of internal control, management concluded that as at 31 December 2019, our internal control over financial reporting was not effective because of the material weaknesses described below.

We identified material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting with respect to the design and implementation of effective controls relating to management’s review of the impairment assessment of intangible

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assets and goodwill. Specifically, controls relating to the selection of appropriate discount rates for use in the impairment calculations, and the determination of the appropriateness of the cash flow periods and associated discounting included in the impairment calculation were not effective. An area of significant judgment in our impairment analysis involves the use of the Capital Asset Pricing Model, which relies on discount rates as inputs to complete the analysis. Reasonable judgments are required to select the relevant discount rates in accordance with IAS 36, including the selection between calculating the cost of debt on a local, country-specific basis or a group-wide basis, based on assumptions surrounding the central treasury funding across the group and application of a market-participant viewpoint. In addition, inputs regarding the cost of equity consider the risk-free rate, which may be subject to country inflation to account for certain geopolitical and local currency risks. Further, the impairment model involves discounting forecast cash flows over appropriate periods to estimate the value in use of cash generating units in accordance with IAS 36. Our internal controls were not designed effectively to identify the application of an incorrect approach to determining certain inputs with respect to the discount rates in certain circumstances involving significant levels of judgment, such as in the context of resolving disparities between local-country interest rates and the group’s cost of debt and the determination of the appropriateness of the cash flow periods and associated discount rates reflected in the impairment assessment. We did not identify any material misstatements as a result of the foregoing material weaknesses in the year ended 31 December or in any prior years.

In connection with the restatement discussed in the explanatory note to this Amendment, we identified material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting with respect to the design and implementation of effective controls to ensure the appropriate application of IFRS for complex accounting matters and judgments, and to reflect changes in applicable accounting standards and interpretations or changes in the underlying business on a timely basis.

We also identified material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting with respect to the design and implementation of effective controls to ensure the eligibility of net investment hedging relationships under IFRS, the adequacy and maintenance of contemporaneous documentation of the application of hedge accounting, and management’s review of the impact of changes in internal financing structures on such hedging relationships.

These material weaknesses resulted in the restatement of our consolidated financial statements as of and for the years ended 31 December 2019, 2018 and 2017 relating to our notional cash pooling arrangements, net investment hedging arrangements and the fair value of liabilities in respect of put option agreements and payments due to vendors. For more information about the restatement and the related adjustments, see the accounting policies discussion and notes 6 and 27 of the accompanying consolidated financial statements.

Remediation of Material Weaknesses

Management is committed to remediating the identified material weaknesses in a timely manner, with appropriate oversight from our Audit Committee.

Our planned remediation with respect to management’s review of the impairment assessment of intangible assets and goodwill includes changing our approach to determining certain inputs with respect to the discount rates used in the impairment assessment, particularly those inputs that are subject to significant levels of judgment, and establishing a more comprehensive review process over such inputs, the discount rate methodology and the determination of the appropriateness of the cash flow periods and associated discounting in the impairment calculation. We are in the process of remediating these material weaknesses and have engaged an independent valuation specialist to assist us as an integral part of the discount rate and cash flow determination process on an on-going basis with oversight by management. Our remediation plan for these material weaknesses has included such items as updating our discount determination methodology for a current market participant approach; enhancing the level of review and controls related to the selection of the variables underpinning the discount rate calculation, the discount rate methodology and annual refresh; and implementing additional validation controls and additional reviews of the selection of cash flow periods.

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Our current efforts to remediate the material weaknesses identified with respect to our notional cash pooling arrangements, net investment hedging arrangements and the fair value of liabilities in respect of put option agreements and payments due to vendors include performing a comprehensive retrospective review of our controls and procedures and implementing enhanced periodic controls into our control framework. The comprehensive retrospective review includes identifying all critical accounting judgments with respect to financial statement line items, evaluating the application of the underlying accounting standards to those judgments and verifying the completeness, accuracy and reasonableness of those final judgments. Enhanced periodic controls that we are implementing include controls to identify and evaluate amended or clarified accounting standards, or new guidance with respect to accounting standards, as well as controls surrounding the verification of critical accounting judgments, including those most likely to be impacted by amendments to or clarifications of accounting standards we have adopted. Our management is undertaking a series of steps to complete the comprehensive review and remediation of our controls and procedures and has engaged outside advisors to assist with the performance of the comprehensive retrospective review.

Our current efforts to remediate the material weaknesses identified with respect to our net investment hedging arrangements include performing a comprehensive retrospective review of our controls and procedures to re-review our hedging relationships and the associated documentation and analyzing the application of hedge accounting to all other financial instruments to which such accounting treatment is being applied. We are also updating the design of our controls to verify the nature and existence of hedge documentation in accordance with IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement.

Management believes that the foregoing efforts will effectively remediate the material weaknesses.

The Company’s internal control over financial reporting as at 31 December 2019 has been audited by Deloitte LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, who also audited the Company’s consolidated financial statements. Their audit report, which expressed an adverse opinion on the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, is presented below.

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

Except as described above in management’s annual report on internal control over financial reporting (as amended), there has been no change in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act) that occurred during 2019, that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

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REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

To the shareholders and the Board of Directors of WPP plc

Opinion on Internal Control over Financial Reporting

We have audited the internal control over financial reporting of WPP plc and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as at 31 December 2019, based on criteria established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). In our opinion, because of the effect of the material weaknesses identified below on the achievement of the objectives of the control criteria, the Company has not maintained effective internal control over financial reporting as at 31 December 2019, based on criteria established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework (2013) issued by COSO.

We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2019, of the Company and our report dated 30 April 2020 (12 February 2021 as to the effects of the restatement discussed in the Accounting Policies to the consolidated financial statements) expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements and included explanatory paragraphs regarding the Company’s adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards 16 Leases from 1 January 2019 and the restatement of the Company’s consolidated financial statements to correct identified misstatements.

Basis for Opinion

The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting (as revised). Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

Definition and Limitations of Internal Control over Financial Reporting

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that

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controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

Material Weaknesses

A material weakness is a deficiency, or a combination of deficiencies, in internal control over financial reporting, such that there is a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement of the company’s annual or interim financial statements will not be prevented or detected on a timely basis. The following material weaknesses have been identified and included in management’s assessment:

(1) The Company did not design and implement effective controls relating to management’s review of the impairment assessment of intangible assets and goodwill. Specifically, controls relating to the selection of appropriate discount rates for use in the impairment calculations, and the determination of the appropriateness of the cash flow periods and associated discounting included in the impairment assessment were not effective.

(2) The Company did not design and implement effective controls to ensure the appropriate application of IFRS for complex accounting matters and judgements, and to reflect changes in applicable accounting standards and interpretations or changes in the underlying business on a timely basis.

(3) The Company did not design and implement effective controls to ensure the eligibility of net investment hedging relationships under IFRS, the adequacy and maintenance of contemporaneous documentation of the application of hedge accounting, and management’s review of the impact of changes in internal financing structures on such hedging relationships.

These material weaknesses were considered in determining the nature, timing, and extent of audit tests applied in our audit of the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2019, of the Company, and this report does not affect our report on such consolidated financial statements.

/s/ Deloitte LLP

Deloitte LLP

London, United Kingdom

30 April 2020 (12 February 2021, as to the effects of the material weaknesses as a result of the restatement of the previously issued consolidated financial statements described in Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting (as revised))

ITEM 16A. AUDIT COMMITTEE FINANCIAL EXPERT

The audit committee consisted of Jacques Aigrain, Tarek Farahat, Solomon D. Trujillo, and Cindy Rose at 31 December 2019. Sandrine Dufour was appointed as a Director and a member of the audit committee on 3 February 2020. The board of directors has determined that all members of the audit committee are “independent” as that term is defined in the applicable NYSE listing standards and rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission.

WPP has three audit committee financial experts, Jacques Aigrain, serving as Chairman of the audit committee, Tarek Farahat and Sandrine Dufour, members of the committee. See the biographies of Jacques Aigrain, Tarek Farahat and Sandrine Dufour in Item 6A.

ITEM 16B. CODE OF ETHICS

WPP has in place a Code of Business Conduct that constitutes a “code of ethics” as defined in applicable regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Code of Business Conduct, which is regularly

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reviewed by the Audit Committee and the Board and was last updated in 2016, sets out the principal obligations of all directors, officers and employees. Directors and senior executives throughout the Group are required each year to sign this Code. The WPP Code of Business Conduct is available on the Company’s website, www.wpp.com/investors/corporate-governance. This Annual Report on Form 20-F does not incorporate by reference information on the Company’s website.

ITEM 16C. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES

	2019 £m	2018 £m
Audit fees	34.5	30.83
Tax fees1	—	0.1
All other fees2	8.2	4.7
	42.7	35.6

¹  Tax fees comprise tax advisory, planning and compliance services. All tax fees were approved by the Audit Committee.

²  Other fees comprise services, including fees for due diligence and review of earn-out payment calculations. All other fees were approved by the Audit Committee.

³  Includes a true-up of £3.5 million.

See note 3 to the consolidated financial statements for more details of auditors’ remuneration for the years ended 31 December 2019, 2018 and 2017.

Audit Committee Pre-Approval Policies and Procedures

The Audit Committee has a pre-approval policy for the engagement of the external auditors in relation to the supply of permissible non-audit services, taking into account relevant ethical and regulatory requirements. WPP’s policy regarding non-audit services that may be provided by the Group’s auditors, Deloitte, prohibits certain categories of work in line with relevant guidance on independence, such as ethical standards issued by the Auditing Practices Board and independence rules of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) and the SEC. Other categories of work may be undertaken by Deloitte subject to an approvals process that is designed appropriately for different categories and values of proposed work.

ITEM 16D. EXEMPTIONS FROM THE LISTING STANDARDS FOR AUDIT COMMITTEES

Not applicable.

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ITEM 16E. PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES BY THE ISSUER AND AFFILIATED PURCHASERS

At the Annual General Meeting of WPP plc on 13 June 2018 a special resolution was passed authorising WPP plc to make market purchases of its own shares up to a maximum number of 126,611,100 ordinary shares. This authority expired at the Annual General Meeting of WPP plc on 12 June 2019 and was replaced by a new authority to purchase up to a maximum number of 126,188,373 ordinary shares until the earlier of the conclusion of the Annual General Meeting of WPP plc in 2020 and 1 September 2020.

	Total number of shares purchased		Average price (£)		Total number of shares purchased as part of publicly announced plan		Maximum number of shares that may yet be purchased under plan
January		—		—		—		125,861.100
February		—		—		—		125,861,100
March		—		—		—		125,861,100
April		—		—		—		125,861,100
May		—		—		—		125,861,100
June		—		—		—		126,188,373
July		—		—		—		126,188,373
August		—		—		—		126,188,373
September		—		—		—		126,188,373
October		—		—		—		126,188,373
November		—		—		—		126,188,373
December		4,586,039		10.40		4,586,039		121,602,334
Total1		4,586,039		10.40		4,586,039

¹   Total shares purchased following the buyback of 261,178 shares on 30 December 2019 and 96,280 shares in 31 December 2019.

ITEM 16F. CHANGE IN REGISTRANT’S CERTIFYING ACCOUNTANT

Not applicable.

ITEM 16G. CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

The Company’s ADSs are listed on the NYSE. In general, under Section 303A.11 of the NYSE’s Listed Company Manual, foreign private issuers such as WPP listed on the NYSE are permitted to follow home country corporate governance practices instead of certain of the corporate governance requirements of Section 303A of the Listed Company Manual.

The following discussion identifies the principal ways that WPP’s corporate governance practices differ from the requirements of Section 303A of the Listed Company Manual:

• Section 303A.03 requires that non-management directors hold regular executive sessions and that the listed company disclose on its website or in its annual report the name of the director presiding at such sessions. The Company’s non-management directors do not hold executive sessions as this is not required under the UK Corporate Governance Code.

• Section 303A.04 requires that the written charter of the nominating/corporate governance committee and the compensation committee each require that the committee consist entirely of independent directors. While all current members of the Company’s Nomination and Governance Committee are independent, the terms of reference of the committee require, consistent with the UK Corporate Governance Code, that only a majority of the members of the committee be independent.

• Section 303A.05 requires that compensation committees have authority to retain compensation consultants, legal counsel and other advisers at the issuer’s expense, and that they consider specific factors before doing so. Section 303A.05 also requires that a compensation committee’s written charter cover the preparation of disclosure required of domestic issuers by Item 407(e)(5)

80

of Regulation S-K and delegation of the committee’s duties to one or more subcommittees. The terms of reference of the Company’s Compensation Committee give the committee the authority to obtain outside legal assistance and any professional advice, at the Company’s expense, as the committee considers necessary for the discharge of its responsibilities, but do not specifically require the committee to consider the factors listed in Section 303A.05. The committee’s terms of reference also do not cover the preparation of the Item 407(e)(5) disclosure or delegation of the committee’s duties to subcommittees.

• Section 303A.07 requires that terms of reference of a listed company’s audit committee cover the preparation of disclosure required of domestic issuer by Item 407(d)(3) of Regulation S-K and require that the committee meet separately with management. The terms of reference of the Company’s Audit Committee do not cover these matters, although they do require that the committee meet separately with the auditors and the head of the Company’s internal audit team.

• Section 303A.08 requires that listed companies obtain shareholder approval before a stock option or purchase plan is established or materially revised or other equity compensation arrangement is made or materially revised pursuant to which stock may be acquired by directors, employees or other service providers of the listed company, subject to certain exceptions. The Company seeks share owner approval for the adoption or amendment of stock plans or stock purchase plans only as required by the Articles of Association of the Company, the Listing Rules of the UK Listing Authority (the Listing Rules) and the laws of Jersey.

Subject to the exceptions permitted in the Listing Rules, this involves seeking share owner approval to any such plan that falls into either of the following categories (as defined in the Listing Rules):

(a) an employees’ share scheme if the scheme involves or may involve the issue of new shares or the transfer of treasury shares; and

(b) a long-term incentive plan in which one or more directors of the Company is eligible to participate and to material amendments of that plan to the extent required by the plan’s rules. In this context, it should be noted that the provisions of the rules relating to whether amendments to the plan rules must be approved by share owners must themselves be drafted to ensure compliance with the Listing Rules.

• Section 303A.09 requires that listed companies adopt corporate governance guidelines that cover certain specified matters. The Company follows the UK Corporate Governance Code, which covers all of the matters specified in Section 303A.09 (and more). As is customary for UK companies, the Company states its compliance with the Code on an annual basis rather than adopting the elements of the Code as a separate written policy.

• Section 303A.12 requires that each listed company must provide certain certifications of compliance with the NYSE corporate governance rules annually. The Company complies instead with the requirements of the UK Corporate Governance Code in this regard.

ITEM 16H. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURE

Not applicable.

PART III

ITEM 17. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Not applicable.

81

ITEM 18. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The consolidated financial statements of WPP plc at 31 December 2019 and 2018 and for the years ending 31 December 2019, 2018 and 2017 are included in this report beginning on page F-1.

ITEM 19. EXHIBITS

Exhibit No.	Exhibit Title
1.1	Memorandum and Articles of Association of WPP plc (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit  1 to the Registrant’s Report on Form 6-K filed on 2 January 2013).
2.1	Deposit Agreement dated as of 2  January 2013 among the Registrant, Citibank, N.A. as Depositary, and all holders and beneficial owners from time to time of American Depositary Receipts issued thereunder (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 99(A)(I) to the Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form F-6EF filed on 31 December 2012).
2.2	Restricted ADS Letter Agreement dated as of 2  January 2013 between the Registrant and Citibank, N.A., as Depositary (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 99(A)(II) to the Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form F-6EF filed on 31  December 2012).
2.3	Agreement of Registrant to file, if requested by the Securities and Exchange Commission, instruments relating to U.S.$500,000,000 3.625% Guaranteed Senior Notes due September 2022 and $300,000,000 5.125% Guaranteed Senior Notes due 2042 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 2.15 of the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F filed for the year ended 31 December 2012).
2.4	Agreement of Registrant to file, if requested by the Securities and Exchange Commission, instruments relating to U.S.$500,000,000 5.625% Guaranteed Senior Notes due November 2043 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 2.14 of the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F filed for the year ended 31 December 2013).
2.5	Agreement of Registrant to file, if requested by the Securities and Exchange Commission, instruments relating to €750  million of 3.00% Fixed Rate Senior Notes due November 2023 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 2.15 of the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F filed for the year ended 31  December 2013).
2.6	Agreement of Registrant to file, if requested by the Securities and Exchange Commission, instruments relating to $750,000,000 of 3.750% Senior Notes Due 2024 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 2.13 of the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended 31 December 2014).
2.7	Agreement of Registrant to file, if requested by the Securities and Exchange Commission, instruments relating to €750,000,000 of 2.250% of Senior Notes Due 2026 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 2.14 of the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended 31 December 2014).
2.8	Agreement of Registrant to file, if requested by the Securities and Exchange Commission, instruments relating to €600  million of 1.625% Notes due March 2030 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 2.15 of the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended 31 December 2014).
2.9	Agreement of Registrant to file, if requested by the Securities and Exchange Commission, instruments relating to £400 million of 2.875% Notes due September 2046 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 2.14 of the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended 31 December 2016).

82

Exhibit No.	Exhibit Title
2.10	Agreement of Registrant to file, if requested by the Securities and Exchange Commission, instruments relating to €250  million of senior bonds due May 2020 that pay a coupon of 3 month EURIBOR plus 0.32% (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 2.15 of the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended 31  December 2017).
2.11	Agreement of Registrant to file, if requested by the Securities and Exchange Commission, instruments relating to €250  million of guaranteed senior bonds due March 2022 that pay a coupon of 3 month EURIBOR plus 0.45% (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 2.16 of the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended 31 December 2017).
2.12	Agreement of Registrant to file, if requested by the Securities and Exchange Commission, instruments relating to €500  million of 1.375% guaranteed senior bonds due March 2025 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 2.17 of the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended 31 December 2017).
2.13	Agreement of Registrant to file, if requested by the Securities and Exchange Commission, instruments relating to an A$547 million and NZ$3 million Syndicated Facility Agreement entered into by WPP AUNZ Limited, dated 26 June 2018 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 2.15 to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended 31 December 2018).
2.14	U.S. $2,500,000,000 Revolving Credit Facility Agreement, dated 15  March 2019, by and among WP CP LLC, WPP Finance Co. Limited and WPP CP Finance plc, as Borrowers, and the Guarantors, Facility Agent, Swingline Agent, Bookrunners and Lenders thereto (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 2.16 to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended 31 December 2018).
2.15	Description of WPP plc Share Capital and American Depositary Shares (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 2.15 to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended 31 December 2019, as filed with SEC on 30 April 2020).
4.1	J. Walter Thompson Company, Inc. Retained Benefit Supplemental Employee Retirement Plan (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.9 to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended 31 December 2000).
4.2	Young  & Rubicam Inc. Deferred Compensation Plan (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.26 to Young & Rubicam’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File  No. 333-46929)).
4.3	Amendment No. 2 to Young  & Rubicam Inc. Deferred Compensation Plan effective as of 1 January 1999 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.27 to Young  & Rubicam’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended 31 December 1998).
4.4	Young  & Rubicam Inc. Executive Income Deferral Program (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.19 to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended 31 December 2000).
4.5	Ogilvy  & Mather ERISA Excess Plan Summary Plan Description (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.12 of the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended 31  December 2008).
4.6	Ogilvy  & Mather Executive Savings Plan Summary Plan Description, in connection with a 25% matching contribution (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.13 of the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended 31 December 2008).
4.7	Ogilvy  & Mather Executive Savings Plan Summary Plan Description, in connection with a 50% matching contribution (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.14 of the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended 31 December 2008).
4.8	Ogilvy  & Mather Deferred Compensation Plan Summary Plan Description (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.15 of the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended 31  December 2008).

83

Exhibit No.	Exhibit Title
4.9	WPP Executive Stock Option Plan, as amended through 12  November 2012 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.9 of the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F filed for the year ended 31 December 2012).
4.10	WPP plc Restricted Stock Plan, as amended through 12  November 2012 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.10 of the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F filed for the year ended 31 December 2012).
4.11	WPP 2005 Executive Stock Option Plan, as amended through 12  November 2012 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.11 of the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F filed for the year ended 31 December 2012).
4.12	WPP plc Annual Bonus Deferral Programme, as amended through 12  November 2012 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.12 of the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F filed for the year ended 31 December 2012).
4.13	GroupM Executive Savings Plan Summary Plan Description (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.24 of the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended 31 December 2008).
4.14	WPP 2008 Executive Stock Option Plan, as amended through 12  November 2012 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.14 of the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F filed for the year ended 31 December 2012).
4.15	Service Agreement in the USA, dated 30  April 2009, between WPP Group USA, Inc. and Paul W.G.  Richardson (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.30 of the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended 31 December 2008).
4.16	Director’s appointment agreement, dated 21  November 2008, between WPP plc and Paul Richardson (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.31 of the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended 31 December 2008).
4.17	Supplemental Retirement Agreement, dated as of 1  July 2008, by and between WPP Group USA, Inc. and Paul Richardson (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.34 of the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended 31  December 2008).
4.18	Amendment dated 19  November 2008 to Supplemental Retirement Agreement, dated as of 1 July 2008, by and between WPP Group USA, Inc. and Paul Richardson (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.35 of the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended 31 December 2008).
4.19	Grey Advertising Inc. Senior Executive Officer Post-Employment Compensation Plan (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.40 of the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended 31 December 2008).
4.20	Amendment No.  1 to the Grey Advertising Inc. Senior Executive Officer Post-Employment Compensation Plan, effective as of January 1, 2009 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.41 of the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended 31 December 2008).
4.21	Amendment No.  1 to the J. Walter Thompson Retained Benefit Supplemental Employee Retirement Plan, effective as of January 1, 2009 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.42 of the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended 31 December 2008).
4.22	Second Amendment, dated 22  June 2011, to Supplemental Retirement Agreement, dated as of 1 July 2008, by and between WPP Group USA, Inc. and Paul Richardson (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.41 to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended 31 December 2011).
4.23	WPP 2012 Executive Stock Option Plan (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.32 of the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F filed for the year ended 31 December 2012).

84

Exhibit No.	Exhibit Title
4.24	WPP plc Executive Performance Share Plan (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.33 of the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F filed for the year ended 31 December 2013).
4.25	WPP Share Option Plan 2015 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.32 of the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended 31 December 2016).
4.26	Service Agreement, dated 3  September 2018, between WPP 2005 Limited and Mark Read (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.26 of the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F filed for the year ended 31  December 2018).
4.27	The WPP plc Stock Plan 2018 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.27 to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended 31 December 2018).
4.28	Service Agreement, dated 1  October 2019, between WPP 2005 Limited and John Rogers (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.28 to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended 31 December 2019, as filed with SEC on 30 April 2020).
4.29	Sale and Purchase Agreement, dated 12  July 2019, as amended, between the Registrant, Summer (BC) Topco S.a r.l., and Summer (BC) UK Bidco Limited (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.29 to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended 31  December 2019, as filed with SEC on 30 April 2020).
4.30	Securityholders’ Agreement, dated 5  December 2019, between Summer (BC) US JVCO S.C.Sp., Summer (BC) US JVCo GP S.a r.l., Summer (BC) JVCO S.a r.l., York Merger Square 2009 LLC, WPP Diamond Head LLC, WPP 2005 Limited, Summer (BC) Topco S.a r.l., and Summer (BC) US Blockerco Corp (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.30 to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended 31 December 2019, as filed with SEC on 30 April 2020).
8.1	List of subsidiaries (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 8.1 to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended 31 December 2019, as filed with SEC on 30 April 2020).
12.1	Certification of Chief Executive Officer.*
12.2	Certification of Chief Executive Officer.*
13.1	Certification of Chief Executive Officer under 18 U.S.C. Section 1350.*
13.2	Certification of Chief Executive Officer under 18 U.S.C. Section 1350.*
14.1	Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm (for WPP plc and subsidiaries).*
17.1	List of subsidiary guarantors and issuers of guaranteed securities (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 17.1 to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended 31 December 2019, as filed with SEC on 30 April 2020).
101.INS	XBRL Instance Document*
101.SCH	XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Linkbase Document*
101.CAL	XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document*
101.DEF	XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document*
101.LAB	XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document*
101.PRE	XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document*

* Filed herewith.

85

Signatures

The Registrant hereby certifies that it meets all of the requirements for filing on Form 20-F and that it has duly caused and authorized the undersigned to sign this annual report on its behalf.

WPP plc
By:	/s/ John Rogers
	John Rogers Chief Financial Officer
	12 February 2021

86

Item 18

INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Financial Statement Number			Page
A.	Financial Statements of WPP plc as at and for the years ended 31 December 2019, 2018 and 2017
	(i)	Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm		F-1
	(ii)	Accounting policies		F-5
	(iii)	Consolidated income statement for the years ended 31 December 2019, 2018, 2017		F-15
	(iv)	Consolidated statement of comprehensive income for the years ended 31 December 2019, 2018, 2017		F-16
	(v)	Consolidated cash flow statement for the years ended 31 December 2019, 2018, 2017		F-17
	(vi)	Consolidated balance sheet at 31 December 2019 and 2018		F-18
	(vii)	Consolidated statement of changes in equity for the years ended 31 December 2019, 2018, 2017		F-19
	(viii)	Notes to the consolidated financial statements		F-20

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

To the shareholders and the Board of Directors of WPP plc

Opinion on the Financial Statements

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of WPP plc and its subsidiaries (the “Company”) as at 31 December 2019 and 2018, the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, changes in equity and cash flows, for each of the three years in the period ended 31 December 2019, and the related notes (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as at 31 December 2019 and 2018, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended 31 December 2019, in conformity with International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (“IFRS”).

We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as at 31 December 2019, based on criteria established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission and our report dated 30 April 2020 (12 February 2021 as to the effects of the material weaknesses described in Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting (as revised)) expressed an adverse opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting because of identified material weaknesses.

Restatement of the Financial Statements

As discussed in the Accounting Policies to the financial statements, the accompanying financial statements have been restated to correct identified misstatements.

Change in Accounting Principle

As discussed in the Accounting Policies to the financial statements, the Company has changed its method of accounting for leases from 1 January 2019 due to adoption of International Financial Reporting Standard 16 Leases.

Basis for Opinion

These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

Critical Audit Matters

The critical audit matters communicated below are matters arising from the current-period audit of the financial statements that were communicated or required to be communicated to the audit committee and that (1) relate to accounts or disclosures that are material to the financial statements and (2) involved especially challenging, subjective, or complex judgements. The communication of critical audit matters does not alter in any way our opinion on the financial statements, taken as a whole, and we are not, by communicating the critical audit matters below, providing separate opinions on the critical audit matters or on the accounts or disclosures to which they relate.

Goodwill — Refer to Notes 3 (Costs of services and general and administrative costs) and 14 (Intangible assets) to the financial statements

Critical Audit Matter Description

The net book value of goodwill was £10,171 million as at 31 December 2019. The Company’s assessment of goodwill for impairment involves the comparison of the recoverable amount of goodwill to its carrying value as at the 30 September measurement date. An impairment charge of £48 million was recorded in the current year

F-1

related to a number of under-performing businesses. The Company used the value in use approach which uses a

discounted cash flow to estimate the recoverable amount of each group of cash generating units, using assumptions related to discount rates, short-term forecasts and long-term growth rates. The impact of COVID-19 was treated as a non-adjusting subsequent event and was not reflected within the goodwill impairment testing.

We identified goodwill valuation and allocation as a critical audit matter because of the significant judgements made by management to estimate the recoverable amount of goodwill. Estimates of future performance and market conditions used to arrive at the net present value of future cash flows at 30 September, which is used within the goodwill impairment analysis, are subjective in nature. Through our risk assessment procedures, we identified those inputs to the goodwill impairment analysis that were the most sensitive which enabled us to design our audit procedures to address the higher risk areas in our work, focusing on those estimates that are either complex, including the discount rate calculations, or subjective in nature, including the short-term forecast and long-term growth rates.

How the Critical Audit Matter Was Addressed in the Audit

Our audit procedures focused on challenging the inputs to the discounted cash flow model used to determine the recoverable amount of each group of cash generating units and included the following audit procedures, among others:

• We tested the effectiveness of controls over management’s selection of short-term forecasts and long-term growth rates used to determine the recoverable amount for each group of cash generating units.

• We agreed the underlying cash flow projections to Board-approved forecasts and we tested management’s ability to accurately forecast future revenues and growth rates by comparing actual results to management’s historical forecasts.

• With the assistance of our valuation specialists we tested the appropriateness of the discount rates used for each group of cash generating units by:

• Testing the source information underlying the determination of the discount rate and the mathematical accuracy of the calculation.

• Developing a range of independent estimates and comparing those to the discount rates selected by management.

• We compared the long-term growth rates to independent market data.

• We analyzed the actual results between the date of the impairment test and the balance sheet date to determine if any additional indicators of impairment existed.

• We evaluated the Company’s disclosures on goodwill against the requirements of IFRS.

Taxation — Refer to Note 7 (Taxation) to the financial statements

Critical Audit Matter Description

The Company is subject to corporate taxes in a number of different jurisdictions with complex tax laws and regulations. Tax reserves are required to be recorded in relation to uncertain tax positions, which are based on management’s identification of relevant jurisdictions, interpretation of tax law and understanding of the approach of the local tax authorities. In many cases, there is a range of potential outcomes which must be considered.

We identified the valuation and allocation of reserves for taxes as a critical audit matter because of the multiple jurisdictions in which the Company files its tax returns and the complexity of relevant tax laws and regulations. This required a high degree of auditor judgement and an increased extent of effort, including involvement of our tax specialists, when performing audit procedures to challenge the appropriateness of management’s estimates of tax reserves.

How the Critical Audit Matter Was Addressed in the Audit

Our audit procedures related to the valuation and allocation of taxation reserves included the following, among others:

• We tested the effectiveness of controls over management’s valuation of the reserves and over the monitoring of exposures related to tax audits.

• We evaluated management’s assessment of the impact of developments during the period in international tax rules on the Company.

• We evaluated management’s calculations of uncertain tax provisions arising from the risk of tax authority challenge of historical arrangements and tested the assumptions made in those calculations.

• With the assistance of our tax specialists, we tested the estimates made by management in determining the reserves by:

• Evaluating the assumptions used in the Company’s analysis of uncertain tax positions based on knowledge of the Company and relevant tax regimes.

F-2

• Reading the Company’s correspondence with tax authorities in significant locations to determine whether any other tax exposure exists and whether the amounts provided for appear reasonable and the appropriate recognition criteria has been met.

• Reading the tax opinions provided by external legal counsel.

• Evaluating historical settlement amounts to determine whether management has been adequately provided in the past.

• We also assessed the disclosure in the financial statements in relation to the requirements of IFRS.

Assets held for sale and discontinued operations — Refer to Note 12 (Assets held for sale and discontinued operations) to the financial statements

Critical Audit Matter Description

Following the Company’s announcement of the proposed sale of the Kantar business to Bain Capital in July 2019, Kantar was classified as held for sale and reported as a discontinued operation under IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations. On 5 December 2019 the first stage of the transaction completed, which involved the sale of approximately 90% of the Kantar group. The gain recognised on the sale of the discontinued operations was £74 million.

Particular complexities associated with the Kantar disposal were:

• The agreement to provide certain post disposal services as part of the transition agreement within the overall disposal agreement required significant judgement in determining the appropriate accounting treatment.

• The overall gain on disposal involved a number of judgements, particularly related to contingent consideration.

Due to the complexity and inherent judgement associated with the Company’s accounting treatment for consideration as defined within the transition service agreements and the determination of contingent consideration per the disposal agreement, we have identified the Kantar disposal as a critical audit matter.

How the Critical Audit Matter Was Addressed in the Audit

Our audit procedures related to the Kantar disposal were as follows, among others:

• We tested the effectiveness of controls established to identify, authorize and approve, account for and disclose the disposal transaction in the financial statements.

• We performed procedures to test the calculation of the gain recognized at the disposal date.

• We assessed the appropriateness of the Company’s treatment of variable elements of consideration.

• We utilized technical accounting specialists to assess the transition service agreements in order to determine the appropriate accounting and subjected the estimates determined by management to our audit procedures.

• We analyzed the terms of the disposal agreement.

• We read the minutes of the Board of Directors which evidenced authorization and approval of the transaction.

• We performed procedures to test the effectiveness of internal controls specific to IFRS 5.

Going concern — Refer to Note 26 (Risk management policies) to the financial statements

Critical Audit Matter Description

The Board of Directors has concluded that there are no material uncertainties that give rise to significant doubt over the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern for at least twelve months from the date of the approval of the financial statements.

Given the inherent uncertainty associated with COVID-19, it is currently difficult to determine a reasonable worst case scenario. Accordingly, management modelled a range of scenarios. These included a scenario which assumed a year-on-year decline of over 35% in revenue less pass through costs as defined in Note 2 Segment Information. The directors determined that the likelihood of the Company breaching its banking covenants as at 31 December 2020 and not having access to sufficient liquidity for at least twelve months from the date of signing the financial statements is remote considering the decline in revenue less pass through costs required and the mitigating actions available to management, including the suspension of share buy-backs and the final dividend.

As a result of the uncertainty as to the impact of COVID-19 on the Company, we identified a critical audit matter related to going concern due to the significant judgement required to conclude that there is not a material uncertainty related to going concern, in particular the judgement that the likelihood of the Company experiencing a decline in revenue less pass through costs that would result in a breach of its banking covenants at 31 December 2020 is remote.

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How the Critical Audit Matter Was Addressed in the Audit

We performed the following audit procedures which consider the impact of the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic, among others:

• We tested the effectiveness of controls over management’s going concern models, including the review of the inputs and assumptions used in those models, and the review of going concern disclosures.

• We utilized our internal transaction specialists to assess the appropriateness of forecast assumptions by:

• Reading analyst reports, industry data and other external information to determine if it provided corroborative or contradictory evidence in relation to management’s assumptions.

• Comparing forecasted sales to recent historical financial information.

• Enquiring of management regarding the mitigating actions to reduce costs and manage cash flows and assessing whether the mitigating actions were within the Company’s control.

• We tested the underlying data generated to prepare the forecast scenarios and determined whether there was adequate support for the assumptions underlying the forecast.

• We read the terms of the revolving credit facility to obtain an understanding of the debt covenants.

• We evaluated the Company’s disclosures on going concern against the requirements of IAS 1 and PCAOB AS 2415.

/s/ Deloitte LLP

Deloitte LLP

London, United Kingdom

30 April 2020 (12 February 2021 as to the effects of the restatement discussed in the Accounting Policies to the financial statements)

We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2002.

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2019 financial statements

Accounting policies

The consolidated financial statements of WPP plc and its subsidiaries (the Group) for the year ended 31 December 2019 have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board as they apply to the financial statements of the Group for the year ended 31 December 2019.

Basis of preparation

The consolidated financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention, except for the revaluation of certain financial instruments and held for sale assets. The financial statements have been prepared using the going concern basis of accounting. The principal accounting policies are set out below.

The financial statements were originally approved by the Board of Directors and authorized for issue on 30 April 2020, and have been amended as of 12 February 2021 solely to correct the matters described below under the Restatement subheading.

Basis of consolidation

The consolidated financial statements include the results of the Company and all its subsidiary undertakings made up to the same accounting date. All intra-Group balances, transactions, income and expenses are eliminated in full on consolidation. The results of subsidiary undertakings acquired or disposed of during the period are included or excluded from the consolidated income statement from the effective date of acquisition or disposal.

Restatement

After the consolidated financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2019 were issued it was determined that they did not comply with certain elements of the application of IAS 32 Financial Instruments: Presentation and IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, resulting in the incorrect presentation of the Company’s notional cash pooling arrangements on the balance sheet and the inappropriate deferral of foreign exchange movements in the Company’s translation reserve due to the inappropriate application of hedge accounting in respect of non-derivative financial instruments and the inappropriate discount rate being applied in the calculation of the fair value of liabilities in respect of put option agreements and payments due to vendors (earnout agreements).

Therefore, there has been a restatement of the years ended 31 December 2019, 31 December 2018, and 31 December 2017. The impact of this change is to increase cash and short-term deposits and bank overdrafts, bonds and bank loans by £8,336.7 million for the year ended 31 December 2019 (2018: £8,422.6 million, 2017: £9,459.6 million), while having no impact on the Company’s debt less cash position. This adjustment does not impact the consolidated income statement or consolidated cash flow statement.

Net investment hedging was inappropriately applied against certain foreign exchange exposures and net investment in foreign operations, where the relationship was either an ineligible hedging relationship under IFRS or insufficiently documented, such that the criteria to apply hedge accounting under IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement were not met. Therefore, there has been a restatement of the years ended 31 December 2019, 2018 and 2017, resulting in the reclassification of gains/losses recognised in exchange adjustments on foreign currency net investments within the consolidated statement of comprehensive income to be reported in the consolidated income statement as revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments (note 6). The impact of this change is a £245.7 million gain for the year ended 31 December 2019 (2018: £205.1 million loss, 2017: £194.6 million gain) being recognised in revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments. This change also reduces the opening retained earnings balance as at 1 January 2017 by £506.9 million with a corresponding increase in the foreign currency translation reserve.

The fair value of liabilities in respect of put option agreements and payments due to vendors (earnout agreements) are recorded at the present value of the expected cash outflows of the obligation. The discount rate historically used in this calculation represented the Company’s cost of debt. To fully reflect the risk in the cash flows, the Company has changed the discount rate used in this calculation, and restated the periods ending 31 December 2019, 2018 and 2017 to reflect the change, which resulted in the following adjustments:

• Liabilities in respect of put options (notes 19 and 20) have decreased by £22.3 million at 31 December 2019 (2018: £34.0 million, 2017: £36.4 million) and a charge of £10.8 million in 2019 (2018: £8.5 million, 2017: £11.8 million) recognised in the consolidated income statement within the revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments (note 6). Other reserves on the consolidated balance sheet increased by £59.6 million at 31 December 2019 (2018: £51.5 million, 2017: £45.1 million);

• Payments due to vendors (earnout agreements) (notes 19 and 20) have decreased by £10.1 million at 31 December 2019 (2018: £13.9 million, 2017: £46.2 million) and a charge of £2.7 million in 2019 (2018: £32.1 million, 2017: £35.7 million) recognised in the

F-5

Accounting policies (continued)

consolidated income statement within the revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments (note 6). Goodwill on the consolidated balance sheet decreased by £60.1 million at 31 December 2019 (2018: £70.2 million, 2017: £78.3 million); and

• The goodwill impairment charge (note 3) decreased by £7.4 million in 2018, as a result of the above adjustments that decreased goodwill and payments due to vendors (earnout agreements) on the consolidated balance sheet.

• These changes also increases the opening retained earnings balance as at 1 January 2017 by £6.8 million.

The restatements described in this note resulted in an increase in the basic and diluted earnings per share from continuing and discontinued operations of 18.6p and 18.4p, respectively, for the year ended 31 December 2019 (2018: decrease of 19.1p and 18.9p, respectively; 2017: increase of 11.7p and 11.5p, respectively).

New IFRS accounting pronouncements

In the current year, the following Standards and Interpretations became effective:

• IFRS 16 Leases; and

• IFRIC 23 Uncertainty over Income Tax Treatments.

Impact of the Adoption of IFRS 16 leases

IFRS 16 is effective from 1 January 2019. The standard eliminates the classification of leases as either operating or finance leases and introduces a single accounting model. Lessees are required to recognise a right-of-use asset and related lease liability for their operating leases and show depreciation of leased assets and interest on lease liabilities separately in the income statement. IFRS 16 requires the Group to recognise substantially all of its operating leases on the balance sheet.

The Group adopted IFRS 16 effective 1 January 2019 on a modified retrospective basis and applied the standard retrospectively with the cumulative effect of initially applying the standard recognised at the date of initial application as an adjustment to retained earnings. Accordingly, prior year financial information has not been restated and will continue to be reported under IAS 17 Leases. The right-of-use asset and lease liability have initially been measured at the present value of the remaining lease payments, with the right-of-use asset being subject to certain adjustments. For certain leases the right-of-use asset was measured as if the standard had been applied from the lease commencement date and for others the right-of-use asset was set equal to the lease liability.

When applying IFRS 16, the Group has applied the following practical expedients, on transition date:

• Reliance on the previous identification of a lease (as provided by IAS 17) for all contracts that existed on the date of initial application;

• Reliance on previous assessments on whether leases are onerous instead of performing an impairment review;

• Exclusion of initial direct costs from the measurement of the right-of-use asset at the date of initial application;

• The accounting for operating leases with a remaining lease term of less than 12 months as at 1 January 2019 as short-term leases; and

• The use of hindsight, such as in determining the lease term if the contract contains options to extend or terminate the lease.

The right-of-use asset and lease liability recorded on the consolidated balance sheet as of 1 January 2019 were £1,895.1 million and £2,326.2 million, respectively. There was a reduction in other creditors of £233.5 million and property provisions of £68.7 million with regard to amounts related to property leases, including deferred rent and tenant improvement allowances, which are now recognised in the right-of-use asset. These movements resulted in a decrease to retained earnings of £128.9 million and the recognition of a deferred tax asset of £27.8 million on this movement.

For the year ended 31 December 2019, depreciation of the right-of-use asset and recognition of interest on the lease liability in the consolidated income statement replaced amounts recognised as rent expense under IAS 17. The implementation of IFRS 16 on 1 January 2019 resulted in an increase to operating profit of £61.0 million and a decrease to diluted earnings per share of 1.8p.

F-6

Accounting policies (continued)

The following table reconciles the opening balance for the lease liabilities as at 1 January 2019 based upon the operating lease obligations as at 31 December 2018:

£ million
Operating lease commitments at 31 December 2018	3,628.2
Short-term and low value leases not included in lease liabilities	(73.8	)
Extension options reasonably certain to be exercised	115.1
Signed leases not yet commenced	(598.1	)
Gross lease liabilities at 1 January 2019	3,071.4
Effect of discounting	(745.2	)
Lease liabilities at 1 January 2019	2,326.2

The weighted average discount rate was 5.4% at 1 January 2019.

Impact of the Adoption of IFRIC 23 Uncertainty over Income Tax Treatments

IFRIC 23 clarifies the accounting for uncertainties in income tax and is effective from 1 January 2019. There has been no impact to our financial statements as a result of the adoption of IFRIC 23.

At the date of authorisation of these financial statements, the following amendments to standards, which have not been applied in these financial statements, were in issue but not yet effective:

— Impact of Interest Rate Benchmark Reform, (Amendments to IFRS 9, IAS 39 and IFRS 7)

Impact of Interest Rate Benchmark Reform

The amendments issued by the IASB, Interest Rate Benchmark Reform (Amendments to IFRS 9, IAS 39 and IFRS 7), are mandatory and are effective from 1 January 2020. They provide relief on specific aspects of pre-replacement issues that impact hedge accounting, whereby entities applying hedge accounting requirements will be able to assume that the interest rate benchmark on which the hedged cash flows and cash flows of the hedging instrument are based are not altered as a result of Interest Rate Benchmark Reform. The Group does not consider that these amendments will have a significant impact on the financial statements as they provide relief for the possible effects of the uncertainty arising from interest rate benchmark reform.

Goodwill and other intangible assets

Intangible assets comprise goodwill, certain acquired separable corporate brand names, acquired customer relationships, acquired proprietary tools and capitalised computer software not integral to a related item of hardware.

Goodwill represents the excess of fair value attributed to investments in businesses or subsidiary undertakings over the fair value of the underlying net assets, including intangible assets, at the date of their acquisition.

Goodwill impairment reviews are undertaken annually or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate a potential impairment. The carrying value of goodwill is compared to the recoverable amount, defined as the higher of fair value less costs to sell and value in use. The net present value of future cash flows is derived from the underlying assets using a projection period of up to five years for each cash-generating unit. After the projection period, a steady growth rate representing an appropriate long-term growth rate for the industry is applied. Any impairment is recognised immediately as an expense and is not subsequently reversed.

Corporate brand names, customer relationships and proprietary tools acquired as part of acquisitions of businesses are capitalised separately from goodwill as intangible assets if their value can be measured reliably on initial recognition and it is probable that the expected future economic benefits that are attributable to the asset will flow to the Group.

Certain corporate brands of the Group are considered to have an indefinite economic life because of the institutional nature of the corporate brand names, their proven ability to maintain market leadership and profitable operations over long periods of time and the Group’s commitment to develop and enhance their value. The carrying value of these intangible assets is reviewed at least annually for impairment and adjusted to the recoverable amount if required.

Amortisation is provided at rates calculated to write off the cost less estimated residual value of each asset on a straight-line basis over its estimated useful life as follows:

• Brand names (with finite lives) – 10-20 years.

• Customer-related intangibles – 3-10 years.

• Other proprietary tools – 3-10 years.

• Other (including capitalised computer software) – 3-5 years.

Contingent consideration

Contingent consideration is accounted for in accordance with IFRS 3 Business Combinations. Contingent

F-7

Accounting policies (continued)

consideration only applies to situations where contingent payments are not dependent on future employment of vendors and any such payments are expensed when they relate to future employment.

Future anticipated payments to vendors in respect of contingent consideration (earnout agreements) are initially recorded at fair value which is the present value of the expected cash outflows of the obligations. The obligations are dependent on the future financial performance of the interests acquired (typically over a four- to five-year period following the year of acquisition) and assume the operating companies improve profits in line with Directors’ estimates. The Directors derive their estimates from internal business plans together with financial due diligence performed in connection with the acquisition.

Subsequent adjustments to the fair value are recorded in the consolidated income statement within revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments.

Property, plant and equipment

Property, plant and equipment are shown at cost less accumulated depreciation and any provision for impairment with the exception of freehold land which is not depreciated. The Group assesses the carrying value of its property, plant and equipment to determine if any impairment has occurred. Where this indicates that an asset may be impaired, the Group applies the requirements of IAS 36 Impairment of Assets in assessing the carrying amount of the asset. This process includes comparing its recoverable amount with its carrying value. Depreciation is provided at rates calculated to write off the cost less estimated residual value of each asset on a straight-line basis over its estimated useful life, as follows:

• Freehold buildings – 50 years.

• Leasehold land and buildings – over the term of the lease or life of the asset, if shorter.

• Fixtures, fittings and equipment – 3-10 years.

• Computer equipment – 3-5 years.

Interests in associates and joint ventures

An associate is an entity over which the Group has significant influence. In certain circumstances, significant influence may be represented by factors other than ownership and voting rights, such as representation on the Board of Directors.

The Group’s share of the profits less losses of associate undertakings net of tax, interest and non-controlling interests is included in the consolidated income statement and the Group’s share of net assets is shown within interests in associates in the consolidated balance sheet. The Group’s share of the profits less losses and net assets is based on current information produced by the undertakings, adjusted to conform with the accounting policies of the Group.

The Group assesses the carrying value of its associate undertakings to determine if any impairment has occurred. Where this indicates that an investment may be impaired, the Group applies the requirements of IAS 36 in assessing the carrying amount of the investment. This process includes comparing its recoverable amount with its carrying value. The recoverable amount is defined as the higher of fair value less costs to sell and value in use.

The Group accounts for joint venture investments under the equity method which is consistent with the Group’s treatment of associates.

Other investments

Certain equity investments are designated as either fair value through other comprehensive income or fair value through profit or loss. Movements in fair value through profit or loss are recorded in the consolidated income statement within revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments. The Group generally elects to classify equity investments as fair value through other comprehensive income where the Group forms a strategic partnership with the investee.

Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations

Under IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations where certain conditions are met, an asset or disposal group that is for sale should be recognised as “held for sale”. An entity should classify a disposal group as held for sale if the carrying amount will be recovered principally through a sale transaction rather than through continuing use. For this to be the case, the disposal group must be available for immediate sale in its present condition subject only to terms that are usual and customary for sales of such assets and its sale must be highly probable. Such assets are measured at the lower of carrying amount and fair value less costs to sell, and are not depreciated or amortised, excluding certain assets that are carried at fair value under IFRS 5. Furthermore, when an associate is classified as held for sale, equity accounting ceases.

A discontinued operation is a component of the entity that has been disposed of or is classified as held for sale and that represents a separate major line of business or geographical area of operations, or is a subsidiary acquired exclusively with a view to resale. The profit or loss from a discontinued operation is shown as a single amount on the

F-8

Accounting policies (continued)

face of the income statement and the comparatives and related notes restated accordingly. This represents total post-tax profit of the disposal group for the whole of the financial year including any post-tax gain or loss on the measurement of fair value less costs to sell, as well as the post-tax loss on sale of the disposal group.

Assets and liabilities classified as held for sale are shown as a separate line on the balance sheet.

Accrued and Deferred Income

Accrued income is a contract asset and is recognised when a performance obligation has been satisfied but has not yet been billed. Contract assets are transferred to receivables when the right to consideration is unconditional and billed per the terms of the contractual agreement.

In certain cases, payments are received from customers or amounts are billed with an unconditional right to receive consideration prior to satisfaction of performance obligations and recognised as deferred income. These balances are considered contract liabilities and are typically related to prepayments for third party expenses that are incurred shortly after billing.

Trade receivables and work in progress

Trade receivables are stated net of provisions for bad and doubtful debts.

Work in progress includes outlays incurred on behalf of clients, including production costs, and other third-party costs that have not yet been billed and are considered receivables under IFRS 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers.

Expected credit losses

The Group has applied the simplified approach to measuring expected credit losses, as permitted by IFRS 9. Therefore the Group does not track changes in credit risk, but recognises a loss allowance based on the financial asset’s lifetime expected credit loss.

Under IFRS 9 Financial Instruments, the expected credit losses are measured as the difference between the asset’s gross carrying amount and the present value of estimated future cash flows discounted at the financial asset’s original effective interest rate. Given the short-term nature of the Group’s trade receivables, work in progress and accrued income, which are mainly due from large national or multinational companies, the Group assessment of expected credit losses includes provisions for specific clients and receivables where the contractual cash flow is deemed at risk. Additional provisions are made based on the assessment of recoverability of aged receivables, where the following criteria are met:

• 100% of the asset aged over 1 year;

• 50% of the asset aged between 180 days and 1 year; and

• sufficient evidence of recoverability is not evident.

Estimated future cash flows represent expectations as at 31 December 2019 and does not consider the impact of the emergence and spread of the Covid-19 virus.

Further details on provisions for bad and doubtful debts are provided in note 18.

Foreign currency and interest rate hedging

The Group’s policy on interest rate and foreign exchange rate management sets out the instruments and methods available to hedge interest and currency risk exposures and the control procedures in place to ensure effectiveness.

The Group uses derivative financial instruments to reduce exposure to foreign exchange risk and interest rate movements. The Group does not hold or issue derivative financial instruments for speculative purposes.

Derivatives are initially recognised at fair value at the date a derivative contract is entered into and are subsequently remeasured to their fair value at each balance sheet date. The resulting gain or loss is recognised in profit or loss immediately unless the derivative is designated and effective as a hedging instrument, in which event the timing of the recognition in profit or loss depends on the nature of the hedge relationship.

At the inception of the hedge relationship the entity documents the relationship between the hedging instrument and hedged item, along with its risk management objectives and its strategy for undertaking various hedge transactions. Furthermore, at the inception of the hedge and on an ongoing basis, the Group documents whether the hedging instrument that is used in a hedging relationship is highly effective in offsetting changes in fair values or cash flows of the hedged item.

Note 27 contains details of the fair values of the derivative instruments used for hedging purposes.

Changes in the fair value of derivatives that are designated and qualify as fair value hedges are recorded in profit or loss immediately, together with any changes in the fair value of the hedged item that is attributable to the hedged risk.

The effective portion of changes in the fair value of derivatives that are designated and qualify as cash flow or net investment hedges is recognised in other comprehensive income and deferred in equity. The gain or loss relating to the ineffective portion is recognised immediately in profit or loss. Amounts deferred in equity are recycled in profit or loss in the periods when the hedged item is recognised in profit or loss. However, when the forecast transaction that is hedged results in the

F-9

Accounting policies (continued)

recognition of a non-financial asset or a non-financial liability, the gains and losses previously deferred in equity are transferred from equity and included in the initial measurement of the cost of the asset or liability.

Hedge accounting is discontinued when the hedging instrument expires or is sold, terminated, or exercised, or no longer qualifies for hedge accounting. At that time, any cumulative gain or loss on the hedging instrument recognised in equity is retained in equity until the forecast transaction occurs. If a hedged transaction is no longer expected to occur, the net cumulative gain or loss recognised in equity is transferred to net profit or loss for the period.

Derivatives embedded in other financial instruments or other host contracts are treated as separate derivatives when their risks and characteristics are not closely related to those of host contracts and the host contracts are not carried at fair value with unrealised gains or losses reported in the consolidated income statement.

Liabilities in respect of option agreements

Option agreements that allow the Group’s equity partners to require the Group to purchase a non-controlling interest are treated as derivatives over equity instruments and are recorded in the consolidated balance sheet initially at the present value of the redemption amount in accordance with IAS 32 Financial Instruments: Presentation and subsequently measured at fair value in accordance with IFRS 9 Financial Instruments. The movement in the fair value is recognised as income or expense within revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments in the consolidated income statement.

Derecognition of financial liabilities

In accordance with IFRS 9 Financial Instruments, a financial liability of the Group is only released to the consolidated income statement when the underlying legal obligation is extinguished.

Debt

Interest-bearing debt is recorded at the proceeds received, net of direct issue costs.

Borrowing costs

Finance costs of borrowing are recognised in the consolidated income statement over the term of those borrowings.

Revenue recognition

The Group is a leading worldwide creative transformation organisation offering national and multinational clients a comprehensive range of communications, experience, commerce and technology services. Contracts often involve multiple agencies offering different services in different countries. As such, the terms of local, regional and global contracts can vary to meet client needs and regulatory requirements. Consistent with the industry, contracts are typically short-term in nature and tend to be cancellable by either party with 90 days notice. The Group is generally entitled to payment for work performed to date.

The Group is generally paid in arrears for its services. Invoices are typically payable within 30 to 60 days. Revenue comprises commissions and fees earned in respect of amounts billed and is stated exclusive of VAT, sales taxes and trade discounts. Pass-through costs comprise fees paid to external suppliers when they are engaged to perform part or all of a specific project and are charged directly to clients, predominantly media and data collection costs. Costs to obtain a contract are typically expensed as incurred as the contracts are generally short-term in nature.

In most instances, promised services in a contract are not considered distinct or represent a series of services that are substantially the same with the same pattern of transfer to the customer and, as such, are accounted for as a single performance obligation. However, where there are contracts with services that are capable of being distinct, are distinct within the context of the contract, and are accounted for as separate performance obligations, revenue is allocated to each of the performance obligations based on relative standalone selling prices.

Revenue is recognised when a performance obligation is satisfied, in accordance with the terms of the contractual arrangement. Typically, performance obligations are satisfied over time as services are rendered. Revenue recognised over time is based on the proportion of the level of service performed. Either an input method or an output method, depending on the particular arrangement, is used to measure progress for each performance obligation. For most fee arrangements, costs incurred are used as an objective input measure of performance. The primary input of substantially all work performed under these arrangements is labour. There is normally a direct relationship between costs incurred and the proportion of the contract performed to date. In other circumstances relevant output measures, such as the achievement of any project milestones stipulated in the contract, are used to assess proportional performance.

For our retainer arrangements, we have a stand ready obligation to perform services on an ongoing basis over the life of the contract. The scope of these arrangements are broad and generally are not reconcilable to another input or output criteria. In these instances, revenue is recognised using a time-based method resulting in straight-line revenue recognition.

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Accounting policies (continued)

The amount of revenue recognised depends on whether we act as an agent or as a principal. Certain arrangements with our clients are such that our responsibility is to arrange for a third party to provide a specified good or service to the client. In these cases we are acting as an agent as we do not control the relevant good or service before it is transferred to the client. When we act as an agent, the revenue recorded is the net amount retained. Costs incurred with external suppliers (such as production costs and media suppliers) are excluded from revenue and recorded as work in progress until billed.

The Group acts as principal when we control the specified good or service prior to transfer. When the Group acts as a principal (such as when supplying in-house production services, events, and branding), the revenue recorded is the gross amount billed. Billings related to out-of-pocket costs such as travel are also recognised at the gross amount billed with a corresponding amount recorded as an expense.

Further details on revenue recognition are detailed by sector below:

Global Integrated Agencies

Revenue is typically derived from integrated product offerings including media placements and creative services. Revenue may consist of various arrangements involving commissions, fees, incentive-based revenue or a combination of the three, as agreed upon with each client. Revenue for commissions on purchased media is typically recognised at the point in time the media is run.

The Group receives volume rebates from certain suppliers for transactions entered into on behalf of clients that, based on the terms of the relevant contracts and local law, are either remitted to clients or retained by the Group. If amounts are passed on to clients they are recorded as liabilities until settled or, if retained by the Group, are recorded as revenue when earned.

Variable incentive-based revenue typically comprises both quantitative and qualitative elements. Incentive compensation is estimated using the most likely amount and is included in revenue up to the amount that is highly probable not to result in a significant reversal of cumulative revenue recognised. The Group recognises incentive revenue as the related performance obligation is satisfied.

Public Relations and Specialist Agencies

Revenue for these services is typically derived from retainer fees and fees for services to be performed subject to specific agreement. Most revenue under these arrangements is earned over time, in accordance with the terms of the contractual arrangement.

Discontinued operations (Data Investment Management)

Revenue for market research services is typically recognised over time based on input measures. For certain performance obligations, output measures such as the percentage of interviews completed, percentage of reports delivered to a client and the achievement of any project milestones stipulated in the contract are used to measure progress.

While most of the studies provided in connection with the Group’s market research contracts are undertaken in response to an individual client’s or group of clients’ specifications, in certain instances a study may be developed as an off-the-shelf product offering sold to a broad client base. For these transactions, revenue is recognised when the product is delivered. When the terms of the transaction provide for licensing the right to access a product on a subscription basis, revenue is recognised over the subscription period, typically on a straight-line basis.

Taxation

Corporate taxes are payable on taxable profits at current rates. The tax expense represents the sum of the tax currently payable and deferred tax.

The Group is subject to corporate taxes in a number of different jurisdictions and judgement is required in determining the appropriate provision for transactions where the ultimate tax determination is uncertain. In such circumstances, the Group recognises liabilities for anticipated taxes based on the best information available and where the anticipated liability is both probable and estimable, liabilities are classified as current. Any interest and penalties accrued are included in corporate income taxes both in the consolidated income statement and balance sheet. Where the final outcome of such matters differs from the amount recorded, any differences may impact the income tax and deferred tax provisions in the period in which the final determination is made.

The tax laws that apply to the Group’s subsidiaries may be amended by the relevant tax authorities. Such potential amendments are regularly monitored and adjustments are made to the Group’s tax liabilities and deferred tax assets and liabilities where necessary.

The tax currently payable is based on taxable profit for the year. Taxable profit differs from net profit as reported in the consolidated income statement because it excludes items of income or expense that are taxable or deductible in other years and it further excludes items that are never taxable or deductible. The Group’s liability for current tax is calculated using tax rates that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the balance sheet date.

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Accounting policies (continued)

Deferred tax is the tax expected to be payable or recoverable on differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities in the financial statements and the corresponding tax bases used in the computation of taxable profit, and is accounted for using the balance sheet liability method. Deferred tax liabilities are recognised for all taxable temporary differences unless specifically excepted by IAS 12 Income Taxes. Deferred tax is charged or credited in the consolidated income statement, except when it relates to items charged or credited to other comprehensive income or directly to equity, in which case the deferred tax is also dealt with in other comprehensive income or equity. Deferred tax assets are recognised to the extent that it is probable that taxable profits will be available against which deductible temporary differences can be utilised, which can require the use of accounting estimation and the exercise of judgement. Such assets and liabilities are not recognised if the temporary difference arises from the initial recognition of goodwill or other assets and liabilities (other than in a business combination) in a transaction that affects neither the taxable profit nor the accounting profit.

The carrying amount of deferred tax assets is reviewed at each balance sheet date and reduced to the extent that it is no longer probable that sufficient taxable profits will be available to allow all or part of the asset to be recovered.

Deferred tax liabilities are recognised for taxable temporary differences arising on investments in subsidiaries and associates, and interests in joint ventures, except where the Group is able to control the reversal of the temporary difference and it is probable that the temporary difference will not reverse in the foreseeable future.

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are offset when there is a legally enforceable right to set off current tax assets against current tax liabilities and when they relate to income taxes levied by the same taxation authority and the Group intends to settle its current tax assets and liabilities on a net basis.

Deferred tax is calculated at the tax rates that are expected to apply in the period when the liability is settled or the asset is realised based on enacted or substantively enacted legislation.

Retirement benefit costs

The Group accounts for retirement benefit costs in accordance with IAS 19 Employee Benefits.

For defined contribution plans, contributions are charged to the consolidated income statement as payable in respect of the accounting period.

For defined benefit plans the amounts charged to operating profit are the current service costs, past service costs, administrative expenses and gains and losses on settlements and curtailments. They are included as part of staff costs. Past service costs are recognised immediately in the consolidated income statement when the related plan amendment occurs. Net interest expense is calculated by applying the discount rate to the recognised overall surplus or deficit in the plan.

Actuarial gains and losses are recognised immediately in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income.

Where defined benefit plans are funded, the assets of the plan are held separately from those of the Group, in separate independently managed funds. Pension plan assets are measured at fair value and liabilities are measured on an actuarial basis using the projected unit method and discounted at a rate equivalent to the current rate of return on a high-quality corporate bond of equivalent currency and term to the plan liabilities. The actuarial valuations are obtained at least triennially and are updated at each balance sheet date.

Recognition of a surplus in a defined benefit plan is limited based on the economic gain the Company is expected to benefit from in the future by means of a refund or reduction in future contributions to the plan, in accordance with IAS 19.

Provisions for liabilities and charges

Provisions comprise liabilities where there is uncertainty about the timing of settlement, but where a reliable estimate can be made of the amount. These include provisions for other property-related liabilities. Also included are other provisions, such as certain long-term employee benefits and legal claims, where the likelihood of settlement is considered probable.

Leases

The Group has adopted IFRS 16 Leases from 1 January 2019. The Group leases most of its offices in cities where it operates. Other lease contracts include office equipment and motor vehicles.

At inception of a contract, the Group assesses whether a contract is, or contains, a lease based on whether the contract conveys the right to control the use of an identified asset for a period of time in exchange for consideration.

The Group recognises a right-of-use asset and a lease liability at the lease commencement date. The right-of-use asset is initially measured based on the initial amount of the lease liability adjusted for any lease payments made at or before the commencement date, plus any initial direct costs incurred, less any lease incentives received. The assets are depreciated over the term of the lease using the straight-line method. The lease term includes periods covered by an option to extend if the Group is reasonably

F-12

Accounting policies (continued)

certain to exercise that option. Right-of-use assets are reviewed for indicators of impairment.

The lease liability is initially measured at the present value of the lease payments that are not paid at the commencement date, discounted using the interest rate implicit in the lease or, if that rate cannot be readily determined, the Group’s incremental borrowing rate for the same term as the underlying lease. Lease payments included in the measurement of lease liabilities comprise fixed payments less any lease incentives receivable and variable lease payments that depend on an index or a rate as at the commencement date. Lease modifications result in remeasurement of the lease liability.

Depreciation is recognised in both costs of services and general and administrative costs and interest expense is recognised under finance costs in the consolidated income statement.

The Group has elected to use the exemption not to recognise right-of-use assets and lease liabilities for short-term leases that have a lease term of 12 months or less and leases of low-value assets (under $5,000). The payments associated with these leases are recognised as cost of services and general and administrative costs on a straight-line basis over the lease term.

In 2018 and 2017 leases were accounted for per IAS 17 Leases. The following policies were applicable:

Finance Leases

Assets held under finance leases are recognised as assets of the Group at the inception of the lease at the lower of their fair value and the present value of the minimum lease payments. Depreciation on leased assets is charged to the consolidated income statement on the same basis as owned assets. Leasing payments are treated as consisting of capital and interest elements and the interest is charged to the consolidated income statement as it is incurred.

Operating Leases

Operating lease rentals are charged to the consolidated income statement on a straight-line basis over the lease term. Any premium or discount on the acquisition of a lease is spread over the life of the lease on a straight-line basis.

Translation of foreign currencies

Foreign currency transactions arising from normal trading activities are recorded at the rates in effect at the date of the transaction. Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies at the year-end are translated at the year-end exchange rate. Foreign currency gains and losses are credited or charged to the consolidated income statement as they arise.

The income statements of foreign subsidiary undertakings are translated into pounds sterling at average exchange rates and the year-end net assets of these companies are translated at year-end exchange rates.

Exchange differences arising from retranslation of the opening net assets and on foreign currency borrowings (to the extent that they hedge the Group’s investment in such operations) are reported in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income.

Goodwill and fair value adjustments arising on the acquisition of a foreign entity are treated as assets and liabilities of the foreign entity and translated at the closing rate.

Hyperinflation in Argentina

During 2019 and 2018, Argentina was designated as a hyperinflationary economy and the financial statements of the Group’s subsidiaries in Argentina have been adjusted for the effects of inflation in accordance with IAS 29 Financial Reporting in Hyperinflationary Economies.

IAS 29 requires that the income statement is adjusted for inflation in the period and translated at the year-end foreign exchange rate and that non-monetary assets and liabilities on the balance sheet are restated to reflect the change in purchasing power caused by inflation from the date of initial recognition. In 2019, this resulted in an increase in goodwill of £41.0 million (2018: £105.8 million) and an increase in other intangibles of £7.1 million (2018: £19.5 million). The impact on other non-monetary assets and liabilities and the impact on the Group’s income statement in the year were immaterial.

Share-based payments

The Group issues equity-settled share-based payments (including share options) to certain employees and accounts for these awards in accordance with IFRS 2 Share-Based Payment. Equity-settled share-based payments are measured at fair value (excluding the effect of non-market-based vesting conditions) at the date of grant. Details regarding the fair value of equity settled share-based transactions are set out in notes 23 and 28.

The fair value determined at the grant date is recognised in the consolidated income statement as an expense on a straight-line basis over the relevant vesting period, based on the Group’s estimate of the number of shares that will ultimately vest and adjusted for the effect of non-market-based vesting conditions.

F-13

Accounting policies (continued)

Critical judgements and estimation uncertainty in applying accounting policies

Management is required to make key decisions and judgements whilst acknowledging there is estimation uncertainty in the process of applying the Group’s accounting policies. These estimates and judgements are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Where judgement has been applied or estimation uncertainty exists, the key factors taken into consideration are disclosed in the accounting policies and the appropriate note in these financial statements.

The most significant areas of estimation uncertainty include:

• Goodwill: The discounted cash flow methodology employed by the Group when testing for goodwill impairment requires estimates regarding revenue growth, operating margins, discount rates and working capital requirements. Further details of the methodology, discount rates, long-term growth rates and estimates used in relation to the goodwill impairment are set out in note 14.

• Payments due to vendors (earnout agreements) and liabilities in respect of put options: Estimates are required regarding growth rates in deriving future financial performance and discount rates to be applied when measuring the liabilities for earnouts and put options. Further details on growth rates and discount rates and the sensitivity to these estimates are set out in note 27.

• Provision for post-employment benefits: Estimates are required in the accounting for defined benefit pension plans, including establishing discount rates, rates of increase in salaries and pensions in payment, inflation and mortality assumptions. These estimates are made by management based on the advice of qualified advisors. Details of the assumptions used and the sensitivity of the benefit obligation to these assumptions are set out in note 24.

• Deferred consideration on the Kantar disposal: as per the terms of the Kantar disposal, deferred consideration consisted of amounts expected to be received in future periods on satisfaction of certain conditions and the deferral of consideration against services to be provided to Kantar in the future, as detailed in note 12. Estimates are required in determining amounts to be received and the value of services to be provided, taking into account uncertainty in the ultimate timing and resolution of each of these. The sensitivity to these estimates is specific to each individual circumstance and no individual estimate is expected to result in a material change to the amount.

• Taxation: Estimates are required in determining whether a provision is required and, the amount of taxes that will be due, particularly given the many countries in which the Group operates. Where the final tax outcome is different from the amounts recorded then such differences may expose the Group to additional tax liabilities or impact the carrying value of deferred tax assets, which would affect the future tax charge. Further details on the tax charge, corporate income tax payable and deferred tax balances are set out in the income statement, balance sheet and notes 7 and 17.

The most significant areas of judgements include:

• Revenue recognition: Judgement is required regarding the timing of recognition, particularly in relation to media volume income with regards to whether it is required to be passed back to the client and in assessing progress on performance obligations where revenue is recognised over time. Further details are set out in the accounting policy.

• Non-current assets held for sale and discontinued operations: Judgement is required in determining the timing of classification of the Group’s Kantar business as held for sale, particularly with the timing of the held for sale classification. Further details are set out in note 12.

F-14

Consolidated income statement

For the years ended 31 December 2019, 2018, 2017

	Notes		20191 £m			20181,2 £m			20171,2 £m
Continuing operations
Revenue		2		13,234.1			13,046.7			13,146.4
Costs of services		3		(10,825.1	)		(10,559.1	)		(10,481.6	)
Gross profit				2,409.0			2,487.6			2,664.8
General and administrative costs		3		(1,113.1	)		(1,242.3	)		(1,086.9	)
Operating profit				1,295.9			1,245.3			1,577.9
Share of results of associates		4		14.7			30.5			98.0
Profit before interest and taxation				1,310.6			1,275.8			1,675.9
Finance and investment income		6		99.0			98.9			89.0
Finance costs		6		(359.1	)		(279.1	)		(261.9	)
Revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments		6		163.8			(76.3	)		391.0
Profit before taxation				1,214.3			1,019.3			1,894.0
Taxation		7		(275.0	)		(256.0	)		(83.0	)
Profit for the year from continuing operations				939.3			763.3			1,811.0
Discontinued operations
Profit for the year from discontinued operations		12		10.8			137.8			248.4
Profit for the year				950.1			901.1			2,059.4
Attributable to
Equity holders of the parent:
Continuing operations				860.1			698.2			1,726.6
Discontinued operations				(3.8	)		126.4			237.1
				856.3			824.6			1,963.7
Non-controlling interests:
Continuing operations				79.2			65.1			84.4
Discontinued operations				14.6			11.4			11.3
				93.8			76.5			95.7
				950.1			901.1			2,059.4
Earnings per share from continuing and discontinued operations
Basic earnings per ordinary share		9		68.5p			66.1p			155.7p
Diluted earnings per ordinary share		9		67.9p			65.4p			153.9p
Earnings per share from continuing operations
Basic earnings per ordinary share		9		68.8p			56.0p			136.9p
Diluted earnings per ordinary share		9		68.2p			55.4p			135.3p

Notes

The accounting policies on page F-5 to F-14 and the accompanying notes on pages F-20 to F-45 form an integral part of this consolidated income statement.

¹ Figures have been restated as described in the accounting policies.

² Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies.

F-15

Consolidated statement of comprehensive income

For the years ended 31 December 2019, 2018, 2017

	20191 £m			20181 £m			20171 £m
Profit for the year		950.1			901.1			2,059.4
Items that may be reclassified subsequently to profit or loss
Exchange adjustments on foreign currency net investments		(625.1	)		284.0			(659.8	)
Exchange adjustments recycled to the income statement on disposal of discontinued operations		(284.0	)		–			–
Gain on revaluation of available for sale investments		–			–			32.1
		(909.1	)		284.0			(627.7	)
Items that will not be reclassified subsequently to profit or loss
Actuarial (loss)/gain on defined benefit pension plans		(36.6	)		8.9			17.0
Deferred tax on defined benefit pension plans		6.4			(0.7	)		(24.6	)
Movements on equity investments held at fair value through other comprehensive income		(141.4	)		(247.9	)		–
		(171.6	)		(239.7	)		(7.6	)
Other comprehensive (loss)/income for the year		(1,080.7	)		44.3			(635.3	)
Total comprehensive (loss)/income for the year		(130.6	)		945.4			1,424.1
Attributable to
Equity holders of the parent:
Continuing operations		180.0			697.7			1,205.4
Discontinued operations		(386.4	)		162.2			142.7
		(206.4	)		859.9			1,348.1
Non-controlling interests:
Continuing operations		61.9			73.8			65.2
Discontinued operations		13.9			11.7			10.8
		75.8			85.5			76.0
		(130.6	)		945.4			1,424.1

Notes

The accounting policies on pages F-5 to F-14 and the accompanying notes on pages F-20 to F-45 form an integral part of this consolidated statement of comprehensive income.

¹ Figures have been restated as described in the accounting policies.

F-16

Consolidated cash flow statement

For the years ended 31 December 2019, 2018, 2017

	Notes		2019 £m			2018 £m			2017 £m
Net cash inflow from operating activities		11		1,850.5			1,693.8			1,408.1
Investing activities
Acquisitions		11		(161.3	)		(283.7	)		(477.5	)
Disposal of investments and subsidiaries		11		2,141.0			833.9			296.0
Purchases of property, plant and equipment				(339.3	)		(314.8	)		(288.9	)
Purchases of other intangible assets (including capitalised computer software)				(54.8	)		(60.4	)		(37.3	)
Proceeds on disposal of property, plant and equipment				174.0			9.5			8.0
Net cash inflow/(outflow) from investing activities				1,759.6			184.5			(499.7	)
Financing activities
Repayment of lease liabilities				(249.8	)		–			–
Share option proceeds				0.6			1.2			6.4
Cash consideration for non-controlling interests		11		(62.7	)		(109.9	)		(47.3	)
Share repurchases and buybacks		11		(43.8	)		(207.1	)		(504.2	)
Net (decrease)/increase in borrowings		11		(1,713.2	)		(440.6	)		599.6
Financing and share issue costs				(6.4	)		(3.8	)		(0.8	)
Equity dividends paid				(750.5	)		(747.4	)		(751.5	)
Dividends paid to non-controlling interests in subsidiary undertakings				(96.2	)		(106.2	)		(87.8	)
Net cash outflow from financing activities				(2,922.0	)		(1,613.8	)		(785.6	)
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents				688.1			264.5			122.8
Translation of cash and cash equivalents				(89.7	)		(61.5	)		(27.2	)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year				2,201.2			1,998.2			1,902.6
Cash and cash equivalents including cash held in disposal group at end of year				2,799.6			2,201.2			1,998.2
Cash and cash equivalents held in disposal group presented as held for sale				(66.3	)		–			–
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year		11		2,733.3			2,201.2			1,998.2

Note

The accounting policies on pages F-5 to F-14 and the accompanying notes on pages F-20 to F-45 form an integral part of this consolidated cash flow statement.

F-17

Consolidated balance sheet

At 31 December 2019, 2018, 2017

	Notes		20191 £m			20181 £m			20171 £m
Non-current assets
Intangible assets:
Goodwill		14		10,110.6			13,132.6			12,874.6
Other		14		1,468.8			1,842.0			2,018.4
Property, plant and equipment		15		876.0			1,083.0			979.5
Right-of-use assets		13		1,734.5			–			–
Interests in associates and joint ventures		16		813.0			796.8			1,065.2
Other investments		16		498.3			666.7			1,153.5
Deferred tax assets		17		187.9			153.0			160.3
Trade and other receivables		18		137.6			180.0			176.2
				15,826.7			17,854.1			18,427.7
Current assets
Corporate income tax recoverable				165.4			198.7			234.7
Trade and other receivables		18		11,822.3			13,101.5			12,530.7
Cash and short-term deposits1				11,305.7			11,065.8			11,851.0
				23,293.4			24,366.0			24,616.4
Assets classified as held for sale		12		485.3			–			–
				23,778.7			24,366.0			24,616.4
Current liabilities
Trade and other payables		19		(14,188.1	)		(15,021.9	)		(14,239.5	)
Corporate income tax payable				(499.9	)		(545.9	)		(649.3	)
Short-term lease liabilities		13		(302.2	)		–			–
Bank overdrafts, bonds and bank loans		21		(8,798.0	)		(9,447.7	)		(10,083.7	)
				(23,788.2	)		(25,015.5	)		(24,972.5	)
Liabilities associated with assets classified as held for sale		12		(170.4	)		–			–
				(23,958.6	)		(25,015.5	)		(24,972.5	)
Net current liabilities				(179.9	)		(649.5	)		(356.1	)
Total assets less current liabilities				15,646.8			17,204.6			18,071.6
Non-current liabilities
Bonds and bank loans		21		(4,047.3	)		(5,634.8	)		(6,250.4	)
Trade and other payables		20		(449.6	)		(810.0	)		(911.7	)
Deferred tax liabilities		17		(379.8	)		(479.5	)		(513.7	)
Provision for post-employment benefits		24		(159.0	)		(184.3	)		(206.3	)
Provisions for liabilities and charges		22		(247.8	)		(311.7	)		(229.0	)
Long-term lease liabilities		13		(1,947.5	)		–			–
				(7,231.0	)		(7,420.3	)		(8,111.1	)
Net assets				8,415.8			9,784.3			9,960.5
Equity
Called-up share capital		28		132.8			133.3			133.3
Share premium account				570.3			569.7			568.5
Other reserves		29		(169.9	)		962.4			1,119.1
Own shares				(1,178.7	)		(1,255.7	)		(1,171.1	)
Retained earnings				8,689.9			8,950.2			8,841.9
Equity shareholders’ funds				8,044.4			9,359.9			9,491.7
Non-controlling interests				371.4			424.4			468.8
Total equity				8,415.8			9,784.3			9,960.5

Notes

The accounting policies on page F-5 to F-14 and the accompanying notes on pages F-20 to F-45 form an integral part of this consolidated balance sheet.

¹ Figures have been restated as described in the accounting policies.

F-18

Consolidated statement of changes in equity

For the years ended 31 December 2019, 2018, 2017

	Called- up share capital £m			Share premium account £m		Other reserves1 £m			Own shares £m			Retained earnings1 £m			Total equity shareholders’ funds1 £m			Non- controlling interests £m			Total1 £m
Restated balance at 1 January 2017		133.2			562.2		1,735.8			(962.0	)		7,899.9			9,369.1			443.1			9,812.2
Ordinary shares issued		0.1			6.3		–			–			–			6.4			–			6.4
Treasury share additions		–			–		–			(289.6	)		–			(289.6	)		–			(289.6	)
Treasury share allocations		–			–		–			112.2			(112.2	)		–			–			–
Profit for the year		–			–		–			–			1,963.7			1,963.7			95.7			2,059.4
Exchange adjustments on foreign currency net investments		–			–		(640.1	)		–			–			(640.1	)		(19.7	)		(659.8	)
Gain on revaluation of available for sale investments		–			–		32.1			–			–			32.1			–			32.1
Actuarial gain on defined benefit pension plans		–			–		–			–			17.0			17.0			–			17.0
Deferred tax on defined benefit pension plans		–			–		–			–			(24.6	)		(24.6	)		–			(24.6	)
Other comprehensive loss		–			–		(608.0	)		–			(7.6	)		(615.6	)		(19.7	)		(635.3	)
Total comprehensive (loss)/income		–			–		(608.0	)		–			1,956.1			1,348.1			76.0			1,424.1
Dividends paid		–			–		–			–			(751.5	)		(751.5	)		(87.8	)		(839.3	)
Non-cash share-based incentive plans (including share options)		–			–		–			–			105.0			105.0			–			105.0
Tax adjustment on share-based payments		–			–		–			–			3.0			3.0			–			3.0
Net movement in own shares held by ESOP Trusts		–			–		–			(31.7	)		(182.9	)		(214.6	)		–			(214.6	)
Recognition/remeasurement of financial instruments		–			–		(8.7	)		–			(11.7	)		(20.4	)		–			(20.4	)
Acquisition of subsidiaries2		–			–		–			–			(63.8	)		(63.8	)		37.5			(26.3	)
Balance at 31 December 2017		133.3			568.5		1,119.1			(1,171.1	)		8,841.9			9,491.7			468.8			9,960.5
Accounting policy change (IFRS 9)		–			–		(407.4	)		–			407.4			–			–			–
Restated balance at 1 January 2018		133.3			568.5		711.7			(1,171.1	)		9,249.3			9,491.7			468.8			9,960.5
Ordinary shares issued		–			1.2		–			–			–			1.2			–			1.2
Treasury share additions		–			–		–			(104.3	)		–			(104.3	)		–			(104.3	)
Treasury share allocations		–			–		–			1.5			(1.5	)		–			–			–
Profit for the year		–			–		–			–			824.6			824.6			76.5			901.1
Exchange adjustments on foreign currency net investments		–			–		275.0			–			–			275.0			9.0			284.0
Movements on equity investments held at fair value through other comprehensive income		–			–		–			–			(247.9	)		(247.9	)		–			(247.9	)
Actuarial gain on defined benefit pension plans		–			–		–			–			8.9			8.9			–			8.9
Deferred tax on defined benefit pension plans		–			–		–			–			(0.7	)		(0.7	)		–			(0.7	)
Other comprehensive income/(loss)		–			–		275.0			–			(239.7	)		35.3			9.0			44.3
Total comprehensive income		–			–		275.0			–			584.9			859.9			85.5			945.4
Dividends paid		–			–		–			–			(747.4	)		(747.4	)		(106.2	)		(853.6	)
Non-cash share-based incentive plans (including share options)		–			–		–			–			84.8			84.8			–			84.8
Tax adjustment on share-based payments		–			–		–			–			(1.2	)		(1.2	)		–			(1.2	)
Net movement in own shares held by ESOP Trusts		–			–		–			18.2			(121.0	)		(102.8	)		–			(102.8	)
Recognition/remeasurement of financial instruments		–			–		(24.3	)		–			10.4			(13.9	)		–			(13.9	)
Acquisition of subsidiaries3		–			–		–			–			(108.1	)		(108.1	)		(23.7	)		(131.8	)
Balance at 31 December 2018		133.3			569.7		962.4			(1,255.7	)		8,950.2			9,359.9			424.4			9,784.3
Accounting policy change (IFRS 16)4		–			–		–			–			(128.9	)		(128.9	)		–			(128.9	)
Deferred tax on accounting policy change (IFRS 16)4		–			–		–			–			27.8			27.8			–			27.8
Restated balance at 1 January 2019		133.3			569.7		962.4			(1,255.7	)		8,849.1			9,258.8			424.4			9,683.2
Ordinary shares issued		–			0.6		–			–			–			0.6			–			0.6
Share cancellations		(0.5	)		–		0.5			–			(47.7	)		(47.7	)		–			(47.7	)
Treasury share allocations		–			–		–			1.0			(1.0	)		–			–			–
Profit for the year		–			–		–			–			856.3			856.3			93.8			950.1
Exchange adjustments on foreign currency net investments		–			–		(607.1	)		–			–			(607.1	)		(18.0	)		(625.1	)
Exchange adjustments recycled to the income statement on disposal of discontinued operations		–			–		(284.0	)		–			–			(284.0	)		–			(284.0	)
Movements on equity investments held at fair value through other comprehensive income		–			–		–			–			(141.4	)		(141.4	)		–			(141.4	)
Actuarial loss on defined benefit pension plans		–			–		–			–			(36.6	)		(36.6	)		–			(36.6	)
Deferred tax on defined benefit pension plans		–			–		–			–			6.4			6.4			–			6.4
Other comprehensive loss		–			–		(891.1	)		–			(171.6	)		(1,062.7	)		(18.0	)		(1,080.7	)
Total comprehensive (loss)/income		–			–		(891.1	)		–			684.7			(206.4	)		75.8			(130.6	)
Dividends paid		–			–		–			–			(750.5	)		(750.5	)		(96.2	)		(846.7	)
Non-cash share-based incentive plans (including share options)		–			–		–			–			71.4			71.4			–			71.4
Tax adjustment on share-based payments		–			–		–			–			3.1			3.1			–			3.1
Net movement in own shares held by ESOP Trusts		–			–		–			76.0			(76.0	)		–			–			–
Recognition/remeasurement of financial instruments		–			–		10.6			–			13.1			23.7			–			23.7
Share purchases – close period commitments5		–			–		(252.3	)		–			–			(252.3	)		–			(252.3	)
Acquisition of subsidiaries3		–			–		–			–			(56.3	)		(56.3	)		(32.6	)		(88.9	)
Restated balance at 31 December 2019		132.8			570.3		(169.9	)		(1,178.7	)		8,689.9			8,044.4			371.4			8,415.8

Notes

The accounting policies on pages F-5 to F-14 and the accompanying notes on pages F-20 to F-45 form integral part of this consolidated statement of changes in equity.

¹ Figures have been restated as described in the accounting policies.

² Other reserves are analysed in note 29.

³ Acquisition of subsidiaries represents movements in retained earnings and non-controlling interests arising from changes in ownership of existing subsidiaries and recognition of non-controlling interests on new acquisitions.

⁴ The impact of the adoption of IFRS 16 Leases from 1 January 2019 is described in the accounting policies.

⁵ During 2019, the Company entered into an arrangement with a third party to conduct share buybacks on its behalf in the close period commencing on 2 January 2020 and ending on 27 February 2020, in accordance with UK listing rules. The commitment resulting from this agreement constitutes a liability at 31 December 2019, which is included in Trade and other payables: amounts falling due within one year and has been recognised as a movement in equity.

F-19

Notes to the consolidated financial statements

1. General information

WPP plc is a company incorporated in Jersey. The address of the registered office is Queensway House, Hilgrove Street, St Helier, Jersey, JE1 1ES and the address of the principal executive office is Sea Containers, 18 Upper Ground, London, United Kingdom, SE1 9GL. The nature of the Group’s operations and its principal activities are set out in note 2. These consolidated financial statements are presented in pounds sterling.

2. Segment information

The Group is a leading worldwide creative transformation organisation offering national and multinational clients a comprehensive range of communications, experience, commerce and technology services. Substantially all of the Group’s revenue is from contracts with customers.

Recent restructuring actions, including the mergers of VMLY&R and Wunderman Thompson, the One Ogilvy strategy and the reorganisation of our specialist healthcare agencies, mean that certain units have been reclassified between the previously reported sectors. In order to take account of these changes, the internal reporting of the Group used by the Chief Executive Officer (the Chief Operating Decision Maker) to review performance and allocate resources has also changed. The Group has therefore reassessed its segment information under IFRS 8 Operating Segments. In assessing the Group’s reportable segments, the Directors have considered the similar economic characteristics of certain operating segments, their shared client base and the similar nature of their products or services, amongst other factors. As a result, the Group is now organised into three reportable segments – Global Integrated Agencies; Public Relations; and Specialist Agencies. The Data Investment Management segment is now excluded from the segment analysis as it is classified as discontinued operations. Comparatives have been restated.

Reportable segments

Reported contributions were as follows:

Continuing operations – Income statement	Revenue1		Revenue less pass-through costs2		Headline operating profit3		Headline operating profit margin4
	£m		£m		£m
2019
Global Integrated Agencies5		10,205.2		8,108.1		1,219.5		15.0%
Public Relations6		956.5		898.0		140.6		15.7%
Specialist Agencies7		2,072.4		1,840.4		200.5		10.9%
		13,234.1				1,560.6
20188
Global Integrated Agencies5		9,930.7		8,070.8		1,228.2		15.2%
Public Relations6		931.7		879.9		139.2		15.8%
Specialist Agencies7		2,184.3		1,925.0		283.8		14.7%
		13,046.7				1,651.2
20178
Global Integrated Agencies5		10,028.6		8,315.5		1,321.3		15.9%
Public Relations6		915.0		864.3		123.5		14.3%
Specialist Agencies7		2,202.8		1,964.3		348.3		17.7%
		13,146.4				1,793.1

Notes

¹  Intersegment sales have not been separately disclosed as they are not material.

²  Revenue less pass-through costs is revenue less media, data collection and other pass-through costs. Pass-through costs comprise fees paid to external suppliers where they are engaged to perform part or all of a specific project and are changed directly to clients, predominantly media and data collection costs. See note 3 to the consolidated financial statements for more details of the pass-through costs.

³  A reconciliation from operating profit to headline operating profit is provided in note 32.

⁴  Headline operating profit margin is calculated as headline operating profit (defined above) as a percentage of revenue less pass-through costs.

⁵  Global Integrated Agencies includes all of Grey, GroupM, Hogarth, Ogilvy, VMLY&R and Wunderman Thompson.

⁶  Public Relations represents the Group’s specialists in this area and remains as previously reported but excludes Ogilvy PR which now sits within Global Integrated Agencies as part of Ogilvy.

⁷  Specialist Agencies represent the Group’s other agencies that specialise in certain areas, whether by region or range of services.

⁸  Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies. As a result Data Investment Management is now excluded from the segment analysis.

F-20

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

2. Segment information (continued)

Continuing operations – Other information	Share-based payments		Capital additions1		Depreciation and amortisation2		Goodwill impairment3		Share of results of associates			Interests in associates and joint ventures
	£m		£m		£m		£m		£m			£m
2019
Global Integrated Agencies		54.3		265.6		392.8		4.8		17.0			164.2
Public Relations		4.6		17.5		31.5		–		(0.3	)		5.5
Specialist Agencies4		7.1		46.7		84.0		42.9		(2.0	)		643.3
		66.0		329.8		508.3		47.7		14.7			813.0
20185
Global Integrated Agencies		59.5		255.6		159.1		142.8		25.4			175.1
Public Relations		7.1		12.5		10.8		–		1.3			6.2
Specialist Agencies4		11.7		45.9		39.4		33.7		3.8			615.5
		78.3		314.0		209.3		176.5		30.5			796.8
20175
Global Integrated Agencies		77.8		214.3		157.1		–		16.2			179.9
Public Relations		7.2		9.5		9.8		7.5		0.9			5.6
Specialist Agencies4		13.3		47.2		42.2		19.6		80.9			879.7
		98.3		271.0		209.1		27.1		98.0			1,065.2

Notes

¹  Capital additions include purchases of property, plant and equipment and other intangible assets (including capitalised computer software).

²  Depreciation of property, plant and equipment, depreciation of right-of-use assets and amortisation of other intangible assets.

³  Goodwill impairment figures in 2018 have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

⁴  Specialist Agencies includes the Kantar associate and amounts previously reported under the Data Investment Management segment.

⁵  Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies.

F-21

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

2. Segment information (continued)

Contributions by geographical area were as follows:

Continuing operations	2019 £m		20181 £m		20171 £m
Revenue2
North America3		4,854.7		4,851.7		5,083.5
United Kingdom		1,797.1		1,785.6		1,737.4
Western Continental Europe		2,628.8		2,589.6		2,455.7
Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe		3,953.5		3,819.8		3,869.8
		13,234.1		13,046.7		13,146.4
Revenue less pass-through costs4
North America3		4,034.3		4,059.7		4,335.2
United Kingdom		1,390.1		1,393.8		1,390.0
Western Continental Europe		2,176.4		2,182.9		2,063.7
Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe		3,245.7		3,239.3		3,355.0
Headline operating profit5
North America3		662.0		710.6		816.3
United Kingdom		188.5		179.6		218.1
Western Continental Europe		261.5		289.4		249.8
Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe		448.6		471.6		508.9
		1,560.6		1,651.2		1,793.1
Headline operating profit margin6	Margin		Margin1		Margin1
North America		16.4%		17.5%		18.8%
United Kingdom		13.6%		12.9%		15.7%
Western Continental Europe		12.0%		13.3%		12.1%
Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe		13.8%		14.6%		15.2%

Notes

¹  Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies.

²  Intersegment sales have not been separately disclosed as they are not material.

³  North America includes the US with revenue of £4,576.5 million (2018: £4,576.1 million, 2017: £4,782.0 million), revenue less pass-through costs of £3,806.3 million (2018: £3,836.0 million, 2017: £4,089.9 million) and headline operating profit of £620.6 million (2018: £674.4 million, 2017: £773.5 million).

⁴  Revenue less pass-through costs is revenue less media, data collection and other pass-through costs. Pass-through costs comprise fees paid to external suppliers where they are engaged to perform part or all of a specific project and are changed directly to clients, predominantly media and data collection costs. See note 3 to the consolidated financial statements for more details of the pass-through costs.

⁵  A reconciliation from operating profit to headline operating profit is provided in note 32.

⁶  Headline operating profit margin is calculated as headline operating profit (defined above) as a percentage of revenue less pass-through costs.

Continuing operations	2019 £m		2018 £m
Non-current assets1
North America2		6,812.6		7,247.0
United Kingdom		1,743.3		2,067.9
Western Continental Europe		3,417.2		4,371.9
Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe		3,665.7		4,005.9
		15,638.8		17,692.7

Notes

¹  Non-current assets excluding financial instruments and deferred tax.

²  North America includes the United States with non-current assets of £6,354.7 million (2018: £6,770.6 million).

3. Costs of services and general and administrative costs

Continuing operations	2019 £m			20181 £m			20171 £m
Costs of services		10,825.1			10,559.1			10,481.6
General and administrative costs		1,113.1			1,242.3			1,086.9
		11,938.2			11,801.4			11,568.5
Costs of services and general and administrative costs include:
Continuing operations	2019 £m			20181 £m			20171 £m
Staff costs (note 5)		7,090.6			6,950.6			7,065.1
Establishment costs		672.9			756.6			769.5
Media pass-through costs		1,656.2			1,458.0			1,429.4
Other costs of services and general and administrative costs2		2,518.5			2,636.2			2,304.5
		11,938.2			11,801.4			11,568.5
Other costs of services and general and administrative costs include:
Continuing operations	2019 £m			20181 £m			20171 £m
Goodwill impairment (note 14)3		47.7			176.5			27.1
Investment write-downs		7.5			2.0			91.7
Restructuring and transformation costs		153.5			265.5			56.8
Litigation settlement		(16.8	)		–			–
Gain on sale of freehold property in New York		(7.9	)		–			–
Amortisation and impairment of acquired intangible assets		121.5			201.8			138.0
Amortisation of other intangible assets		21.2			20.7			20.1
Depreciation of property, plant and equipment		185.5			188.6			189.0
Depreciation of right-of-use assets		301.6			–			–
Losses on sale of property, plant and equipment		3.2			0.6			1.2
Gains on disposal of investments and subsidiaries		(40.4	)		(237.9	)		(98.7	)
(Gains)/losses on remeasurement of equity interests arising from a change in scope of ownership		(0.4	)		(2.0	)		0.3
Net foreign exchange losses/(gains)		6.1			(13.0	)		8.0
Short-term lease expense		83.8			–			–
Low-value lease expense		2.9			–			–

Notes

¹  Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies.

²  Other costs of services and general and administrative costs include £731.4 million (2018: £713.0 million, 2017: £573.1 million) of other pass-through costs.

³  Figures in 2018 have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

In 2019, operating profit includes credits totalling £26.9 million (2018: £25.6 million, 2017: £40.9 million) relating to the release of excess provisions and other balances established in respect of acquisitions completed prior to 2018. Further details of the Group’s approach to acquisition reserves, as required by IFRS 3 Business Combinations, are given in note 30.

Amortisation and impairment of acquired intangibles in 2019 includes an impairment charge in the year of £26.5 million (2018: £89.1 million, 2017: £6.0 million) in regard to certain brand names that are no longer in use and customer relationships where the underlying clients have been lost.

In 2019, the goodwill impairment charge of £47.7 million (2018: £176.5 million, 2017: £27.1 million) relates to a number of under-performing businesses in the Group. In certain markets, the impact of current, local economic conditions and trading circumstances on these businesses is sufficiently severe to indicate impairment to the carrying value of goodwill. In 2018, the goodwill impairment charge primarily relates to a charge of £142.8 million on VMLY&R.

Investment write-downs of £91.7 million in 2017 include £53.1 million in relation to comScore Inc., which had not released any financial statements in relation to its 2015, 2016 or 2017 results due to an internal investigation by their Audit Committee. In 2017, the market value of comScore Inc. fell below the Group’s carrying value. Other investment write-downs relate to certain non-core minority investments in the United States where forecast financial performance and/or liquidity issues indicate a permanent decline in the recoverability of the Group’s investment.

F-22

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

3. Costs of services and general and administrative costs (continued)

Gains on disposal of investments and subsidiaries of £40.4 million in 2019 include a gain of £28.6 million on the disposal of the Group’s interest in Chime. Gains on disposal of investments and subsidiaries of £237.9 million in 2018 include a gain of £185.3 million on the disposal of the Group’s interest in Globant S.A. Gains in 2017 of £98.7 million include £92.3 million on the sale of the Group’s interest in Asatsu-DK Inc. following its acquisition by Bain Capital.

In 2019, restructuring and transformation costs of £153.5 million comprise £116.3 million of restructuring costs and £37.2 million transformation costs with respect to strategic initiatives including co-locations in major cities, IT transformation and shared services. Restructuring and transformation costs of £121.1 million are in relation to the continuing restructuring plan, first outlined at the Investor Day in December 2018. As part of that plan, restructuring actions have been taken to right-size under-performing businesses, address high cost severance markets and simplify operational structures. Further restructuring and transformation costs will be incurred in 2020 and 2021. The remaining £32.4 million primarily comprises transformation costs in relation to the continuing global IT transformation programme.

In 2018, restructuring and transformation costs of £265.5 million comprise £179.7 million of restructuring costs and £85.8 million transformation costs with respect to strategic initiatives including co-locations in major cities, IT transformation and shared services. In the fourth quarter of 2018, £212.3 million of restructuring and transformation costs were incurred in relation to the strategic review of the Group’s operations. The remaining £53.2 million primarily relates to restructuring costs recorded in the first half of 2018 and transformation costs in relation to the IT transformation programme.

In 2017, restructuring and transformation costs of £56.8 million predominantly comprise £33.7 million of severance costs arising from a structural assessment of certain of the Group’s operations, primarily in the mature markets; and £12.8 million of costs resulting from the project to transform and rationalise the Group’s IT services and infrastructure including costs relating to the cyber attack in June 2017.

In 2019, the Group received £16.8 million in settlement of a class action lawsuit against Comscore Inc. for providing materially false and misleading information regarding their company and its financial performance.

In March 2019, the Group entered into a sale and leaseback agreement for its office space at 3 Columbus Circle in New York. The Group sold the freehold for proceeds of £159.0 million and simultaneously entered into a 15-year lease. The net gain recognised from the sale and leaseback is £7.9 million.

Auditors’ remuneration:

	2019 £m		2018 £m			2017 £m
Fees payable to the Company’s auditors for the audit of the Company’s annual accounts		1.5		1.4			1.4
The audit of the Company’s subsidiaries pursuant to legislation		28.0		25.2	1		20.7
Other services pursuant to legislation		5.0		4.2			4.0
Fees payable to the auditors pursuant to legislation		34.5		30.8			26.1
Tax advisory services		–		–			0.1
Tax compliance services		–		0.1			0.1
Other services1		8.2		4.7			4.6
Total non-audit fees		8.2		4.8			4.8
Total fees		42.7		35.6			30.9

Note

¹  Includes a true-up of £3.5 million.

²  Other services include audits for earnout purposes.

4. Share of results of associates

Share of results of associates include:

Continuing operations	20191 £m			20182 £m			20172 £m
Share of profit before interest and taxation		99.2			110.8			129.7
Share of exceptional (losses)/gains		(47.8	)		(41.5	)		0.6
Share of interest and non-controlling interests		(19.4	)		(15.1	)		(12.6	)
Share of taxation		(17.3	)		(23.7	)		(19.7	)
		14.7			30.5			98.0

Notes

¹  From 5 December 2019 approximately 90% of the Kantar business is treated as a 40% associate following the completion of the transaction outlined in note 12.

²  Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies.

5. Our people

Our staff numbers, including the Kantar disposal group, averaged 132,823 for the year ended 31 December 2019 against 133,903 in 2018 and 134,428 in 2017. Their geographical distribution was as follows:

	2019		2018		2017
North America		25,008		25,990		27,399
United Kingdom		14,192		14,331		14,197
Western Continental Europe		26,973		26,825		25,700
Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe		66,650		66,757		67,132
		132,823		133,903		134,428

Their reportable segment distribution was as follows:

	2019		2018		2017
Global Integrated Agencies		82,295		83,015		81,537
Data Investment Management		26,325		27,813		28,014
Public Relations		6,890		6,891		6,899
Specialist Agencies		17,313		16,184		17,978
		132,823		133,903		134,428

At the end of 2019, staff numbers were 106,786 (2018: 134,281, 2017: 134,413).

Staff costs include:

Continuing operations	2019 £m		20181 £m		20171 £m
Wages and salaries		4,946.2		4,828.0		4,937.5
Cash-based incentive plans		227.6		233.0		196.5
Share-based incentive plans		66.0		78.3		98.3
Social security costs		591.7		579.0		580.8
Pension costs		169.7		160.9		161.3
Severance		42.6		30.0		36.8
Other staff costs2		1,046.8		1,041.4		1,053.9
		7,090.6		6,950.6		7,065.1

Notes

¹  Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies.

²  Freelance and temporary staff costs are included in other staff costs.

Included above are charges of £2.0 million, excluding revision to prior year awards, (2018: £2.0 million, 2017: £12.3 million) for share-based incentive plans in respect of key management personnel (who comprise the Directors of the Group). Total compensation received by key management personnel in respect of 2019 was £4.7 million (2018: £6.2 million, 2017: £17.8 million) of which £0.4 million (2018: £0.4 million, 2017: £0.7 million) were pension contributions. The value of the EPSP awards, which vest in the year following the end of the five-year performance period, is included in total compensation in the year the relevant five-year performance period ends.

6. Finance and investment income, finance costs and revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments

Finance and investment income includes:

Continuing operations	2019 £m		20181 £m		20171 £m
Income from equity investments		18.3		15.2		16.7
Interest income		80.7		83.7		72.3
		99.0		98.9		89.0

F-23

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

6. Finance and investment income, finance costs and revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments (continued)

Finance costs include:

Continuing operations	2019 £m		20181 £m		20171 £m
Net interest expense on pension plans		3.5		3.6		5.4
Interest on other long-term employee benefits		3.9		3.5		3.3
Interest expense and similar charges2		252.0		272.0		253.2
Interest expense related to lease liabilities		99.7		–		–
		359.1		279.1		261.9

Revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments include:

Continuing operations	20193 £m			20181,3 £m			20171,3 £m
Movements in fair value of treasury instruments		0.4			(11.0	)		0.4
Premium on the early repayment of bonds		(63.4	)		–			–
Revaluation of investments held at fair value through profit or loss		9.1			67.8			–
Revaluation of put options over non-controlling interests		(24.3)			25.9			39.5
Revaluation of payments due to vendors (earnout agreements)		(3.7)			46.1			156.5
Retranslation of financial instruments		245.7			(205.1	)		194.6
		163.8			(76.3	)		391.0

Notes

¹  Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies.

²  Interest expense and similar charges are payable on bank overdrafts, bonds and bank loans held at amortised cost.

³  Figures have been restated to be in accordance with IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, as described in the accounting policies.

The retranslation of financial instruments includes foreign exchange gains/losses on bonds, cross currency swaps, intercompany loans and bank balances that form part of the Group’s central financing structures. Any foreign exchange gains/losses on operations are recognised in general and administrative costs as set out in note 3.

The majority of the Group’s long-term debt is represented by $1,563 million of US dollar bonds at an average interest rate of 4.06%, €3,100 million of Eurobonds at an average interest rate of 1.82% and £400 million of Sterling bonds at an average interest rate of 2.88%.

Average borrowings under the US Dollar Revolving Credit Facilities (note 10) amounted to the equivalent of $72 million at an average interest rate of 1.11% (2018: $125 million at an average interest rate of 0.96%).

Average borrowings under the Australian Dollar Revolving Credit Facilities, amounted to A$310 million at an average rate of 2.95% (2018: A$439 million at an average rate of 3.27%).

Average borrowings under the US Commercial Paper Programme for 2019 amounted to $41 million at an average interest rate of 2.46% inclusive of margin (2018: $540 million at an average interest rate of 2.28% inclusive of margin).

Average borrowings under the Euro Commercial Paper Programme for 2019 amounted to £255 million at an average interest rate of 1.16% inclusive of currency swaps (2018: £nil).

7. Taxation

In 2019, the effective tax rate on profit before taxation was 22.6% (2018: 25.1%, 2017: 4.4%).

The tax charge comprises:

Continuing operations	2019 £m			20181 £m			20171 £m
Corporation tax
Current year		423.0			404.2			383.0
Prior years		(63.4	)		(108.1	)		(97.2	)
		359.6			296.1			285.8
Deferred tax
Current year		(78.3	)		(41.5	)		(207.4	)
Prior years		(6.3	)		1.4			4.6
		(84.6	)		(40.1	)		(202.8	)
Tax charge		275.0			256.0			83.0

7. Taxation (continued)

The corporation tax credit for prior years in 2019, 2018 and 2017, mainly comprises the release of a number of provisions following the resolution of tax matters in various countries.

The tax charge for the year can be reconciled to profit before taxation in the consolidated income statement as follows:

Continuing operations	20192 £m			20181,2 £m			20171,2 £m
Profit before taxation		1,214.3			1,019.3			1,894.0
Tax at the corporation tax rate of 19.0%3		230.7			193.7			364.6
Tax effect of share of results of associates		(2.7	)		(5.8	)		(18.8	)
Irrecoverable withholding taxes		44.7			48.9			31.6
Items that are not deductible/(taxable) in determining taxable profit		51.9			67.2			(39.0	)
Effect of different tax rates in subsidiaries operating in other jurisdictions		77.1			71.2			95.2
US Transition Tax related to unremitted foreign earnings		–			(4.6	)		20.1
Effect of change in US tax rate on deferred tax balances		–			–			(211.6	)
Origination and reversal on unrecognised temporary differences		(3.4	)		5.1			(18.9	)
Tax losses not recognised or utilised in the year		13.2			19.9			32.5
Utilisation of tax losses not previously recognised		(42.7	)		(25.5	)		(10.4	)
Recognition of temporary differences not previously recognised		(24.1	)		(7.4	)		(69.7	)
Release of prior year provisions in relation to acquired businesses		(19.9	)		(20.4	)		(15.0	)
Other prior year adjustments		(49.8	)		(86.3	)		(77.6	)
Tax charge		275.0			256.0			83.0
Effective tax rate on profit before tax		22.6%			25.1%			4.4%

Notes

¹  Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-Current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies.

²  Profit before taxation has been restated to be in accordance with IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, as described in the accounting policies.

³  As the Group is subject to the tax rates of more than one country, it has chosen to present its reconciliation of the tax charge using the UK corporation tax rate of 19.0% (2018: 19.0%, 2017: 19.25%).

Factors affecting the tax charge in future years

Given the Group’s geographic mix of profits and the changing international tax environment, the tax rate is expected to increase slightly over the next few years.

The tax charge may also be affected by the impact of acquisitions, disposals and other corporate restructurings, the resolution of open tax issues, and the ability to use brought forward tax losses. Changes in local or international tax rules, for example, as a consequence of the financial support programmes being implemented by governments during the Covid-19 crisis, changes arising from the application of existing rules, or challenges by tax or competition authorities, for example, the European Commission’s State Aid decision into the Group Financing Exemption in the UK CFC rules, may expose us to significant additional tax liabilities or impact the carrying value of our deferred tax assets, which would affect the future tax charge.

The Group does not currently expect any material additional charges, or credits, to arise in respect of these matters, beyond the amounts already provided. Liabilities relating to these open and judgemental matters are based upon estimates of whether additional taxes will be due after taking into account external advice where appropriate. Where the final tax outcome of these matters is different from the amounts which were initially recorded then such differences will impact the current and deferred income tax assets and liabilities in the period in which such determination is made.

Tax risk management

We maintain constructive engagement with the tax authorities and relevant government representatives, as well as active engagement with a wide range of international companies and business organisations with similar issues. We engage advisors and legal counsel to obtain opinions on tax legislation and principles. We have a Tax Risk Management Strategy in place which sets out the controls established and our assessment procedures for decision-making and how we monitor tax risk. We monitor proposed changes in taxation legislation and ensure these are taken into account when we consider our future business plans. Our directors are informed by management of any tax law changes, the nature and status of any significant ongoing tax audits, and other developments that could materially affect the Group’s tax position.

F-24

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

8. Ordinary dividends

Amounts recognised as distributions to equity holders in the year:

	2019		2018		2017		2019		2018		2017
Per share	Pence per share						£m		£m		£m
2018 Final dividend		37.30p		37.30p		37.05p		466.4		464.6		467.2
2019 Interim dividend		22.70p		22.70p		22.70p		284.1		282.8		284.3
		60.00p		60.00p		59.75p		750.5		747.4		751.5

Given the significant uncertainty over the coming months, we are taking prudent action now to maintain our liquidity and ensure that we emerge from this global crisis strong, secure, and ready to meet the continuing needs of our clients, shareholders and other stakeholders. Therefore, the Board is suspending the 2019 final dividend of 37.3 pence per share, which was due to be proposed at the 2020 AGM.

The payment of dividends will not have any tax consequences for the Group.

9. Earnings per share

Basic EPS

The calculation of basic EPS is as follows:

Continuing operations	20191			20181		20171
Earnings2 (£ million)		860.1			698.2		1,726.6
Weighted average shares used in basic EPS calculation (million)		1,250.0			1,247.8		1,261.1
EPS		68.8p			56.0p		136.9p
Discontinued operations	2019			2018		2017
Earnings2 (£ million)		(3.8	)		126.4		237.1
Weighted average shares used in basic EPS calculation (million)		1,250.0			1,247.8		1,261.1
EPS		(0.3p	)		10.1p		18.8p
Continued and discontinued operations	20191			20181		20171
Earnings2 (£ million)		856.3			824.6		1,963.7
Weighted average shares used in basic EPS calculation (million)		1,250.0			1,247.8		1,261.1
EPS		68.5p			66.1p		155.7p

Notes

¹  Earnings figures have been restated as described in the accounting policies.

²  Earnings is equivalent to profit for the year attributable to equity holders of the parent.

Diluted EPS

The calculation of diluted reported and diluted EPS is as follows:

Continuing operations	20191			20181		20171
Diluted earnings (£ million)		860.1			698.2		1,726.6
Weighted average shares used in diluted EPS calculation (million)		1,260.6			1,261.2		1,275.8
Diluted EPS		68.2p			55.4p		135.3p
Discontinued operations	2019			2018		2017
Diluted earnings (£ million)		(3.8	)		126.4		237.1
Weighted average shares used in diluted EPS calculation (million)		1,260.6			1,261.2		1,275.8
Diluted EPS		(0.3p	)		10.0p		18.6p
Continued and discontinued operations	20191			20181		20171
Diluted earnings (£ million)		856.3			824.6		1,963.7
Weighted average shares used in diluted EPS calculation (million)		1,260.6			1,261.2		1,275.8
Diluted EPS		67.9p			65.4p		153.9p

Note

¹  Earnings figures have been restated as described in the accounting policies.

Diluted EPS has been calculated based on the diluted earnings amounts above. At 31 December 2019, options to purchase 19.3 million ordinary shares (2018: 16.9 million, 2017: 8.2 million) were outstanding, but were excluded from the computation of diluted earnings per share because the exercise prices of these options were greater than the average market price of the Group’s shares and, therefore, their inclusion would have been accretive.

9. Earnings per share (continued)

A reconciliation between the shares used in calculating basic and diluted EPS is as follows:

	2019 m		2018 m		2017 m
Average shares used in basic EPS calculation		1,250.0		1,247.8		1,261.1
Dilutive share options outstanding		0.3		1.6		1.8
Other potentially issuable shares		10.3		11.8		12.9
Shares used in diluted EPS calculation		1,260.6		1,261.2		1,275.8

At 31 December 2019 there were 1,328,167,813 (2018: 1,332,678,227, 2017: 1,332,511,552) ordinary shares in issue, including treasury shares of 70,787,730 (2018: 70,854,553, 2017: 62,578,938).

10. Sources of finance

The following table summarises the equity and debt financing of the Group, and changes during the year:

	Shares					Debt
Analysis of changes in financing	2019 £m			2018 £m		2019 £m			2018 £m
Beginning of year		703.0			701.8		6,217.9			6,481.3
Ordinary shares issued		0.6			1.2		–			–
Share cancellations		(0.5	)		–		–			–
Net decrease in drawings on bank loans and corporate bonds		–			–		(1,713.2	)		(440.6	)
Amortisation of financing costs included in debt		–			–		10.3			7.7
Changes in fair value due to hedging arrangements		–			–		14.3			(9.9	)
Other movements		–			–		1.5			(0.2	)
Exchange adjustments		–			–		(257.9	)		179.6
End of year		703.1			703.0		4,272.9			6,217.9

Note

The table above excludes bank overdrafts which fall within cash and cash equivalents for the purposes of the consolidated cash flow statement.

Shares

At 31 December 2019, the Company’s share base was entirely composed of ordinary equity share capital and share premium of £703.1 million (2018: £703.0 million), further details of which are disclosed in note 28.

Debt

US$ bonds The Group has in issue $500 million of 3.625% bonds due September 2022, $750 million of 3.75% bonds due September 2024, $93 million of 5.125% bonds due September 2042 and $220 million of 5.625% bonds due November 2043.

Eurobonds The Group has in issue €750 million of 3.00% bonds due November 2023, €500 million of 1.375% bonds due March 2025, €750 million of 2.25% bonds due September 2026, €600 million of 1.625% bonds due March 2030, €250 million of Floating Rate Notes carrying a coupon of 3m EURIBOR + 0.32% due May 2020 and €250 million of Floating Rate Notes carrying a coupon of 3m EURIBOR +0.45% due March 2022.

Sterling bonds The Group has in issue £400 million of 2.875% bonds due September 2046.

Revolving Credit Facility The Group has a five-year Revolving Credit Facility of $2.5 billion due March 2024, signed in March 2019. The Group’s borrowing under these facilities, which are drawn down predominantly in pounds sterling, averaged the equivalent of $72 million in 2019. In June 2018, the Group’s subsidiary, WPP AUNZ entered into a A$150 million Revolving Credit Facility due June 2019 and a A$370 million Revolving Credit Facility due June 2021. In May 2019, the A$150 million Revolving Credit Facility was extended to June 2020. In December 2019, the A$370 million Revolving Credit Facility was reduced to A$270 million due June 2021. The Group’s borrowings under the Australian dollar facilities which were drawn down in Australian dollars and New Zealand dollars, averaged the equivalent of A$310 million in 2019. The Group had available undrawn committed credit facilities of £2,005.6 million at 31 December 2019 (2018: £2,074.7 million).

Borrowings under the $2.5 billion Revolving Credit Facility are governed by certain financial covenants based on the results and financial position of the Group. Borrowings under the A$150 million Revolving Credit Facility and the A$270 million Revolving Credit Facility are governed by certain financial covenants based on the results and financial position of WPP AUNZ.

The $2.5 billion Revolving Credit Facility, due March 2024, includes terms which require the consent of the majority of the lenders if a proposed merger or consolidation of the Company would alter its legal personality or identity. On 14 February 2020, the lending banks approved an extension of the term of the Revolving Credit Facility to March 2025.

F-25

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

10. Sources of finance (continued)

US Commercial Paper Programmes

The Group operates a commercial paper programmes using its Revolving Credit Facility as a backstop. The average US commercial paper outstanding in 2019 was $41 million (2018: $540 million). The average Euro commercial paper outstanding in 2019 was £255 million (2018: £nil) inclusive of the effect of currency swaps. There was no US or Euro Commercial Paper outstanding at 31 December 2019.

The following table is an analysis of future anticipated cash flows in relation to the Group’s debt, on an undiscounted basis which, therefore, differs from the fair value and carrying value:

	2019 £m			2018 £m
Within one year		(324.8	)		(748.4	)
Between one and two years		(204.0	)		(596.8	)
Between two and three years		(692.1	)		(937.1	)
Between three and four years		(726.3	)		(742.5	)
Between four and five years		(634.2	)		(786.8	)
Over five years		(2,761.9	)		(4,199.7	)
Debt financing (including interest) under the Revolving Credit Facility and in relation to unsecured loan notes		(5,343.3	)		(8,011.3	)
Short-term overdrafts – within one year1		(8,572.4	)		(8,864.6	)
Future anticipated cash flows		(13,915.7	)		(16,875.9	)
Effect of discounting/financing rates		1,070.4			1,793.4
Debt financing		(12,845.3	)		(15,082.5	)

Note

¹  Figures have been restated to be in accordance with IAS 32 Financial Instruments: Presentation, as described in the accounting policies.

Analysis of fixed and floating rate debt by currency including the effect of interest rate and cross-currency swaps:

2019 Currency		£m		Fixed rate1		Floating basis		Period (months)1
$	– fixed		1,178.2		4.06		n/a		95
£	– fixed		844.1		2.73		n/a		188
€	– fixed		1,777.7		2.34		n/a		82
	– floating		423.3		n/a		EURIBOR		16
Other			49.6		n/a		n/a		n/a
			4,272.9

2018 Currency		£m		Fixed rate1		Floating basis		Period (months)1
$	– fixed		1,154.8		4.58		n/a		181
	– floating		1,029.6		n/a		LIBOR		n/a
£	– fixed		1,044.1		3.43		n/a		232
€	– fixed		2,425.9		1.99		n/a		75
	– floating		449.2		n/a		EURIBOR		n/a
Other			114.3		n/a		n/a		n/a
			6,217.9

Note

¹  Weighted average. These rates do not include the effect of gains on interest rate swap terminations that are written to income over the life of the original instrument.

The following table is an analysis of future undiscounted anticipated cash flows in relation to the Group’s financial derivatives, which include interest rate swaps, forward contracts and other foreign exchange swaps assuming interest rates and foreign exchange rates as at 31 December:

	Financial liabilities				Financial assets
2019	Payable £m		Receivable £m		Payable £m		Receivable £m
Within one year		113.6		107.8		44.0		45.0
Between one and two years		17.5		10.9		–		–
Between two and three years		11.8		6.2		–		–
Between three and four years		11.6		6.1		–		–
Between four and five years		11.6		6.1		–		–
Over five years		449.8		456.3		–		–
		615.9		593.4		44.0		45.0

10. Sources of finance (continued)

	Financial liabilities				Financial assets
2018	Payable £m		Receivable £m		Payable £m		Receivable £m
Within one year		229.3		221.9		124.6		120.6
Between one and two years		50.0		45.3		11.8		6.5
Between two and three years		688.4		685.3		11.5		6.4
Between three and four years		408.5		406.6		11.6		6.5
Between four and five years		–		–		11.6		6.6
Over five years		–		–		461.4		498.2
		1,376.2		1,359.1		632.5		644.8

11. Analysis of cash flows

The following tables analyse the items included within the main cash flow headings on page F-17.

Net cash from operating activities:

	20191 £m			20181 £m			20171 £m
Profit for the year		950.1			901.1			2,059.4
Taxation		353.8			323.9			197.0
Revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments		(154.4	)		72.8			(409.3	)
Finance costs		376.4			289.3			269.8
Finance and investment income		(102.6	)		(104.8	)		(95.2	)
Share of results of associates		(21.2	)		(43.5	)		(113.5	)
Goodwill impairment on classification as held for sale		94.5			–			–
Gain on sale of discontinued operations		(73.8	)		–			–
Attributable tax expense on sale of discontinued operations		157.4			–			–
Adjustments for:
Non-cash share-based incentive plans (including share options)		71.4			84.8			105.0
Depreciation of property, plant and equipment		203.2			225.1			230.7
Depreciation of right-of-use assets		317.9			–			–
Impairment of goodwill		47.7			176.5			27.1
Amortisation and impairment of acquired intangible assets		135.6			280.0			195.1
Amortisation of other intangible assets		29.6			38.7			36.3
Investment write-downs		7.5			2.0			95.9
Gains on disposal of investments and subsidiaries		(45.1	)		(235.5	)		(129.0	)
(Gains)/losses on remeasurement of equity interests arising from a change in scope of ownership		(0.4	)		(2.0	)		0.3
Gain on sale of freehold property in New York		(7.9	)		–			–
Losses on sale of property, plant and equipment		3.2			0.6			1.1
Decrease/(increase) in trade receivables and accrued income		159.0			(298.9	)		(90.4	)
Increase/(decrease) in trade payables and deferred income		394.7			500.9			(170.8	)
Increase in other receivables		(263.8	)		(52.9	)		(110.6	)
Decrease in other payables – short-term		(16.4	)		(31.8	)		(122.8	)
Increase in other payables – long-term		53.7			0.4			20.1
Increase/(decrease) in provisions		23.1			48.0			(57.3	)
Corporation and overseas tax paid		(536.0	)		(383.6	)		(424.7	)
Payment on early settlement of bonds		(63.4	)		–			–
Interest and similar charges paid		(270.6	)		(252.8	)		(246.6	)
Interest paid on lease liabilities		(105.1	)		–			–
Interest received		80.8			90.4			76.9
Investment income		18.3			15.4			16.8
Dividends from associates		33.3			49.7			46.8
Net cash inflow from operating activities		1,850.5			1,693.8			1,408.1

Note

¹  Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

F-26

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

11. Analysis of cash flows (continued)

Acquisitions and disposals:
	2019 £m			2018 £m			2017 £m
Initial cash consideration		(3.9	)		(126.7	)		(214.8	)
Cash and cash equivalents acquired		–			11.3			28.9
Earnout payments		(130.2	)		(120.2	)		(199.1	)
Purchase of other investments (including associates)		(27.2	)		(48.1	)		(92.5	)
Acquisitions		(161.3	)		(283.7	)		(477.5	)
Proceeds on disposal of investments and subsidiaries1		2,468.5			849.0			296.0
Cash and cash equivalents disposed		(327.5	)		(15.1	)		–
Disposals of investments and subsidiaries		2,141.0			833.9			296.0
Cash consideration for non-controlling interests		(62.7	)		(109.9	)		(47.3	)
Net acquisition payments and disposal proceeds		1,917.0			440.3			(228.8	)

Note

¹  Proceeds on disposal of investments and subsidiaries includes return of capital from investments in associates.

Share repurchases and buybacks:
	2019 £m			2018 £m			2017 £m
Purchase of own shares by ESOP Trusts		–			(102.8	)		(214.6	)
Shares purchased into treasury		(43.8	)		(104.3	)		(289.6	)
Net cash outflow		(43.8	)		(207.1	)		(504.2	)
Net (decrease)/increase in borrowings:
	2019 £m			2018 £m			2017 £m
(Decrease)/increase in drawings on bank loans	(70.6)			(819.3)			785.6
Repayment of €600 million bonds	(512.7)			–			–
Repayment of $812 million bonds	(618.8)			–			–
Partial repayment of $272 million bonds	(135.4)			(20.8)			–
Partial repayment of $450 million bonds	(176.2)			(37.3)			–
Repayment of £200 million bonds	(199.5)			–			–
Proceeds from issue of €250 million bonds		–			218.8			214.0
Proceeds from issue of €500 million bonds		–			438.0			–
Repayment of €252 million bonds		–			(220.0	)		–
Repayment of £400 million bonds		–			–			(400.0	)
Net cash (outflow)/inflow		(1,713.2	)		(440.6	)		599.6
Cash and cash equivalents:
	20191 £m			20181 £m			20171 £m
Cash at bank and in hand	10,442.1			10,433.4			11,509.2
Short-term bank deposits		863.6			632.4			341.8
Overdrafts2		(8,572.4	)		(8,864.6	)		(9,852.8	)
		2,733.3			2,201.2			1,998.2

Notes

¹  Figures have been restated to be in accordance with IAS 32 Financial Instruments: Presentation, as described in the accounting policies.

²  Bank overdrafts are included in cash and cash equivalents because they form an integral part of the Group’s cash management.

The Group considers that the carrying amount of cash and cash equivalents approximates their fair value.

12. Assets held for sale and discontinued operations

In July 2019, the Group announced the proposed sale of its Kantar business to Bain Capital. On 5 December 2019 the first stage of the transaction completed, consisting of approximately 90% of the Kantar group, with consideration of £2,140.2 million after tax and disposal costs. The sale involved the Group disposing of the Kantar business and holding a 40% equity stakes post-transaction which are treated as an associate. This generated a pre-tax gain of £73.8 million, tax charge of £157.4 million and goodwill impairment of £94.5 million for the Group. The remaining stages of the transaction are expected to complete in 2020 with further consideration expected to be approximately £200 million after tax and disposal costs.

12. Assets held for sale and discontinued operations (continued)

As outlined in the accounting policies, the criterion of a highly probable sale was met on 9 July 2019, following Board approval of the disposal of Kantar to Bain Capital, representing the date at which the appropriate level of management was committed to a plan to sell the disposal group. The Kantar disposal group therefore became held for sale on this date.

The Kantar group (both the portion that has been disposed of by year end and the portion that is expected to be disposed of in 2020) is classified as a discontinued operation in 2019 under IFRS 5 as it forms a separate major line of business and there was a single co-ordinated plan to dispose of it. Kantar represents materially all of the Data Investment Management segment of the Group.

As at 31 December 2019 the remaining portion of the company not yet sold is disclosed as held for sale.

Results of the discontinued operations, which have been included in profit for the year, were as follows:

	2019 £m			2018 £m			2017 £m
Revenue		2,387.5			2,555.7			2,657.8
Costs of services		(1,951.5	)		(2,104.4	)		(2,147.4	)
Gross profit		436.0			451.3			510.4
General and administrative costs		(151.7	)		(257.8	)		(180.1	)
Operating profit		284.3			193.5			330.3
Share of results of associates		6.5			13.0			15.5
Profit before interest and taxation		290.8			206.5			345.8
Finance income		3.6			5.4			6.2
Finance costs		(17.3	)		(9.7	)		(7.9	)
Revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments		(9.4	)		3.5			18.3
Profit before taxation		267.7			205.7			362.4
Attributable tax expense		(78.8	)		(67.9	)		(114.0	)
Profit after taxation		188.9			137.8			248.4
Goodwill impairment on classification as held for sale1		(94.5	)		–			–
Gain on sale of discontinued operations		73.8			–			–
Attributable tax expense on sale of discontinued operations		(157.4	)		–			–
Net gain attributable to discontinued operations		10.8			137.8			248.4
Attributable to
Equity holders of the parent		(3.8	)		126.4			237.1
Non-controlling interests		14.6			11.4			11.3
		10.8			137.8			248.4

Note

¹  Goodwill impairment of £94.5 million arose from the assessment of fair value less costs to sell under IFRS 5.

For the year ended 31 December 2019, the Kantar group contributed £322.9 million (2018: £292.5 million, 2017: £378.4 million) to the Group’s net operating cash flows, paid £53.2 million (2018: £59.5 million, 2017: £67.8 million) in respect of investing activities and paid £27.2 million (2018: £7.9 million, 2017: £9.1 million) in respect of financing activities.

F-27

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

12. Assets held for sale and discontinued operations (continued)

The gain on sale of discontinued operations disposed by 31 December 2019 is calculated as follows:

	2019 £m
Intangible assets (including goodwill)		2,410.0
Property, plant and equipment		115.7
Right-of-use assets		103.5
Interests in associates and joint ventures		92.3
Other investments		11.5
Deferred tax assets		44.1
Corporate income tax recoverable		49.8
Trade and other receivables		748.8
Cash and cash equivalents		324.9
Trade and other payables		(839.8	)
Corporate income tax payable		(48.2	)
Lease liabilities		(106.3	)
Deferred tax liabilities		(98.6	)
Provisions for post-employment benefits		(26.7	)
Provisions for liabilities and charges		(22.4	)
Net assets		2,758.6
Non-controlling interests		(19.1	)
Net assets excluding non-controlling interests		2,739.5
Consideration received in cash and cash equivalents		2,352.1
Re-investment in equity stake1		231.7
Transaction costs		(56.1	)
Deferred consideration2		1.6
Total consideration received		2,529.3
Loss on sale before exchange adjustments		(210.2	)
Exchange adjustments recycled to the income statement		284.0
Gain on sale of discontinued operation		73.8

Notes

¹  Re-investment in equity stake represents the value of the Group’s 40% stake in the new Kantar group as part of the disposal.

²  Deferred consideration is made up of £79.6 million expected to be received in future periods on the satisfaction of certain conditions and the deferral of £78.0 million consideration against services the Group will supply to Kantar on favourable terms in the future. The conditions expected to be met in the future include the settlement of ongoing legal cases, realisation of the value of certain investments and the utilisation of certain tax losses and allowances. There was uncertainty at the date of disposal in regard to the ultimate resolution of these items and estimates of amounts due to be received were required to be made; there were no individually material estimates. Future services provided by the Group to Kantar arose through the negotiation of Transition Service Arrangements, as is customary for a disposal of this magnitude. The Group will support Kantar for a period of up to 4 years, primarily in the area of IT, on terms which are favourable to the disposal group. As such, an element of consideration has been deferred and will be recognised as the services are provided.

12. Assets held for sale and discontinued operations (continued)

The major classes of assets and liabilities comprising the operations classified as held for sale at 31 December 2019 are as follows:

	2019 £m
Non-current assets
Intangible assets:
Goodwill		155.4
Other		5.9
Property, plant and equipment		12.8
Right-of-use assets		25.7
Interests in associates and joint ventures		4.6
Other investments		0.6
Deferred tax assets		5.9
Trade and other receivables		2.6
		213.5
Current assets
Corporate income tax recoverable		15.9
Trade and other receivables		189.4
Cash and short-term deposits		66.5
		271.8
Total assets classified as held for sale		485.3
Current liabilities
Trade and other payables		(130.4	)
Corporate income tax payable		(3.8	)
Bank overdrafts		(0.2	)
Short-term lease liabilities		(3.9	)
		(138.3	)
Non-current liabilities
Trade and other payables		(1.3	)
Deferred tax liabilities		(1.2	)
Provisions for post-employment benefits		(8.5	)
Provisions for liabilities and charges		(0.6	)
Long-term lease liabilities		(20.5	)
		(32.1	)
Total liabilities associated with assets classified as held for sale		(170.4	)
Net assets of disposal group		314.9

On 27 February 2020, the second stage of the Kantar transaction completed, consisting of approximately 4% of the Kantar group, with cash consideration received of £136.7 million. The remaining stages of the transaction are expected to complete in 2020.

F-28

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

13. Leases

The movements in the year ended 31 December 2019 were as follows:

Right-of-use assets	Land and buildings £m			Plant and machinery £m			Total £m
1 January 2019		1,862.5			32.6			1,895.1
Additions		348.1			16.5			364.6
Transfers to net investment in subleases1		(37.6	)		–			(37.6	)
Disposals		(31.0	)		(0.6	)		(31.6	)
Depreciation of right-of-use assets		(301.5	)		(16.4	)		(317.9	)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(134.4	)		(3.7	)		(138.1	)
31 December 2019		1,706.1			28.4			1,734.5

Note

¹  The sublease of certain office space is classified as a finance lease and relates primarily to Kantar business units that were sold. The Company de-recognised the right-of-use asset (to the extent that it is subject to the sublease) and recognised the net investment in subleases, which is included within trade and other receivables. No other disclosures are deemed necessary as it is not material.

Lease liabilities	Land and buildings £m		Plant and machinery £m		Total £m
1 January 2019	2,294.4		31.8		2,326.2
Additions	325.9		12.3		338.2
Interest expense related to lease liabilities	101.5		1.2		102.7
Disposals	(27.5	)	(0.2	)	(27.7	)
Repayment of lease liabilities (including interest)	(326.2	)	(14.9	)	(341.1	)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale	(144.7	)	(3.9	)	(148.6	)
31 December 2019	2,223.4		26.3		2,249.7

The following table shows the breakdown of the lease expense between amounts charged to operating profit and amounts charged to finance costs:

Continuing operations	2019 £m
Depreciation of right-of-use assets:
Land and buildings		(286.5	)
Plant and machinery		(15.1	)
Short-term lease expense		(83.8	)
Low-value lease expense		(2.9	)
Variable lease expense		(74.2	)
Sublease income		17.5
Charge to operating profit		(445.0	)
Interest expense related to lease liabilities		(99.7	)
Charge to profit before taxation for leases		(544.7	)

Variable lease payments primarily include real estate taxes and insurance costs.

The maturity of lease liabilities at 31 December 2019 were as follows:

	2019 £m
Period ending 31 December
2020		385.9
2021		384.0
2022		335.4
2023		283.0
2024		220.5
Later years		1,393.7
		3,002.5
Effect of discounting		(752.8	)
Lease liability at 31 December 2019		2,249.7
Short-term lease liability		302.2
Long-term lease liability		1,947.5

The total committed future cash flows for leases not yet commenced at 31 December 2019 is £558.0 million.

The Group does not face a significant liquidity risk with regard to its lease liabilities. Refer to note 26 for management of liquidity risk.

14. Intangible assets

Goodwill

The movements in 2019 and 2018 were as follows:

	£m1
Cost
1 January 2018		13,597.0
Additions2		154.4
Revision of earnout estimates		(67.6	)
Exchange adjustments		368.1
31 December 2018		14,051.9
Additions2		8.5
Revision of earnout estimates		(14.1	)
Disposals		(18.6	)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(2,729.1	)
Exchange adjustments		(410.0	)
31 December 2019		10,888.6
Accumulated impairment losses and write-downs
1 January 2018		722.4
Impairment losses for the year		176.5
Exchange adjustments		20.4
31 December 2018		919.3
Impairment on classification as held for sale3		70.9
Impairment losses for the year		47.7
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(230.6	)
Exchange adjustments		(29.3	)
31 December 2019		778.0
Net book value
31 December 2019		10,110.6
31 December 2018		13,132.6
1 January 2018		12,874.6

Notes

¹  Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

²  Additions represent goodwill arising on the acquisition of subsidiary undertakings including the effect of any revisions to fair value adjustments that had been determined provisionally at the immediately preceding balance sheet date, as permitted by IFRS 3 Business Combinations. The effect of such revisions was not material in either year presented.

³ Goodwill impairment of £70.9 million arose from the assessment of fair value less costs to sell of the Kantar group on classification as held for sale under IFRS 5.

F-29

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

14. Intangible assets (continued)

Other intangible assets

The movements in 2019 and 2018 were as follows:

	Brands with an indefinite useful life £m		Acquired intangibles £m		Other £m		Total £m
Cost
1 January 2018	1,081.3		2,547.8		411.5		4,040.6
Additions	–		–		60.4		60.4
Disposals	–		(0.9	)	(37.3	)	(38.2	)
New acquisitions	–		40.3		–		40.3
Other movements1	–		2.9		(7.4	)	(4.5	)
Exchange adjustments	51.5		19.9		10.1		81.5
31 December 2018	1,132.8		2,610.0		437.3		4,180.1
Additions	–		–		43.2		43.2
Disposals	–		(3.4	)	(41.0	)	(44.4	)
New acquisitions	–		3.5		–		3.5
Other movements			–		(1.4	)	(1.4	)
Exchange adjustments	(41.4	)	(28.2	)	(9.9	)	(79.5	)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale	–		(979.0	)	(115.9	)	(1,094.9	)
31 December 2019	1,091.4		1,602.9		312.3		3,006.6
Amortisation and impairment
1 January 2018	–		1,718.7		303.5		2,022.2
Charge for the year	–		275.8		38.7		314.5
Disposals	–		(0.7	)	(27.3	)	(28.0	)
Other movements	–		–		(1.9	)	(1.9	)
Exchange adjustments	–		21.4		9.9		31.3
31 December 2018	–		2,015.2		322.9		2,338.1
Charge for the year	13.2		116.8		29.6		159.6
Disposals	–		(1.6	)	(37.7	)	(39.3	)
Other movements	–		–		2.6		2.6
Exchange adjustments	–		(15.2	)	(9.1	)	(24.3	)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale	–		(835.9	)	(63.0	)	(898.9	)
31 December 2019	13.2		1,279.3		245.3		1,537.8
Net book value
31 December 2019	1,078.2		323.6		67.0		1,468.8
31 December 2018	1,132.8		594.8		114.4		1,842.0
1 January 2018	1,081.3		829.1		108.0		2,018.4

Note

¹  Other movements in acquired intangibles include revisions to fair value adjustments arising on the acquisition of subsidiary undertakings that had been determined provisionally at the immediately preceding balance sheet date, as permitted by IFRS 3 Business Combinations.

Cash-generating units with significant goodwill and brands with an indefinite useful life as at 31 December are:

	Goodwill				Brands with an indefinite useful life
	2019 £m1		2018 £m1		2019 £m		2018 £m
GroupM		2,921.7		2,928.6		–		–
Kantar		–		2,513.0		–		–
Wunderman Thompson		2,121.9		2,101.8		409.7		424.8
VMLY&R		901.0		930.4		199.1		206.6
Ogilvy		758.6		614.4		211.1		219.1
Burson Cohn & Wolfe		739.3		711.9		130.2		135.4
Other		2,668.1		3,332.5		128.1		146.9
Total goodwill		10,110.6		13,132.6		1,078.2		1,132.8

Note

¹ Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

Other goodwill represents goodwill on a large number of cash-generating units, none of which is individually significant in comparison to the total carrying value of goodwill.

14. Intangible assets (continued)

Separately identifiable brands with an indefinite life are carried at historical cost in accordance with the Group’s accounting policy for intangible assets. The carrying values of the other brands with an indefinite useful life are not individually significant in comparison with the total carrying value of brands with an indefinite useful life.

Acquired intangible assets at net book value at 31 December 2019 include brand names of £218.6 million (2018: £361.2 million), customer-related intangibles of £100.6 million (2018: £220.6 million), and other assets (including proprietary tools) of £4.4 million (2018: £13.0 million).

The total amortisation and impairment of acquired intangible assets of £121.5 million (2018: £201.8 million) includes an impairment charge of £26.5 million (2018: £89.1 million) comprising £21.4 million in regard to certain brand names that are no longer in use, including £13.2 million for brands with an indefinite life and £5.1 million in regard to customer relationships where the underlying clients have been lost. £13.2 million of the impairment charge relates to the Public Relations segment, £13.0 million of the impairment charge relates to the Global Integrated Agencies segment, and £0.3 million relates to the Specialist Agencies segment. In addition, the total amortisation and impairment of acquired intangible assets includes £5.6 million (2018: £3.7 million) in relation to associates.

In accordance with the Group’s accounting policy, the carrying values of goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite useful lives are reviewed for impairment annually or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the asset might be impaired.

The impairment review is undertaken annually on 30 September. The goodwill impairment charge of £47.7 million (2018: £176.5 million) relates to a number of under-performing businesses in the Group. In certain markets, the impact of local economic conditions and trading circumstances on these businesses was sufficiently severe to indicate impairment to the carrying value of goodwill. In 2018, the goodwill impairment charge primarily relates to a charge of £142.8 million on VMLY&R with the remaining £33.7 million relating to a number of under-performing businesses in the Group.

Under IFRS, an impairment charge is required for both goodwill and other indefinite-lived assets when the carrying amount exceeds the ‘recoverable amount’, defined as the higher of fair value less costs to sell and value in use. The review assessed whether the carrying value of goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite useful lives was supported by the value in use determined as the net present value of future cash flows.

Due to a significant number of cash-generating units, the impairment test was performed in two steps. In the first step, the recoverable amount was calculated for each cash generating unit using a conservative pre-tax discount rate of 8.5% (2018: 9.0%), and assumed a long term growth rate of 3.0% (2018: 3.0%). The pre-tax discount rate of 8.5% was above the range of rates calculated for each of the global networks and for smaller cash-generating units that operate primarily in a particular region where we calculated a discount rate to be higher than 8.5%, that higher discount rate was used in the impairment test. Management have made the judgement that the long-term growth rate does not exceed the long-term average growth rate for the industry.

The recoverable amount was then compared to the carrying amount. Cash-generating units where the recoverable amount exceeded the carrying amount by a considerable margin were not considered to be impaired. Those cash-generating units where the recoverable amount did not exceed the carrying amount or where the recoverable amount exceeded the carrying amount by less than 25% were then further reviewed in the second step.

In the second step, the cash-generating units were retested for impairment using more specific assumptions. This included using a cash-generating unit specific pre-tax discount rate and management forecasts for a projection period of up to five years, followed by an assumed long-term growth rate of 3.0% (2018: 3.0%). If the recoverable amount using the more specific assumptions did not exceed the carrying value of a cash-generating unit, an impairment charge was recorded.

Pre-tax discount rates were calculated for the geographic regions in which the cash-generating units operate based on market assessments of the weighted average cost of capital. These assessments considered the time-value of money and risks specific to the asset for which the future cash flow estimates had not been adjusted, giving a range of pre-tax discount rates from 4.1% to 13.6% (2018: 6.2% to 16.3%).

Discount rates for each of the cash-generating units that operate globally were based on a weighting of the regional rates by its geographic distribution of cash flows, ranging from 6.3% to 7.4% (2018: 8.0% to 8.7%). The cash-generating units were initially tested for impairment in the first step using a conservative discount rate of 8.5% (2018: 9.0%).

Our approach in determining the recoverable amount utilises a discounted cash flow methodology, which necessarily involves making numerous estimates and assumptions regarding revenue growth, operating margins, appropriate discount rates and working capital requirements. The key assumptions used for estimating cash flow projections in the Group’s impairment testing are those relating to revenue growth and operating margin. The key assumptions take account of the businesses’ expectations for the projection period. These expectations consider the macroeconomic environment,

F-30

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

14. Intangible assets (continued)

industry and market conditions, the unit’s historical performance and any other circumstances particular to the unit, such as business strategy and client mix.

These estimates will likely differ from future actual results of operations and cash flows, and it is possible that these differences could be material. In addition, judgements are applied in determining the level of cash-generating unit identified for impairment testing and the criteria used to determine which assets should be aggregated. A difference in testing levels could affect whether an impairment is recorded and the extent of impairment loss.

Changes in our business activities or structure may also result in additional changes to the level of testing in future periods. Further, future events could cause the Group to conclude that impairment indicators exist and that the asset values associated with a given operation have become impaired. The recoverable amount of goodwill represents valuations as at 31 December 2019 and does not consider the impact of the emergence and spread of the Covid-19 virus. Given the adverse impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the global economy and the likely revenue declines that are expected as a result, there is an increased likelihood of impairments to goodwill and other indefinite lived intangible assets in future reporting periods. At the current time, given the level of uncertainty, such impact has not been quantified and any resulting impairment loss could have a material impact on the Group’s financial condition and results of operations.

Historically our impairment losses have resulted from a specific event, condition or circumstance in one of our companies, such as the loss of a significant client. As a result, changes in the assumptions used in our impairment model have not had a significant effect on the impairment charges recognised and a reasonably possible change in assumptions would not lead to a significant impairment. The carrying value of goodwill and other intangible assets will continue to be reviewed at least annually for impairment and adjusted down to the recoverable amount if required.

15. Property, plant and equipment

The movements in 2019 and 2018 were as follows:

	Land £m			Freehold buildings £m			Leasehold buildings £m			Fixtures, fittings and equipment £m			Computer equipment £m			Total £m
Cost
1 January 2018		37.1			118.8			1,081.8			377.2			703.0			2,317.9
Additions		–			17.7			161.4			49.9			85.8			314.8
New acquisitions		–			0.1			0.9			1.2			0.9			3.1
Disposals		–			–			(83.5	)		(62.9	)		(109.3	)		(255.7	)
Exchange adjustments		–			(1.1	)		41.8			9.9			10.0			60.6
31 December 2018		37.1			135.5			1,202.4			375.3			690.4			2,440.7
Additions		–			33.7			158.5			35.0			67.7			294.9
New acquisitions		–			–			–			0.1			–			0.1
Disposals		–			(109.0	)		(167.3	)		(68.3	)		(76.3	)		(420.9	)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(2.8	)		(17.1	)		(98.1	)		(115.2	)		(231.5	)		(464.7	)
Exchange adjustments		–			(16.9	)		(46.7	)		(14.5	)		(26.4	)		(104.5	)
31 December 2019		34.3			26.2			1,048.8			212.4			423.9			1,745.6
Depreciation
1 January 2018		–			28.5			526.1			236.9			546.9			1,338.4
Charge for the year		–			3.1			91.5			44.4			86.1			225.1
Disposals		–			–			(74.6	)		(58.0	)		(107.9	)		(240.5	)
Exchange adjustments		–			(4.5	)		24.3			6.4			8.5			34.7
31 December 2018		–			27.1			567.3			229.7			533.6			1,357.7
Charge for the year		–			1.5			79.9			36.3			67.8			185.5
Disposals		–			(7.2	)		(129.9	)		(59.9	)		(74.5	)		(271.5	)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		–			(15.6	)		(56.1	)		(81.7	)		(192.6	)		(346.0	)
Exchange adjustments		–			(1.6	)		(17.9	)		(13.2	)		(23.4	)		(56.1	)
31 December 2019		–			4.2			443.3			111.2			310.9			869.6
Net book value
31 December 2019		34.3			22.0			605.5			101.2			113.0			876.0
31 December 2018		37.1			108.4			635.1			145.6			156.8			1,083.0
1 January 2018		37.1			90.3			555.7			140.3			156.1			979.5

At 31 December 2019, capital commitments contracted, but not provided for in respect of property, plant and equipment, were £165.0 million (2018: £28.4 million). The increase is due to a number of significant property developments in North America, UK and Western Continental Europe.

16. Interests in associates, joint ventures and other investments

The movements in 2019 and 2018 were as follows:

	Interests in associates and joint ventures £m			Other investments £m
1 January 2018		1,065.2			1,153.5
Additions		16.7			35.0
Share of results of associate undertakings		43.5			–
Dividends		(49.7	)		–
Other movements		1.2			–
Reclassification from other investments to associates		0.3			(0.3	)
Exchange adjustments		12.9			–
Disposals		(304.0	)		(341.7	)
Reclassification to subsidiaries		16.9			–
Revaluation of other investments through profit or loss		–			68.1
Revaluation of other investments through other comprehensive income		–			(247.9	)
Amortisation of other intangible assets		(4.2	)		–
Write-downs		(2.0	)		–
31 December 2018		796.8			666.7
Additions		236.6			18.3
Share of results of associate undertakings		21.2			–
Dividends		(33.3	)		–
Other movements		1.2			–
Exchange adjustments		(35.5	)		–
Disposals		(51.5	)		(42.3	)
Reclassification to subsidiaries		(0.3	)		–
Revaluation of other investments through profit or loss		–			9.1
Revaluation of other investments through other comprehensive income		–			(141.4	)
Amortisation of other intangible assets		(5.6	)		–
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(109.1	)		(12.1	)
Write-downs		(7.5	)		–
31 December 2019		813.0			498.3

The investments included above as “other investments” represent investments in equity securities that present the Group with opportunity for return through dividend income and trading gains. They have no fixed maturity or coupon rate. The fair values of the listed securities are based on quoted market prices. For unlisted securities, where market value is not available, the Group has estimated relevant fair values on the basis of publicly available information from outside sources.

The carrying values of the Group’s associates and joint ventures are reviewed for impairment in accordance with the Group’s accounting policies.

The fair value of other investments represents valuations as at 31 December 2019 and does not consider the impact of the emergence and spread of the Covid-19 virus.

The Group’s principal associates and joint ventures at 31 December 2019 included:

	% owned		Country of incorporation
Barrows Design and Manufacturing (Pty) Limited		35.0		South Africa
Dat Viet VAC Media Corporation		30.0		Vietnam
GIIR Inc.		30.0		Korea
Haworth Marketing & Media Company		49.0		USA
High Co SA		34.1		France
Joye Media SL1		22.5		Spain
Nanjing Yindu Ogilvy Advertising Co. Ltd		49.0		China
Smollan Holdings (Pty) Ltd		24.8		South Africa
Summer (BC) JVCo S.à r.l.2		40.0		Luxembourg
Summer (BC) US JVCo SCSp2		40.0		Luxembourg

Notes

¹  Representing the Group’s interest in Imagina.

²  Representing the Group’s interest in Kantar split between the United States and rest of world.

F-31

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

16. Interests in associates, joint ventures and other investments (continued)

The market value of the Group’s shares in its principal listed associate undertakings at 31 December 2019 was as follows: GIIR Inc: £21.2 million, and High Co SA: £39.4 million (2018: GIIR Inc: £26.3 million and High Co SA: £30.3 million). The carrying value (including goodwill and other intangibles) of these equity interests in the Group’s consolidated balance sheet at 31 December 2019 was as follows: GIIR Inc: £37.7 million and High Co SA: £35.4 million (2018: GIIR Inc: £46.8 million and High Co SA: £37.1 million).

Where the market value of the Group’s listed associates is less than the carrying value, an impairment review is performed utilising the discounted cash flow methodology discussed in note 14, which represents the value in use.

The Group’s investments in its principal associate undertakings are represented by ordinary shares.

Summarised financial information

The following tables present a summary of the aggregate financial performance and net asset position of the Group’s associate undertakings and joint ventures. These have been estimated and converted, where appropriate, to an IFRS presentation based on information provided by the relevant companies at 31 December 2019.

	2019 £m			2018 £m			2017 £m
Income statement
Revenue		3,619.1			3,685.8			3,800.8
Operating profit		365.6			378.4			440.4
Profit before taxation		(385.9	)		194.7			381.9
Profit for the year		(429.6	)		118.1			312.5
Balance sheet
Assets		8,855.1			2,940.9			3,192.9
Liabilities		(6,765.7	)		(1,570.6	)		(1,633.7	)
Net assets		2,089.4			1,370.3			1,559.2

The application of equity accounting is ordinarily discontinued when the investment is reduced to zero and additional losses are not provided for unless the Group has guaranteed obligations of the investee or is otherwise committed to provide further financial support for the investee.

At 31 December 2019, capital commitments contracted, but not provided for, in respect of interests in associates and other investments were £21.8 million (2018: £31.4 million).

17. Deferred tax

The Group’s deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured at the end of each period in accordance with IAS 12 Income taxes. The recognition of deferred tax assets is determined by reference to the Group’s estimate of recoverability, using models where appropriate to forecast future taxable profits.

Deferred tax assets have only been recognised for territories where the Group considers that it is probable that all or a portion of the deferred tax assets will be realised. The main factors that we consider include:

– the future earnings potential determined through the use of internal forecasts;

– the cumulative losses in recent years;

– the various jurisdictions in which the potential deferred tax assets arise;

– the history of losses carried forward and other tax assets expiring;

– the timing of future reversal of taxable temporary differences;

– the expiry period associated with the deferred tax assets; and

– the nature of the income that can be used to realise the deferred tax asset.

If it is probable that some portion of these assets will not be realised, then no asset is recognised in relation to that portion.

If market conditions improve and future results of operations exceed our current expectations, our existing recognised deferred tax assets may be adjusted, resulting in future tax benefits. Alternatively, if market conditions deteriorate further or future results of operations are less than expected, future assessments may result in a determination that some or all of the deferred tax assets are not realisable. As a result, all or a portion of the deferred tax assets may need to be reversed.

F-32

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

17. Deferred tax (continued)

Certain deferred tax assets and liabilities have been offset as they relate to the same tax group. The following is the analysis of the deferred tax balances for financial reporting purposes:

	Gross 2019 £m			Offset 2019 £m			As reported 2019 £m			Gross 2018 £m			Offset 2018 £m			As reported 2018 £m
Deferred tax assets		430.9			(243.0	)		187.9			412.0			(259.0	)		153.0
Deferred tax liabilities		(622.8	)		243.0			(379.8	)		(738.5	)		259.0			(479.5	)
		(191.9	)					(191.9	)		(326.5	)		–			(326.5	)

The following are the major gross deferred tax assets recognised by the Group and movements thereon in 2019 and 2018:

	Deferred compensation £m			Accounting provisions and accruals £m			Retirement benefit obligations £m			Property, plant and equipment £m			Tax losses and credits £m			Share- based payments £m			Restructuring provisions £m			Other temporary differences £m			Total £m
1 January 2018		53.5			84.9			75.6			68.4			72.7			33.0			5.8			17.9			411.8
Acquisition of subsidiaries		–			–			–			–			–			–			–			2.0			2.0
Credit/(charge) to income		4.7			13.0			(11.2	)		(20.6	)		(8.9	)		(15.3	)		10.7			11.0			(16.6	)
Charge to other comprehensive income		–			–			(0.2	)		–			–			–			–			–			(0.2	)
Charge to equity		–			–			–			–			–			(1.6	)		–			–			(1.6	)
Exchange differences		3.4			3.5			4.3			0.1			3.3			0.7			0.8			0.5			16.6
31 December 2018		61.6			101.4			68.5			47.9			67.1			16.8			17.3			31.4			412.0
(Charge)/credit to income		(1.7	)		10.2			6.7			19.4			24.2			2.9			12.5			(16.6	)		57.6
Charge to other comprehensive income		–			–			(3.2	)		–			–			–			–			–			(3.2	)
Credit to equity		–			–			–			27.8			–			3.1			–			–			30.9
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(4.2	)		(19.2	)		(12.3	)		(13.6	)		(3.0	)		(0.7	)		(3.4	)		0.1			(56.3	)
Exchange differences		(2.2	)		(5.0	)		(2.2	)		3.2			(2.0	)		(0.6	)		(0.6	)		(0.7	)		(10.1	)
31 December 2019		53.5			87.4			57.5			84.7			86.3			21.5			25.8			14.2			430.9

Other temporary differences comprise a number of items including tax deductible goodwill, none of which is individually significant to the Group’s consolidated balance sheet. At 31 December 2019 the balance related to temporary differences in relation to revenue adjustments, tax deductible goodwill, fair value adjustments, and other temporary differences.

In addition the Group has recognised the following gross deferred tax liabilities and movements thereon in 2019 and 2018:

	Brands and other intangibles £m			Associate earnings £m			Goodwill £m			Property, plant and equipment £m			Financial instruments £m			Other temporary differences £m			Total £m
1 January 2018		489.2			21.6			140.4			21.2			36.2			56.6			765.2
Acquisition of subsidiaries		10.7			–			–			–			–			–			10.7
(Credit)/charge to income		(68.8	)		(3.9	)		31.8			(0.3	)		(0.9	)		(20.7	)		(62.8	)
Charge to other comprehensive income		–			–			–			–			–			0.5			0.5
Exchange differences		7.5			(0.1	)		10.1			1.3			4.6			1.5			24.9
31 December 2018		438.6			17.6			182.3			22.2			39.9			37.9			738.5
Acquisition of subsidiaries		0.8			–			–			–			–			–			0.8
(Credit)/charge to income		(31.2	)		68.6			10.3			(22.2	)		(0.7	)		(6.7	)		18.1
Credit to other comprehensive income		–			–			–			–			–			(9.6	)		(9.6	)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(46.6	)		(7.9	)		(51.7	)		–			–			0.6			(105.6	)
Exchange differences		(9.3	)		(1.8	)		(5.5	)		–			(2.3	)		(0.5	)		(19.4	)
31 December 2019		352.3			76.5			135.4			–			36.9			21.7			622.8

At the balance sheet, the Group has gross tax losses and other temporary differences of £6,475.6 million (2018: £6,638.6 million) available for offset against future profits. Deferred tax assets have been recognised in respect of the tax benefit of £1,856.6 million (2018: £1,763.4 million) of such tax losses and other temporary differences. No deferred tax asset has been recognised in respect of the remaining £4,619.0 million (2018: £4,875.2 million) of losses and other temporary differences as the Group considers that there will not be enough taxable profits in the entities concerned such that any additional asset could be considered recoverable. Included in the total unrecognised temporary differences are losses of £60.7 million (2018: £46.4 million) that will expire within 1–10 years, and £4,437.6 million (2018: £4,572.6 million) of losses that may be carried forward indefinitely.

At the balance sheet date, the aggregate amount of the temporary differences in relation to the investment in subsidiaries for which deferred tax liabilities have not been recognised was £2,165.3 million (2018: £1,768.5 million). No liability has been recognised in respect of these differences because the Group is in a position to control the timing of the reversal of the temporary differences and the Group considers that it is probable that such differences will not reverse in the foreseeable future.

F-33

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

18. Trade and other receivables

The following are included in trade and other receivables:

Amounts falling due within one year	2019 £m		2018 £m
Trade receivables (net of bad debt provision)		7,007.6		8,062.2
Work in progress		349.5		366.5
VAT and sales taxes recoverable		212.7		264.2
Prepayments		287.1		287.3
Accrued income		3,292.7		3,541.2
Fair value of derivatives		1.4		1.3
Other debtors		671.3		578.8
		11,822.3		13,101.5

The ageing of trade receivables and other financial assets by due date is as follows:

	Carrying amount at 31 December 2019 £m		Not past due £m		Days past due
2019					0-30 days £m		31-90 days £m		91-180 days £m		181 days- 1 year £m		Greater than 1 year £m
Trade receivables		7,007.6		5,553.3		934.9		341.0		92.1		22.4		63.9
Other financial assets		582.5		357.6		129.9		48.3		16.2		5.2		25.3
		7,590.1		5,910.9		1,064.8		389.3		108.3		27.6		89.2
	Carrying amount at 31 December 2018 £m		Not past due £m		Days past due
2018					0-30 days £m		31-90 days £m		91-180 days £m		181 days- 1 year £m		Greater than 1 year £m
Trade receivables		8,062.2		5,873.7		1,370.7		549.1		128.3		75.6		64.8
Other financial assets		551.7		424.9		61.3		14.2		8.6		7.7		35.0
		8,613.9		6,298.6		1,432.0		563.3		136.9		83.3		99.8

Other financial assets are included in other debtors.

Past due amounts are not impaired where collection is considered likely.

Amounts falling due after more than one year	2019 £m		2018 £m
Prepayments		2.2		3.0
Accrued income		–		16.5
Fair value of derivatives		–		8.4
Other debtors		135.4		152.1
		137.6		180.0

The Group has applied the practical expedient permitted by IFRS 15 to not disclose the transaction price allocated to performance obligations unsatisfied (or partially unsatisfied) as of the end of the reporting period as contracts typically have an original expected duration of a year or less.

Bad debt provisions:

	2019 £m			2018 £m			2017 £m
At beginning of year		116.6			91.3			93.8
New acquisitions		5.0			1.5			1.2
Charged to the income statement		45.4			66.7			27.4
Released to the income statement		(19.0	)		(11.6	)		(8.4	)
Exchange adjustments		(4.1	)		2.1			(4.1	)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(8.9	)		–			–
Utilisations and other movements		(23.3	)		(33.4	)		(18.6	)
At end of year		111.7			116.6			91.3

The allowance for bad and doubtful debts is equivalent to 1.6% (2018: 1.4%, 2017: 1.1%) of gross trade accounts receivables.

Impairment losses on work in progress and accrued income were immaterial for the years presented.

The Group considers that the carrying amount of trade and other receivables approximates their fair value.

19. Trade and other payables: amounts falling due within one year

The following are included in trade and other payables falling due within one year:

	20191 £m		20181 £m
Trade payables		10,112.1		10,524.3
Deferred income		1,024.6		1,253.6
Payments due to vendors (earnout agreements)		143.4		149.1
Liabilities in respect of put option agreements with vendors		75.7		19.4
Fair value of derivatives		1.5		2.6
Share repurchases - close period commitments2		252.3		–
Other creditors and accruals		2,578.5		3,072.9
		14,188.1		15,021.9

Notes

¹  Figures have been restated to be in accordance with IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, as described in the accounting policies

²  During 2019, the Company entered into an arrangement with a third party to conduct share buybacks on its behalf in the close period commencing on 2 January 2020 and ending on 27 February 2020, in accordance with UK listing rules. The commitment resulting from this agreement constitutes a liability at 31 December 2019, which is included in Trade and other payables: amounts falling due within one year and has been recognised as a movement in equity.

The Group considers that the carrying amount of trade and other payables approximates their fair value.

20. Trade and other payables: amounts falling due after more than one year

The following are included in trade and other payables falling due after more than one year:

	20191 £m		20181 £m
Payments due to vendors (earnout agreements)		100.3		251.7
Liabilities in respect of put option agreements with vendors		128.8		188.6
Fair value of derivatives		21.2		14.2
Other creditors and accruals		199.3		355.5
		449.6		810.0

Note

¹  Figures have been restated to be in accordance with IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, as described in the accounting policies

The Group considers that the carrying amount of trade and other payables approximates their fair value.

The following tables set out payments due to vendors, comprising contingent consideration and the Directors’ best estimates of future earnout-related obligations:

	20191 £m			20181 £m
Within one year		143.4			149.1
Between one and two years		36.3			140.0
Between two and three years		34.6			36.6
Between three and four years		12.3			44.0
Between four and five years		7.7			17.1
Over five years		9.4			14.0
		243.7			400.8
	2019 £m			2018 £m
At beginning of year		400.8			584.5
Earnouts paid		(130.0	)		(120.2	)
New acquisitions		9.6			48.6
Revision of estimates taken to goodwill (note 14)		(14.1	)		(67.6	)
Revaluation of payments due to vendors		3.8			(50.5	)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(11.5	)		–
Exchange adjustments		(14.9	)		6.0
At end of year		243.7			400.8

Note

¹  Figures have been restated to be in accordance with IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, as described in the accounting policies

F-34

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

20. Trade and other payables: amounts falling due after more than one year (continued)

As of 31 December 2019, the potential undiscounted amount of future payments that could be required under the earnout agreements for acquisitions completed in the current year and for all earnout agreements ranges from £nil to £14 million (2018: £nil to £179 million) and £nil to £1,110 million (2018: £nil to £1,960 million), respectively. The decrease in the maximum potential undiscounted amount of future payments for all earnout agreements is due to earnout arrangements that have completed and payments made on active arrangements during the year, disposal related to the Kantar sale and exchange adjustments, partially offset by earnout arrangements related to new acquisitions.

21. Bank overdrafts, bonds and bank loans

Amounts falling due within one year:

	20191 £m		20181 £m
Bank overdrafts		8,572.4		8,864.6
Corporate bonds and bank loans		225.6		583.1
		8,798.0		9,447.7

The Group considers that the carrying amount of bank overdrafts approximates their fair value.

Amounts falling due after more than one year:

	2019 £m		2018 £m
Corporate bonds and bank loans		4,047.3		5,634.8

The Group estimates that the fair value of corporate bonds is £4,439.8 million at 31 December 2019 (2018: £5,965.7 million). The fair values of the corporate bonds are based on quoted market prices.

The Group considers that the carrying amount of bank loans of £110.4 million (2018: £186.8 million) approximates their fair value.

The corporate bonds, bank loans and overdrafts included within liabilities fall due for repayment as follows:

	20191 £m		20181 £m
Within one year		8,798.0		9,447.7
Between one and two years		96.4		423.8
Between two and three years		590.4		761.0
Between three and four years		632.1		609.8
Between four and five years		554.3		670.1
Over five years		2,174.1		3,170.1
		12,845.3		15,082.5

Note

¹  Figures have been restated to be in accordance with IAS 32 Financial Instruments: Presentation, as described in the accounting policies.

22. Provisions for liabilities and charges

The movements in 2019 and 2018 were as follows:

	Property £m			Other £m			Total £m
1 January 2018		52.6			176.4			229.0
Charged to the income statement1		72.1			13.9			86.0
Acquisitions2		0.5			8.3			8.8
Utilised		(5.7	)		(20.1	)		(25.8	)
Released to the income statement		(5.7	)		(4.6	)		(10.3	)
Other movements		2.0			10.9			12.9
Exchange adjustments		2.9			8.2			11.1
31 December 2018		118.7			193.0			311.7
Charged to the income statement		39.5			7.6			47.1
Acquisitions2		–			0.7			0.7
Utilised		(1.2	)		(12.2	)		(13.4	)
Released to the income statement		(10.3	)		(6.9	)		(17.2	)
Other movements3		(58.4	)		9.2			(49.2	)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(6.2	)		(18.4	)		(24.6	)
Exchange adjustments		(0.6	)		(6.7	)		(7.3	)
31 December 2019		81.5			166.3			247.8

Notes

¹  Amounts charged to the income statement in 2018 include £50.6 million in regard to transformation costs with respect to the strategic initiative of co-locations in major cities.

22. Provisions for liabilities and charges (continued)

²  Acquisitions include £0.7 million (2018: £8.4 million) of provisions arising from revisions to fair value adjustments related to the acquisition of subsidiary undertakings that had been determined provisionally at the immediately preceding balance sheet date, as permitted by IFRS 3 Business Combinations.

³ Other movements include transfers of property provisions related to property leases which are now recognised in the right-of-use assets, increases of certain property-related liabilities and certain long-term employee benefits.

The Company and various of its subsidiaries are, from time to time, parties to legal proceedings and claims which arise in the ordinary course of business. The Directors do not anticipate that the outcome of these proceedings and claims will have a material adverse effect on the Group’s financial position or on the results of its operations.

23. Share-based payments

Charges for share-based incentive plans were as follows:

Continuing operations	2019 £m		20181 £m		20171 £m
Share-based payments		66.0		78.3		98.3

Note

¹  Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies.

Share-based payments comprise charges for stock options and restricted stock awards to employees of the Group.

As of 31 December 2019, there was £140.7 million (2018: £146.0 million) of total unrecognised compensation cost related to the Group’s restricted stock plans. That cost is expected to be recognised over an average period of one to two years.

Further information on stock options is provided in note 28.

Restricted stock plans

The Group operates a number of equity-settled share incentive schemes, in most cases satisfied by the delivery of stock from one of the Group’s ESOP Trusts. The most significant current schemes are as follows:

Executive Performance Share Plan (EPSP)

This scheme is intended to reward and incentivise the most senior executives of the Group. The performance period is five complete financial years, commencing with the financial year in which the award is granted. The vest date will usually be in the March following the end of the five-year performance period. Vesting is conditional on continued employment throughout the vesting period.

The 2019 EPSP awards are subject to a relative Total Shareholder Return (“TSR”) performance condition, with a Return on Invested Capital (“ROIC”) underpin. TSR performance will be compared to companies representing the most relevant, listed global competitors, with performance below median resulting in zero vesting. Performance between median and upper decile provides for a vesting opportunity of between 15% and 100%. The awards will vest subject to a ROIC underpin of an average of 7.5% over the performance period. The Compensation Committee has an overriding discretion to determine the extent to which the award will vest.

For EPSP awards granted between 2013 and 2018 there are three performance criteria, each constituting one-third of the vesting value, and each measured over this five-year period:

(i) TSR against a comparator group of companies. Threshold performance (equating to ranking in the 50th percentile of the comparator group) will result in 20% vesting of the part of the award dependent on TSR. The maximum vest of 100% will arise if performance ranks in the 90th percentile, with a sliding scale of vesting for performance between threshold and maximum.

(ii) Headline diluted earnings per share. Threshold performance (7% compound annual growth) will again result in a 20% vest. Maximum performance of 14% compound annual growth will give rise to a 100% vest, with a sliding vesting scale for performance between threshold and maximum.

(iii) Return on equity (ROE). Average annual ROE defined as headline diluted EPS divided by the balance sheet value per share of shareholders’ equity. Threshold performance ranges between 10–14% average annual ROE and maximum performance ranges between 14–18%, with a sliding scale in between. Threshold again gives rise to a 20% vest, 100% for maximum, with a sliding scale in between.

Performance Share Awards (PSA)

Conditional stock awards made under the PSA are dependent upon annual performance targets, typically based on one or more of: operating profit, profit before taxation and operating margin. Grants are made in the year following the year of performance measurement, and vest two years after grant date provided the individual concerned is continually employed by the Group throughout this time.

Leaders, Partners and High Potential Group

This scheme makes annual conditional stock awards to approximately 1,500 key executives of the Group. Vesting is conditional on continued employment over the three-year vesting period.

F-35

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

23. Share-based payments (continued)

Valuation methodology

For all of these schemes, the valuation methodology is based upon fair value on grant date, which is determined by the market price on that date or the application of a Black-Scholes model, depending upon the characteristics of the scheme concerned. The assumptions underlying the Black-Scholes model are detailed in note 28, including details of assumed dividend yields. Market price on any given day is obtained from external, publicly available sources.

Market/non-market conditions

Most share-based plans are subject to non-market performance conditions, such as margin or growth targets, as well as continued employment. EPSP is subject to a number of performance conditions, including TSR, a market-based condition.

For schemes without market-based performance conditions, the valuation methodology above is applied and, at each year-end, the relevant accrual for each grant is revised, if appropriate, to take account of any changes in estimate of the likely number of shares expected to vest.

For schemes with market-based performance conditions, the probability of satisfying these conditions is assessed at grant date through a statistical model (such as the Monte Carlo model) and applied to the fair value. This initial valuation remains fixed throughout the life of the relevant plan, irrespective of the actual outcome in terms of performance. Where a lapse occurs due to cessation of employment, the cumulative charge taken to date is reversed.

Movement on ordinary shares granted for significant restricted stock plans:

	Non-vested 1 January 2019 number m		Granted number m		Lapsed number m			Vested number m			Non-vested 31 December 2019 number m
Executive Performance Share Plan (EPSP)		6.7		4.2		(1.3	)		(0.8	)		8.8
Performance Share Awards (PSA)		2.3		1.7		(0.4	)		(1.0	)		2.6
Leaders, Partners and High Potential Group		9.1		4.1		(1.9	)		(2.0	)		9.3
Weighted average fair value (pence per share):
Executive Performance Share Plan (EPSP)		1,363p		989p		1,334p			1,265p			1,198p
Performance Share Awards (PSA)		1,437p		926p		1,210p			1,572p			1,081p
Leaders, Partners and High Potential Group		1,154p		909p		1,076p			1,551p			974p

The total fair value of shares vested for all the Group’s restricted stock plans during the year ended 31 December 2019 was £90.8 million (2018: £107.2 million, 2017: £114.8 million).

24. Provision for post-employment benefits

Companies within the Group operate a large number of pension plans, the forms and benefits of which vary with conditions and practices in the countries concerned. The Group’s pension costs are analysed as follows:

Continuing operations	2019 £m		20181 £m		20171 £m
Defined contribution plans		154.9		146.7		149.5
Defined benefit plans charge to operating profit		14.8		14.2		11.8
Pension costs (note 5)		169.7		160.9		161.3
Net interest expense on pension plans (note 6)		3.5		3.6		5.4
		173.2		164.5		166.7

Note

¹  Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies.

Defined benefit plans

The pension costs are assessed in accordance with the advice of local independent qualified actuaries. The latest full actuarial valuations for the various pension plans were carried out at various dates in the last three years. These valuations have been updated by the local actuaries to 31 December 2019. Valuations are as at 31 December 2019 and do not consider the impact of the emergence and spread of the Covid-19 virus.

24. Provision for post-employment benefits (continued)

The Group’s policy is to close existing defined benefit plans to new members. This has been implemented across a significant number of the pension plans.

Contributions to funded plans are determined in line with local conditions and practices. Contributions in respect of unfunded plans are paid as they fall due. The total contributions (for funded plans) and benefit payments (for unfunded plans) paid for 2019 amounted to £37.1 million (2018: £44.9 million, 2017: £68.2 million). Employer contributions and benefit payments in 2020 are expected to be approximately £25 million.

(a) Assumptions

There are a number of areas in pension accounting that involve estimates made by management based on advice of qualified advisors. These include establishing the discount rates, rates of increase in salaries and pensions in payment, inflation, and mortality assumptions. The main weighted average assumptions used for the actuarial valuations at 31 December are shown in the following table:

	2019 % pa		2018 % pa		2017 % pa		2016 % pa
UK
Discount rate1		2.0		2.8		2.4		2.5
Rate of increase in salaries2		n/a		n/a		n/a		3.5
Rate of increase in pensions in payment		4.4		4.3		4.1		4.1
Inflation		2.6		2.8		2.7		2.8
North America
Discount rate1		3.0		4.1		3.5		3.8
Rate of increase in salaries		3.0		3.0		3.1		3.1
Inflation		n/a		n/a		4.0		4.0
Western Continental Europe
Discount rate1		1.2		2.0		1.9		1.7
Rate of increase in salaries		2.2		2.3		1.9		2.0
Rate of increase in pensions in payment		1.8		1.2		1.2		1.3
Inflation		1.7		1.7		1.7		1.7
Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe
Discount rate1		4.6		5.0		4.2		4.2
Rate of increase in salaries		6.1		5.8		5.5		5.9
Inflation		3.7		3.6		4.0		4.0

Notes

¹  Discount rates are based on high-quality corporate bond yields. In countries where there is no deep market in corporate bonds, the discount rate assumption has been set with regard to the yield on long-term government bonds.

²  The salary assumptions are no longer applicable to the UK as the plans were either frozen or bought out since 2017. Active participants will not accrue additional benefits for future services under these plans.

For the Group’s pension plans, the plans’ assets are invested with the objective of being able to meet current and future benefit payment needs, while controlling balance sheet volatility and future contributions. Pension plan assets are invested with a number of investment managers, and assets are diversified among equities, bonds, insured annuities, property and cash or other liquid investments. The primary use of bonds as an investment class is to match the anticipated cash flows from the plans to pay pensions. The Group is invested in high-quality corporate and government bonds which share similar risk characteristics and are of equivalent currency and term to the plan liabilities. Various insurance policies have also been bought historically to provide a more exact match for the cash flows, including a match for the actual mortality of specific plan members. These insurance policies effectively provide protection against both investment fluctuations and longevity risks. The strategic target allocation varies among the individual plans.

Management considers the types of investment classes in which the pension plan assets are invested. The types of investment classes are determined by economic and market conditions and in consideration of specific asset class risk.

Management periodically commissions detailed asset and liability studies performed by third-party professional investment advisors and actuaries that generate probability-adjusted expected future returns on those assets. These studies also project the estimated future pension payments and evaluate the efficiency of the allocation of the pension plan assets into various investment categories.

F-36

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

24. Provision for post-employment benefits (continued)

At 31 December 2019, the life expectancies underlying the value of the accrued liabilities for the main defined benefit pension plans operated by the Group were as follows:

Years life expectancy after age 65	All plans		North America		UK		Western Continental Europe		Other1
Current pensioners (at age 65) – male		22.2		21.9		23.1		20.8		14.0
Current pensioners (at age 65) – female		23.7		23.3		24.1		23.9		17.4
Future pensioners (current age 45) – male		23.8		23.4		24.7		23.2		14.0
Future pensioners (current age 45) – female		25.4		24.9		25.9		26.0		17.4

Note

¹  Includes Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe.

The life expectancies after age 65 at 31 December 2018 were 22.2 years and 23.9 years for male and female current pensioners (at age 65) respectively, and 24.0 years and 25.7 years for male and female future pensioners (current age 45), respectively.

In the determination of mortality assumptions, management uses the most up-to-date mortality tables available in each country.

The following table provides information on the weighted average duration of the defined benefit pension obligations and the distribution of the timing of benefit payments for the next 10 years. The duration corresponds to the weighted average length of the underlying cash flows.

	All plans		North America		UK		Western Continental Europe		Other1
Weighted average duration of the defined benefit obligation (years)		11.2		9.1		13.8		12.7		8.5
Expected benefit payments over the next 10 years (£m)
Benefits expected to be paid within 12 months		51.4		25.1		15.8		5.8		4.7
Benefits expected to be paid in 2021		45.4		24.5		12.6		5.5		2.8
Benefits expected to be paid in 2022		46.9		26.0		12.7		5.8		2.4
Benefits expected to be paid in 2023		44.4		22.3		12.9		5.7		3.5
Benefits expected to be paid in 2024		42.3		20.9		13.0		5.6		2.8
Benefits expected to be paid in the next five years		216.1		94.7		67.1		32.6		21.7

Note

¹  Includes Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe.

The following table presents a sensitivity analysis for each significant actuarial assumption showing how the defined benefit obligation would have been affected by changes in the relevant actuarial assumption that were reasonably possible at the balance sheet date. This sensitivity analysis applies to the defined benefit obligation only and not to the net defined benefit pension liability in its entirety, the measurement of which is driven by a number of factors including, in addition to the assumptions below, the fair value of plan assets.

The sensitivity analyses are based on a change in one assumption while holding all other assumptions constant so that interdependencies between the assumptions are excluded. The methodology applied is consistent with that used to determine the recognised defined benefit obligation. The sensitivity analysis for inflation is not shown as it is an underlying assumption to build the pension and salary increase assumptions. Changing the inflation assumption on its own without changing the salary or pension assumptions will not result in a significant change in pension liabilities.

	Increase/(decrease) in benefit obligation
Sensitivity analysis of significant actuarial assumptions	2019 £m			2018 £m
Discount rate
Increase by 25 basis points:
UK		(8.2	)		(9.8	)
North America		(7.5	)		(8.8	)
Western Continental Europe		(3.8	)		(8.7	)
Other1		(0.7	)		(0.7	)
Decrease by 25 basis points:
UK		8.5			10.3
North America		7.7			9.1
Western Continental Europe		3.9			9.3
Other1		0.7			0.7
Rate of increase in salaries
Increase by 25 basis points:
Western Continental Europe		0.8			1.3
Other1		0.6			0.7
Decrease by 25 basis points:
Western Continental Europe		(0.8	)		(1.2	)
Other1		(0.6	)		(0.6	)
Rate of increase in pensions in payment
Increase by 25 basis points:
UK		0.7			1.3
Western Continental Europe		1.9			5.3
Decrease by 25 basis points:
UK		(0.6	)		(0.8	)
Western Continental Europe		(1.9	)		(5.0	)
Life expectancy
Increase in longevity by one additional year:
UK		11.7			13.6
North America		5.9			5.7
Western Continental Europe		4.3			6.9

Note

¹  Includes Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe.

(b) Assets and liabilities

At 31 December, the fair value of the assets in the pension plans, and the assessed present value of the liabilities in the pension plans are shown in the following table:

	2019 £m			%		2018 £m			%		2017 £m			%
Equities		55.5			9.1		76.5			9.1		124.6			13.4
Bonds		272.5			44.8		544.9			64.8		520.0			55.9
Insured annuities1		239.1			39.3		90.9			10.8		178.5			19.2
Property		0.7			0.1		0.9			0.1		1.3			0.1
Cash		17.7			2.9		31.1			3.7		9.9			1.1
Other		23.0			3.8		96.3			11.5		95.7			10.3
Total fair value of assets		608.5			100.0		840.6			100.0		930.0			100.0
Present value of liabilities		(767.5	)				(1,024.0	)				(1,135.4	)
Deficit in the plans		(159.0	)				(183.4	)				(205.4	)
Irrecoverable surplus		–					(0.9	)				(0.9	)
Net liability2		(159.0	)				(184.3	)				(206.3	)
Plans in surplus		20.6					42.8					43.9
Plans in deficit		(179.6	)				(227.1	)				(250.2	)

Notes

¹  The increase in 2019 from 2018 in the amount of assets held in insured annuities is attributable to the completion of buy-in transactions during 2019 for certain UK plans. The invested assets for these plans, as at 31 December 2018 consisted of a mixture of equities, bonds, cash and other assets, were transferred to an insurance company and, in accordance with IAS 19, all assets for these plans are now classified as insured annuities.

²  The related deferred tax asset is discussed in note 17.

F-37

24. Provision for post-employment benefits (continued)

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

24. Provision for post-employment benefits (continued)

All plan assets have quoted prices in active markets with the exception of insured annuities and other assets.

Surplus/(deficit) in plans by region	2019 £m			2018 £m			2017 £m
UK		0.3			33.7			31.5
North America		(45.2	)		(68.7	)		(89.2	)
Western Continental Europe		(79.4	)		(104.6	)		(107.7	)
Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe		(34.7	)		(43.8	)		(40.0	)
Deficit in the plans		(159.0	)		(183.4	)		(205.4	)

Some of the Group’s defined benefit plans are unfunded (or largely unfunded) by common custom and practice in certain jurisdictions. In the case of these unfunded plans, the benefit payments are made as and when they fall due. Pre-funding of these plans would not be typical business practice.

The following table shows the split of the deficit at 31 December between funded and unfunded pension plans.

	2019 Surplus/ (deficit) £m			2019 Present value of liabilities £m			2018 Surplus/ (deficit) £m			2018 Present value of liabilities £m			2017 Surplus/ (deficit) £m			2017 Present value of liabilities £m
Funded plans by region
UK		0.3			(247.6	)		33.7			(290.5	)		31.5			(387.5	)
North America		12.8			(286.2	)		(4.6	)		(375.3	)		(21.4	)		(385.4	)
Western Continental Europe		(33.3	)		(77.6	)		(35.8	)		(168.4	)		(37.9	)		(173.3	)
Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe		(3.6	)		(20.9	)		(6.6	)		(19.7	)		(4.2	)		(15.8	)
Deficit/liabilities in the funded plans		(23.8	)		(632.3	)		(13.3	)		(853.9	)		(32.0	)		(962.0	)
Unfunded plans by region
North America		(58.0	)		(58.0	)		(64.1	)		(64.1	)		(67.8	)		(67.8	)
Western Continental Europe		(46.1	)		(46.1	)		(68.8	)		(68.8	)		(69.8	)		(69.8	)
Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe		(31.1	)		(31.1	)		(37.2	)		(37.2	)		(35.8	)		(35.8	)
Deficit/liabilities in the unfunded plans		(135.2	)		(135.2	)		(170.1	)		(170.1	)		(173.4	)		(173.4	)
Deficit/liabilities in the plans		(159.0	)		(767.5	)		(183.4	)		(1,024.0	)		(205.4	)		(1,135.4	)

In accordance with IAS 19, plans that are wholly or partially funded are considered funded plans.

(c) Pension expense

The following tables show the breakdown of the pension expense between amounts charged to operating profit and amounts charged to finance costs:

Continuing operations	2019 £m		20181 £m		20171 £m
Service cost2		12.9		12.0		9.4
Administrative expenses		1.9		2.2		2.4
Charge to operating profit		14.8		14.2		11.8
Net interest expense on pension plans		3.5		3.6		5.4
Charge to profit before taxation for defined benefit plans		18.3		17.8		17.2

Notes

¹  Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies.

²  Includes current service cost, past service costs related to plan amendments and (gain)/loss on settlements and curtailments.

24. Provision for post-employment benefits (continued)

The following tables show the breakdown of amounts recognised in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income (OCI):

	2019 £m			2018 £m			2017 £m
Return on plan assets (excluding interest income)		16.7			(43.9	)		13.4
Changes in demographic assumptions underlying the present value of the plan liabilities		5.9			3.8			12.7
Changes in financial assumptions underlying the present value of the plan liabilities		(64.3	)		45.2			(17.0	)
Experience gain arising on the plan liabilities		5.1			3.8			7.9
Actuarial (loss)/gain recognised in OCI		(36.6	)		8.9			17.0

(d) Movement in plan liabilities

The following table shows an analysis of the movement in the pension plan liabilities for each accounting period:

	2019 £m			2018 £m			2017 £m
Plan liabilities at beginning of year		1,024.0			1,135.4			1,209.8
Service cost1		14.9			15.5			13.0
Interest cost		26.2			30.7			32.9
Actuarial (gain)/loss:
Effect of changes in demographic assumptions		(5.9	)		(3.8	)		(12.7	)
Effect of changes in financial assumptions		64.3			(45.2	)		17.0
Effect of experience adjustments		(5.1	)		(3.8	)		(7.9	)
Benefits paid2		(140.8	)		(75.6	)		(79.7	)
(Gain)/loss due to exchange rate movements		(22.7	)		30.0			(36.4	)
Settlement payments3		(47.4	)		(70.4	)		(1.2	)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(148.0	)		–			–
Other4		8.0			11.2			0.6
Plan liabilities at end of year		767.5			1,024.0			1,135.4

Notes

¹  Includes current service cost, past service costs related to plan amendments and (gain)/loss on settlements and curtailments.

²  In 2019, there was an amendment to a US defined benefit plan that allowed certain participants to receive immediate lump sum pay-outs, which totalled £69.7 million.

³  In 2019 and 2018, the Group completed the transfer of the defined benefit obligations for certain UK plans to an insurer resulting in £47.1 million and £70.4 million, respectively, in settlement payments.

⁴  Other includes acquisitions, disposals, plan participants’ contributions and reclassifications. The reclassifications represent certain of the Group’s defined benefit plans which are included in this note for the first time in the periods presented.

(e) Movement in plan assets

The following table shows an analysis of the movement in the pension plan assets for each accounting period:

	2019 £m			2018 £m			2017 £m
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year		840.6			930.0			934.2
Interest income on plan assets		22.4			26.3			26.6
Return on plan assets (excluding interest income)		16.7			(43.9	)		13.4
Employer contributions		37.1			44.9			68.2
Benefits paid1		(140.8	)		(75.6	)		(79.7	)
(Loss)/gain due to exchange rate movements		(15.7	)		23.0			(28.7	)
Settlement payments2		(47.4	)		(70.4	)		(1.2	)
Administrative expenses		(2.1	)		(3.4	)		(3.1	)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(111.1	)		–			–
Other3		8.8			9.7			0.3
Fair value of plan assets at end of year		608.5			840.6			930.0
Actual return on plan assets		39.1			(17.6	)		40.0

Notes

¹  In 2019, there was an amendment to a US defined benefit plan that allowed certain participants to receive immediate lump sum pay-outs, which totalled £69.7 million.

²  In 2019 and 2018, the Group completed the transfer of the defined benefit obligations for certain UK plans to an insurer resulting in £47.1 million and £70.4 million, respectively, in settlement payments.

³  Other includes acquisitions, disposals, plan participants’ contributions and reclassifications. The reclassifications represent certain of the Group’s defined benefit plans which are included in this note for the first time in the periods presented.

F-38

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

25. Event after the reporting period

In the period since 31 December 2019, the emergence and spread of Covid-19 has impacted the Group and its clients. The coronavirus pandemic is adversely affecting and is expected to continue to adversely affect our business, revenues, results of operations, financial condition and prospects.

The Group has approximately £2.0 billion of undrawn credit facilities at 31 December 2019 and has supported this by further action to maintain liquidity, including the suspension of share buybacks and the 2019 final dividend. On working capital, we are constantly reviewing cash outflows and receipts to monitor our position. We are continuing to work closely with our clients to ensure timely payment for the services we have provided in line with contractual commitments. Cost reduction and cash conservation measures have also been taken, including the freezing of new hires, 20% salary and fee sacrifice for the CEO, Board members, Executive committee members and employees earning above certain thresholds. Additionally, savings have been identified on property and IT capital expenditure.

Close to 95% of our people are remote working and maintaining services to our clients and using creativity to support clients to adjust their communications, and support governments and NGOs in mitigating the impact of Covid-19.

26. Risk management policies

Foreign currency risk

The Group’s results in pounds sterling are subject to fluctuation as a result of exchange rate movements. The Group does not hedge this translation exposure to its earnings but does hedge the currency element of its net assets using foreign currency borrowings, cross-currency swaps and forward foreign exchange contracts.

The Group effects these currency net asset hedges by borrowing in the same currencies as the operating (or “functional”) currencies of its main operating units. The majority of the Group’s debt is therefore denominated in US dollars, pounds sterling and euros. The Group’s borrowings at 31 December 2019 were primarily made up of $1,563 million, £844 million and €2,600 million (2018: $2,784 million, £1,044 million and €3,200 million). The Group’s average gross debt during the course of 2019 was $2,509 million, £947 million and €3,128 million (2018: $3,377 million, £1,039 million and €3,202 million).

The Group’s operations conduct the majority of their activities in their own local currency and consequently the Group has no significant transactional foreign exchange exposures arising from its operations. Any significant cross-border trading exposures are hedged by the use of forward foreign-exchange contracts. No speculative foreign exchange trading is undertaken.

Interest rate risk

The Group is exposed to interest rate risk on both interest-bearing assets and interest-bearing liabilities. The Group has a policy of actively managing its interest rate risk exposure while recognising that fixing rates on all its debt eliminates the possibility of benefiting from rate reductions and similarly, having all its debt at floating rates unduly exposes the Group to increases in rates.

Including the effect of interest rate and cross-currency swaps, 100% of the year-end US dollar debt is at fixed rates averaging 4.06% for an average period of 95 months; 100% of the sterling debt is at a fixed rate of 2.73% for an average period of 188 months; 80.8% of the euro debt is at fixed rates averaging 2.34% for an average period of 82 months and 19.2% of the euro debt is at floating rates averaging 0.06% for an average of 16 months.

Going concern and liquidity risk

In considering going concern and liquidity risk, the Directors have reviewed the Group’s future cash requirements and earnings projections. The Directors believe these forecasts have been prepared on a prudent basis and have also considered the impact of a range of potential changes to trading performance. The Company’s forecasts and projections, taking account of (i) reasonably possible declines in revenue less pass-through costs; and (ii) remote declines in revenue less pass-through costs for stress-testing purposes as a consequence of the Covid-19 pandemic from April 2020 onwards compared to 2019, considering the Group’s bank covenant and liquidity headroom taking into account the suspension of share buybacks and the final dividend of 2019 and cost mitigation actions which are and which could be implemented, show that the Company and the Group would be able to operate with appropriate liquidity and within its banking covenants and be able to meet its liabilities as they fall due. The Company modelled a range of revenue less pass-through costs declines from 15% to over 35%. The Directors have concluded that the Group should be able to operate within its current facilities and comply with its banking covenants for the foreseeable future and therefore believe it is appropriate to prepare the financial statements of the Group on a going concern basis. The potential impact of Brexit has been considered and is not deemed to have a significant effect on this assessment.

26. Risk management policies (continued)

At 31 December 2019, the Group has access to £6.3 billion of committed facilities with maturity dates spread over the years 2020 to 2046 as illustrated below:

		2020 £m		2021 £m		2022 £m		2023 £m		2024+ £m
£ bonds £400m (2.875% 2046)	400.0										400.0
US bond $220m (5.625% 2043)	165.8										165.8
US bond $93m (5.125% 2042)	70.0										70.0
Eurobonds €600m (1.625% 2030)	507.9										507.9
Eurobonds €750m (2.25% 2026)	634.9										634.9
Eurobonds €500m (1.375% 2025)	423.3										423.3
US bond $750m (3.75% 2024)	565.5										565.5
Bank revolver ($2,500m 2024)	1,884.9										1,884.9
Eurobonds €750m (3.0% 2023)	634.9								634.9
US bond $500m (3.625% 2022)	377.0						377.0
Eurobonds €250m (3m EURIBOR + 0.45% 2022)	211.6						211.6
Bank revolver (A$150m 2020, A$270m 2021)	222.4		79.4		143.0
Eurobonds €250m (3m EURIBOR + 0.32% 2020)	211.6		211.6
Total committed facilities available	6,309.8		291.0		143.0		588.6		634.9		4,652.3
Drawn down facilities at 31 December 2019	4,304.2		216.9		96.4		588.6		634.9		2,767.4
Undrawn committed credit facilities	2,005.6

Given the strong cash generation of the business, its debt maturity profile and available facilities, the Directors believe the Group has sufficient liquidity to match its requirements for the foreseeable future.

Treasury activities

Treasury activity is managed centrally from London, New York and Hong Kong, and is principally concerned with the monitoring of working capital, managing external and internal funding requirements and the monitoring and management of financial market risks, in particular interest rate and foreign exchange exposures.

The treasury operation is not a profit centre and its activities are carried out in accordance with policies approved by the Board of Directors and subject to regular review and audit.

The Group manages liquidity risk by ensuring continuity and flexibility of funding even in difficult market conditions. Undrawn committed borrowing facilities are maintained in excess of peak net-borrowing levels and debt maturities are closely monitored. Targets for debt less cash position are set on an annual basis and, to assist in meeting this, working capital targets are set for all the Group’s major operations.

Capital risk management

The Group manages its capital to ensure that entities in the Group will be able to continue as a going concern while maximising the return to stakeholders through the optimisation of the debt and equity balance. The capital structure of the Group consists of debt, which includes the borrowings disclosed in note 10, cash and cash equivalents and equity attributable to equity holders of the parent, comprising issued capital, reserves and retained earnings as disclosed in the consolidated statement of changes in equity and in notes 28 and 29.

Given the significant uncertainty over the coming months generated by the emergence and spread of Covid-19, the Group continues to monitor its capital structure. Our bond portfolio at the 31 December 2019 had an average maturity of 8.2 years, with only a May 2020 €250 million Eurobond due in the next two years.

Credit risk

The Group’s principal financial assets are cash and short-term deposits, trade and other receivables and investments, the carrying values of which represent the Group’s maximum exposure to credit risk in relation to financial assets, as shown in note 27.

The Group’s credit risk is primarily attributable to its trade receivables. The majority of the Group’s trade receivables are due from large national or multinational companies where the risk of default is considered low. The amounts presented in the consolidated balance sheet are net of allowances for doubtful receivables, estimated by the Group’s management based on expected losses, prior experience and their assessment of the current economic environment. A relatively small number of clients make up a significant percentage of the Group’s debtors, but no single client represents more than 5% of total trade receivables as at 31 December 2019.

The credit risk on liquid funds and derivative financial instruments is limited because the counterparties are banks with high credit ratings assigned by international credit-rating agencies or banks that have been financed by their government.

F-39

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

A relatively small number of clients contribute a significant percentage of the Group’s consolidated revenues. The Group’s clients generally are able to reduce advertising and marketing spending or cancel projects at any time for any reason. There can be no assurance that any of the Group’s clients will continue to utilise the Group’s services to the same extent, or at all, in the future. Clients can reduce their marketing spend, terminate contracts, or cancel projects on short notice. The loss of one or more of our largest clients, if not replaced by new accounts or an increase in business from existing clients, would adversely affect our financial condition.

Following the emergence and spread of Covid-19 in 2020, the Group continues to work closely with our clients to ensure timely payment for the services we have provided in line with contractual commitments. The Group constantly reviewing cash outflows and receipts to monitor our position.

Sensitivity analysis

The following sensitivity analysis addresses the effect of currency and interest rate risks on the Group’s financial instruments. The analysis assumes that all hedges are highly effective.

Currency risk

A 10% weakening of sterling against the Group’s major currencies would result in the following losses, which would arise on the retranslation of foreign currency denominated borrowings and derivatives. These losses would be partially offset in equity by a corresponding gain arising on the retranslation of the Group’s foreign currency net assets. A 10% strengthening of sterling would have an equal and opposite effect.

	20191 £m		20181 £m
US dollar		240.5		278.1
Euro		153.0		211.4

Notes

¹ Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

Interest rate risk

A one percentage point increase in market interest rates for all currencies in which the Group had cash and borrowings at 31 December 2019 would increase profit before tax by approximately £22.6 million (2018: £7.2 million). A one percentage decrease in market interest rates would have an equal and opposite effect. This has been calculated by applying the interest rate change to the Group’s variable rate cash and borrowings.

27. Financial instruments

Currency derivatives

The Group utilises currency derivatives over significant future transactions and cash flows. The Group is a party to a variety of foreign currency derivatives in the management of its exchange rate exposures. The instruments purchased are primarily denominated in the currencies of the Group’s principal markets.

At the balance sheet date, cross currency swaps held at fair value through profit or loss have receipts of €500.0 million and payments of £444.1 million due in March 2025. The Group estimates the fair value of these contracts to be a net liability of £21.2 million (2018: net asset of £8.4 million). These amounts are based on market values of equivalent instruments at the balance sheet date, comprising £nil (2018: £8.4 million) assets included in trade and other receivables and £21.2 million (2018: £nil) liabilities included in trade and other payables.

At the balance sheet date, the total nominal amount of outstanding forward foreign exchange contracts not designated as hedges was £151.7 million (2018: £296.1 million). The Group estimates the fair value of these contracts to be a net liability of £0.1 million (2018: £1.3 million).

These arrangements are designed to address significant exchange exposure and are renewed on a revolving basis as required.

Interest rate swaps

The Group uses interest rate swaps as hedging instruments in fair value hedges to manage its exposure to interest rate movements on its borrowing. During 2019 the Group terminated contracts that had a nominal value of $812 million which had fixed rate receipts of 4.75% and floating interest payments averaging LIBOR plus 2.34% until November 2021. The Group also terminated contracts in 2019 that had a nominal value of $500 million which had fixed rate receipts of 3.63% and floating interest payments averaging LIBOR plus 1.52% until September 2022.

The fair value of interest rate swaps entered into at 31 December 2019 is estimated to be a net liability of £nil (2018: £14.2 million). These amounts are based on market values of equivalent instruments at the balance sheet date, comprising £nil (2018: £14.2 million) liabilities included in trade and other payables.

Changes in the fair value relating to the ineffective portion of interest rate swaps amounted to a gain of £1.0 million (2018: £0.9 million) which is included in the revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments for the year. This gain resulted from a £13.3 million loss on hedging instruments and a £14.3 million gain on hedged items.

27. Financial instruments (continued)

An analysis of the Group’s financial assets and liabilities by accounting classification is set out below:

	Held at fair value through profit or loss			Held at fair  value through other comprehensive income		Amortised cost			Carrying value
	£m					£m			£m
2019
Other investments		255.7			242.6		–			498.3
Cash and short-term deposits1		–			–		11,305.7			11,305.7
Bank overdrafts, bonds and bank loans1		–			–		(8,798.0	)		(8,798.0	)
Bonds and bank loans		–			–		(4,047.3	)		(4,047.3	)
Trade and other receivables: amounts falling due within one year		–			–		7,530.8			7,530.8
Trade and other receivables: amounts falling due after more than one year		–			–		59.3			59.3
Trade and other payables: amounts falling due within one year		–			–		(10,191.6	)		(10,191.6	)
Trade and other payables: amounts falling due after more than one year		–			–		(2.6	)		(2.6	)
Derivative assets		1.4			–		–			1.4
Derivative liabilities2		(22.7	)		–		–			(22.7	)
Payments due to vendors (earnout agreements) (note 20)2		(243.7	)		–		–			(243.7	)
Liabilities in respect of put options2		(204.5	)		–		–			(204.5	)
		(213.8	)		242.6		(4,143.7	)		(4,114.9	)

F-40

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

27. Financial instruments (continued)

	Derivatives in designated hedge relationships		Held at fair value through profit or loss			Held at fair  value through other comprehensive income		Amortised cost			Carrying value
	£m		£m			£m		£m			£m
2018
Other investments		–		319.6			347.1		–			666.7
Cash and short-term deposits1		–		–			–		11,065.8			11,065.8
Bank overdrafts, bonds and bank loans1		–		–			–		(9,447.7	)		(9,447.7	)
Bonds and bank loans		–		–			–		(5,634.8	)		(5,634.8	)
Trade and other receivables: amounts falling due within one year		–		–			–		8,545.6			8,545.6
Trade and other receivables: amounts falling due after more than one year		–		–			–		68.3			68.3
Trade and other payables: amounts falling due within one year		–		–			–		(10,637.3	)		(10,637.3	)
Trade and other payables: amounts falling due after more than one year		–		–			–		(8.4	)		(8.4	)
Derivative assets		–		9.7			–		–			9.7
Derivative liabilities		(14.2)		(2.6	)		–		–			(16.8	)
Payments due to vendors (earnout agreements) (note 20)2		–		(400.8	)		–		–			(400.8	)
Liabilities in respect of put options2		–		(208.0	)		–		–			(208.0	)
		(14.2)		(282.1	)		347.1		(6,048.5	)		(5,997.7	)

Notes

¹  Figures have been restated to be in accordance with IAS 32 Financial Instruments: Presentation, as described in the accounting policies.

²  Figures have been restated to be in accordance with IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, as described in the accounting policies.

The following table provides an analysis of financial instruments that are measured subsequent to initial recognition at fair value, grouped into levels 1 to 3 based on the degree to which the fair value is observable:

Level 1 fair value measurements are those derived from quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities;

Level 2 fair value measurements are those derived from inputs other than quoted prices included within level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly (ie as prices) or indirectly (ie derived from prices);

27. Financial instruments (continued)

Level 3 fair value measurements are those derived from valuation techniques that include inputs for the asset or liability that are not based on observable market data (unobservable inputs).

	Level 1 £m		Level  21 £m			Level  31 £m
2019
Held at fair value through profit or loss
Other investments		–		–			255.7
Derivative assets		–		1.4			–
Derivative liabilities		–		(22.7	)		–
Payments due to vendors (earnout agreements) (note 20)		–		–			(243.7	)
Liabilities in respect of put options		–		–			(204.5	)
Held at fair value through other comprehensive income
Other investments		42.2		–			200.4

	Level 1 £m		Level 2 £m			Level 3 £m
2018
Derivatives in designated hedge relationships
Derivative liabilities		–		(14.2	)		–
Held at fair value through profit or loss
Other investments		0.4		–			319.2
Derivative assets		–		1.3			–
Derivative liabilities		–		(2.6	)		–
Payments due to vendors (earnout agreements) (note 20)		–		–			(400.8	)
Liabilities in respect of put options		–		–			(208.0	)
Held at fair value through other comprehensive income
Other investments		128.1		–			219.0

Note

¹  Figures have been restated to be in accordance with IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, as described in the accounting policies

There have been no transfers between these levels in the years presented.

F-41

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

27. Financial instruments (continued)

Reconciliation of level 3 fair value measurements¹:

	Liabilities in respect of put options £m2			Other investments £m
1 January 2018		(221.7	)		820.3
Gains recognised in the income statement		26.0			61.1
Losses recognised in other comprehensive income		–			(140.6	)
Exchange adjustments		1.1			–
Additions		(37.4	)		35.0
Disposals		–			(237.3	)
Cancellations		2.2			–
Reclassifications from other investments to interests in associates		–			(0.3	)
Settlements		21.8			–
31 December 2018		(208.0	)		538.2
(Losses)/gains recognised in the income statement		(30.1	)		9.1
Losses recognised in other comprehensive income		–			(55.4	)
Exchange adjustments		6.9			–
Additions		(34.8	)		18.2
Disposals		–			(53.4	)
Cancellations		9.7			–
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		31.0			(0.6	)
Settlements		20.8			–
31 December 2019		(204.5	)		456.1

Notes

¹  The reconciliation of payments due to vendors (earnout agreements) is presented in note 20.

²  Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

The fair values of financial assets and liabilities are based on quoted market prices where available. Where the market value is not available, the Group has estimated relevant fair values on the basis of publicly available information from outside sources. There have been no movements between level 3 and other levels.

Payments due to vendors and liabilities in respect of put options

Future anticipated payments due to vendors in respect of contingent consideration (earnout agreements) are recorded at fair value, which is the present value of the expected cash outflows of the obligations. Liabilities in respect of put option agreements are initially recorded at the present value of the redemption amount in accordance with IAS 32. After recognition, the liability is remeasured in accordance with IFRS 9 and is subject to the estimation of future performance of the business acquired. Changes in the estimation result in re-measurement of the liability through the income statement. Both types of obligations are dependent on the future financial performance of the entity and it is assumed that future profits are in line with Directors’ estimates. The Directors derive their estimates from internal business plans together with financial due diligence performed in connection with the acquisition. At 31 December 2019, the weighted average growth rate in estimating future financial performance was 19.5% (2018: 22.7%), which reflects the prevalence of recent acquisitions in the faster-growing markets and new media sectors. The weighted average risk adjusted discount rate applied to these obligations at 31 December 2019 was 3.2% (2018: 4.1%).

A one percentage point increase or decrease in the growth rate in estimated future financial performance would increase or decrease the combined liabilities due to earnout agreements and put options by approximately £3.8 million (2018: £5.8 million) and £6.6 million (2018: £8.7 million), respectively. A 0.5 percentage point increase or decrease in the risk adjusted discount rate would decrease or increase the combined liabilities by approximately £3.9 million (2018: £6.3 million) and £4.0 million (2018: £6.4 million), respectively. An increase in the liability would result in a loss in the revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments, while a decrease would result in a gain.

Other investments

The fair value of other investments included in level 1 are based on quoted market prices. Other investments included in level 3 are unlisted securities, where market value is not readily available. The Group has estimated relevant fair values on the basis of publicly available information from outside sources using the most appropriate valuation technique, including all external funding rounds, revenue and EBITDA multiples, the share of fund net asset value and discounted cash flows. Certain investments are valued using revenue multiples. An increase or decrease in this multiple of one times revenue would result in an increase or decrease in the value of investments of £53.6 million, which would result in a credit or charge to the income statement of £3.3 million and equity of £50.3 million. The sensitivity to changes in unobservable inputs is specific to each individual investment.

28. Authorised and issued share capital

	Equity ordinary shares			Nominal value £m
Authorised
At 1 January 2017		1,750,000,000			175.0
At 31 December 2017		1,750,000,000			175.0
At 31 December 2018		1,750,000,000			175.0
At 31 December 2019		1,750,000,000			175.0
Issued and fully paid
At 1 January 2017		1,331,880,730			133.2
Exercise of share options		630,822			0.1
At 31 December 2017		1,332,511,552			133.3
Exercise of share options		166,675			-
At 31 December 2018		1,332,678,227			133.3
Exercise of share options		75,625			-
Share cancellations		(4,586,039	)		(0.5	)
At 31 December 2019		1,328,167,813			132.8

Company’s own shares

The Company’s holdings of own shares are stated at cost and represent shares held in treasury and purchases by the Employee Share Ownership Plan (‘ESOP’) trusts of shares in WPP plc for the purpose of funding certain of the Group’s share-based incentive plans.

The trustees of the ESOP purchase the Company’s ordinary shares in the open market using funds provided by the Company. The Company also has an obligation to make regular contributions to the ESOP to enable it to meet its administrative costs. The number and market value of the ordinary shares of the Company held by the ESOP at 31 December 2019 was 9,219,837 (2018: 14,820,994), and £98.3 million (2018: £125.5 million) respectively. The number and market value of ordinary shares held in treasury at 31 December 2019 was 70,787,730 (2018: 70,854,553) and £755.0 million (2018: £599.9 million) respectively.

Share options

WPP Executive Share Option Scheme (WPP)

As at 31 December 2019, unexercised options over ordinary shares of 6,741 have been granted under the WPP Executive Share Option Scheme as follows:

Number of ordinary shares under option	Exercise price per share (£)		Exercise dates
3,696		8.333		2015 - 2022
3,045		10.595		2016 - 2023

WPP Worldwide Share Ownership Programme (WWOP)

As at 31 December 2019, unexercised options over ordinary shares of 2,757,654 and unexercised options over ADRs of 388,854 have been granted under the WPP Worldwide Share Ownership Programme as follows:

Number of ordinary shares under option	Exercise price per share (£)		Exercise dates
82,650		6.268		2014 - 2021
36,500		6.268		2015 - 2021
53,150		7.113		2013 - 2020
25,750		7.113		2014 - 2020
194,079		8.458		2015 - 2022
43,000		13.145		2017 - 2021
1,739,050		13.145		2017 - 2024
4,375		13.145		2018 - 2024
564,975		13.505		2016 - 2023
14,125		13.505		2017 - 2023

Number of ADRs under option	Exercise price per ADR ($)		Exercise dates
24,550		49.230		2014 - 2021
16,530		56.560		2013 - 2020
39,184		67.490		2015 - 2022
166,655		102.670		2017 - 2024
141,935		110.760		2016 - 2023

F-42

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

28. Authorised and issued share capital (continued)

WPP Share Option Plan 2015 (WSOP)

As at 31 December 2019, unexercised options over ordinary shares of 13,413,425 and unexercised options over ADRs of 1,396,745 have been granted under the WPP Worldwide Share Ownership Programme as follows:

Number of ordinary shares under option	Exercise price per share (£)		Exercise dates
18,250		8.372		2021 - 2025
3,406,900		8.372		2021 - 2028
15,500		9.600		2022 - 2026
2,863,975		9.600		2022 - 2029
19,250		13.085		2020 - 2024
2,785,100		13.085		2020 - 2027
55,500		15.150		2018 - 2022
1,952,200		15.150		2018 - 2025
5,375		15.150		2019 - 2025
12,375		17.055		2019 - 2023
2,279,000		17.055		2019 - 2026

Number of ADRs under option	Exercise price per ADR ($)		Exercise dates
347,660		53.140		2021 - 2028
347,105		62.590		2022 - 2029
276,790		88.260		2020 - 2027
236,265		105.490		2020 - 2026
188,925		115.940		2018 - 2025

The aggregate status of the WPP Share Option Plans during 2019 was as follows:

Movements on options granted (represented in ordinary shares)

	1 January 2019		Granted		Exercised			Lapsed			Outstanding 31 December 2019		Exercisable 31 December 2019
WPP		6,741		–		–			–			6,741		6,741
WWOP		5,520,774		–		(71,475	)		(747,375	)		4,701,924		4,701,924
WSOP		18,691,100		4,615,000		(4,150	)		(2,904,800	)		20,397,150		5,249,075
		24,218,615		4,615,000		(75,625	)		(3,652,175	)		25,105,815		9,957,740

Weighted-average exercise price for options over

	1 January 2019		Granted		Exercised		Lapsed		Outstanding 31 December 2019		Exercisable 31 December 2019
Ordinary shares (£)
WPP		9.355		–		–		–		9.355		9.355
WWOP		12.290		–		6.888		12.027		12.421		12.421
WSOP		12.753		9.600		8.372		12.405		12.121		16.164
ADRs ($)
WWOP		95.453		–		47.388		91.622		96.744		96.744
WSOP		84.893		62.590		53.140		82.290		79.798		115.940

Options over ordinary shares

Outstanding

Range of exercise prices £	Weighted average exercise price £		Weighted average contractual life Months
6.268 – 17.055		12.171		90

28. Authorised and issued share capital (continued)

Options over ADRs

Outstanding

Range of exercise prices $	Weighted average exercise price $		Weighted average contractual life Months
49.230 – 115.940		83.488		89

As at 31 December 2019 there was £7.3 million (2018: £8.5 million) of total unrecognised compensation costs related to share options. That cost is expected to be recognised over a weighted average period of 19 months (2018: 20 months).

Share options are satisfied out of newly issued shares.

The weighted average fair value of options granted in the year calculated using the Black-Scholes model was as follows:

	2019		2018		2017
Fair value of UK options (shares)		117.0p		107.0p		112.0p
Fair value of US options (ADRs)		$8.49		$8.09		$9.40
Weighted average assumptions:
UK Risk-free interest rate		0.57%		0.78%		0.57%
US Risk-free interest rate		1.61%		2.74%		2.05%
Expected life (months)		48		48		48
Expected volatility		24%		24%		17%
Dividend yield		3.8%		3.5%		2.9%

Options are issued at an exercise price equal to market value on the date of grant.

The average share price of the Group for the year ended 31 December 2019 was £9.39 (2018: £11.56, 2017: £15.86) and the average ADR price for the same period was $59.93 (2018: $77.31, 2017: $101.86).

Expected volatility is sourced from external market data and represents the historic volatility in the Group’s share price over a period equivalent to the expected option life.

Expected life is based on a review of historic exercise behaviour in the context of the contractual terms of the options, as described in more detail below.

Terms of share option plans

In 2015, the Group introduced the Share Option Plan 2015 to replace both the “all-employee” Worldwide Share Ownership Plan and the discretionary Executive Stock Option Plan. Two kinds of options over ordinary shares can be granted, both with a market value exercise price. Firstly, options can be granted to employees who have worked at a company owned by WPP plc for at least two years which are not subject to performance conditions. Secondly, options may be granted on a discretionary basis subject to the satisfaction of performance conditions.

The Worldwide Share Ownership Programme was open for participation to employees with at least two years’ employment in the Group. It was not available to those participating in other share-based incentive programmes or to Executive Directors. The vesting period for each grant is three years and there are no performance conditions other than continued employment with the Group.

The Executive Stock Option Plan has historically been open for participation to WPP Group Leaders, Partners and High Potential Group. It is not currently offered to Parent Company Executive Directors. The vesting period is three years and performance conditions include achievement of various TSR (Total Shareholder Return) and EPS (Earnings Per Share) objectives, as well as continued employment. The terms of these stock options are such that if, after nine years and eight months, the performance conditions have not been met, then the stock option will vest automatically.

The Group grants stock options with a life of 10 years, including the vesting period.

F-43

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

29. Other reserves

Other reserves comprise the following:

	Capital redemption reserve £m		Equity reserve1 £m			Revaluation reserve £m			Translation reserve1 £m			Total other reserves £m
1 January 2017		2.7		(203.4	)		271.3			1,665.2			1,735.8
Exchange adjustments on foreign currency net investments		–		–			–			(640.1	)		(640.1	)
Gain on revaluation of available for sale investments		–		–			32.1			–			32.1
Recognition and remeasurement of financial instruments		–		(8.7	)		–			–			(8.7	)
31 December 2017		2.7		(212.1	)		303.4			1,025.1			1,119.1
Exchange adjustments on foreign currency net investments		–		–			–			275.0			275.0
Accounting policy change (IFRS 9)1		–		–			(303.4	)		(104.0	)		(407.4	)
Recognition and remeasurement of financial instruments		–		(24.3	)		–			–			(24.3	)
31 December 2018		2.7		(236.4	)		–			1,196.1			962.4
Exchange adjustments on foreign currency net investments		–		–			–			(607.1	)		(607.1	)
Exchange adjustments recycled to the income statement on disposal of discontinued operations		–		–			–			(284.0	)		(284.0	)
Share cancellations		0.5		–			–			–			0.5
Recognition and remeasurement of financial instruments		–		10.6			–			–			10.6
Share purchases – close period commitments		–		(252.3	)		–			–			(252.3	)
31 December 2019		3.2		(478.1	)		–			305.0			(169.9	)

Notes

¹  Figures have been restated to be in accordance with IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, as described in the accounting policies.

²  Due to the adoption of IFRS 9, cumulative gains and losses on revaluation of available for sale investments have been transferred to retained earnings.

30. Acquisitions

The Group accounts for acquisitions in accordance with IFRS 3 Business Combinations. IFRS 3 requires the acquiree’s identifiable assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities (other than non-current assets or disposal groups held for sale) to be recognised at fair value at acquisition date. In assessing fair value at acquisition date, management make their best estimate of the likely outcome where the fair value of an asset or liability may be contingent on a future event. In certain instances, the underlying transaction giving rise to an estimate may not be resolved until some years after the acquisition date. IFRS 3 requires the release to profit of any acquisition reserves which subsequently become excess in the same way as any excess costs over those provided at acquisition date are charged to profit. At each period end management assess provisions and other balances established in respect of acquisitions for their continued probability of occurrence and amend the relevant value accordingly through the consolidated income statement or as an adjustment to goodwill as appropriate under IFRS 3.

Goodwill arising from acquisitions represents the value of synergies with our existing portfolio of businesses and skilled staff to deliver services to our clients.

Non-controlling interests in acquired companies are measured at the non-controlling interests’ proportionate share of the acquiree’s identifiable net assets.

The contribution to revenue and operating profit of acquisitions completed in the year was not material. There were no material acquisitions completed in the year ended 31 December 2019 or between 31 December 2019 and the date the financial statements have been authorised for issue.

30. Acquisitions (continued)

Acquisitions in 2018

The Group acquired a number of subsidiaries in the year. The following table sets out the book values of the identifiable assets and liabilities acquired and their fair value to the Group. The fair value adjustments for certain acquisitions have been determined provisionally at the balance sheet date.

	Book value at acquisition £m			Fair value adjustments £m			Fair value to Group £m
Intangible assets		–			40.3			40.3
Property, plant and equipment		3.1			–			3.1
Cash		5.0			–			5.0
Trade receivables due within one year		43.7			–			43.7
Other current assets		20.3			–			20.3
Total assets		72.1			40.3			112.4
Current liabilities		(42.8	)		–			(42.8	)
Trade and other payables due after one year		(2.4	)		(13.5	)		(15.9	)
Deferred tax liabilities		–			(9.9	)		(9.9	)
Provisions		–			(0.4	)		(0.4	)
Total liabilities		(45.2	)		(23.8	)		(69.0	)
Net assets		26.9			16.5			43.4
Non-controlling interests								(6.3	)
Fair value of equity stake in associate undertakings before acquisition of controlling interest								(3.1	)
Goodwill								141.6
Consideration								175.6
Consideration satisfied by:
Cash								127.4
Payments due to vendors								48.2

Goodwill arising from acquisitions represents the value of synergies with our existing portfolio of businesses and skilled staff to deliver services to our clients. Goodwill that is expected to be deductible for tax purposes is £65.3 million.

Non-controlling interests in acquired companies are measured at the non-controlling interests’ proportionate share of the acquiree’s identifiable net assets.

The contribution to revenue and operating profit of acquisitions completed in the year was not material.

F-44

Notes to the consolidated financial statements (continued)

30. Acquisitions (continued)

Acquisitions in 2017

The Group acquired a number of subsidiaries in the year. The following table sets out the book values of the identifiable assets and liabilities acquired and their fair value to the Group. The fair value adjustments for certain acquisitions have been determined provisionally at the balance sheet date.

	Book value at acquisition £m			Fair value adjustments £m			Fair value to Group £m
Intangible assets		0.8			79.0			79.8
Property, plant and equipment		5.5			–			5.5
Cash		28.9			–			28.9
Trade receivables due within one year		74.4			–			74.4
Other current assets		20.1			–			20.1
Total assets		129.7			79.0			208.7
Current liabilities		(76.0	)		–			(76.0	)
Trade and other payables due after one year		(10.2	)		(20.5	)		(30.7	)
Deferred tax liabilities		–			(16.8	)		(16.8	)
Provisions		(0.1	)		(4.8	)		(4.9	)
Total liabilities		(86.3	)		(42.1	)		(128.4	)
Net assets		43.4			36.9			80.3
Non-controlling interests								(13.9	)
Fair value of equity stake in associate undertakings before acquisition of controlling interest								(5.7	)
Goodwill								314.3
Consideration								375.0
Consideration satisfied by:
Cash								213.7
Payments due to vendors								161.3

Goodwill arising from acquisitions represents the value of synergies with our existing portfolio of businesses and skilled staff to deliver services to our clients. Goodwill that is expected to be deductible for tax purposes is £63.9 million.

Non-controlling interests in acquired companies are measured at the non-controlling interests’ proportionate share of the acquiree’s identifiable net assets.

The contribution to revenue and operating profit of acquisitions completed in the year was not material.

31. Related party transactions

From time to time the Group enters into transactions with its associate undertakings. These transactions were not material for either year presented.

The Group has continuing transactions with Kantar, including sales, purchases, the provision of IT services, subleases and property related items. None of these were material in the period since 5 December 2019 when Kantar became a related party as an associate.

The following amounts were outstanding at 31 December 2019:

	2019 £m
Amounts owed by related parties
Kantar		87.5
Other		87.5
		175.0
Amounts owed to related parties
Kantar		(36.5	)
Other		(49.6	)
		(86.1	)

32. Reconciliation of operating profit to a headline operating profit

Reconciliation of operating profit to a headline operating profit:

Continuing operations:	2019 £m			20181,2 £m			20171 £m
Operating profit		1,295.9			1,245.3			1,577.9
Amortisation and impairment of acquired intangible assets		121.5			201.8			138.0
Goodwill impairment		47.7			176.5			27.1
Gains on disposal of investments and subsidiaries		(40.4	)		(237.9	)		(98.7	)
(Gains)/losses on remeasurement of equity interests arising from a change in scope of ownership		(0.4	)		(2.0	)		0.3
Investment write-downs		7.5			2.0			91.7
Litigation settlement		(16.8	)		–			–
Gain on sale of freehold property in New York		(7.9	)		–			–
Restructuring and transformation costs		153.5			265.5			56.8
Headline operating profit		1,560.6			1,651.2			1,793.1

Notes

¹  Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies.

²  Figures have been restated as described in the accounting policies.

Headline operating profit is one of the metrics that management uses to assess the performance of the business.

F-45

EX-12.1

Exhibit 12.1

Certification

I, Mark Read, certify that:

1. I have reviewed this annual report on Form 20-F/A of WPP plc;

2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the company as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4. The company’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the company and have:

a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the company, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the company’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

d) Disclosed in this report any change in the company’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the period covered by the annual report that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the company’s internal control over financial reporting; and

5. The company’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the company’s auditors and the audit committee of the company’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the company’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the company’s internal control over financial reporting.

Date: 12 February 2021

/s/ Mark Read

Mark Read

Chief Executive Officer

(principal executive officer)

EX-12.2

Exhibit 12.2

Certification

I, John Rogers, certify that:

1. I have reviewed this annual report on Form 20-F/A of WPP plc;

2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the company as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4. The company’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the company and have:

a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the company, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the company’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

d) Disclosed in this report any change in the company’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the period covered by the annual report that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the company’s internal control over financial reporting; and

5. The company’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the company’s auditors and the audit committee of the company’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the company’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the company’s internal control over financial reporting.

Date: 12 February 2021

/s/ John Rogers

John Rogers

Chief Financial Officer

(principal financial officer)

EX-13.1

Exhibit 13.1

CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO 18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350,

AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO SECTION 906

OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

In connection with the Annual Report of WPP plc (the “Company”) on Form 20-F/A for the period ending 31 December 2019 (the “Report”), I, Mark Read, Chief Executive Officer of the Company, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that:

1) The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and

2) The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the Company’s financial position and results of operations.

Date: 12 February 2021

/s/ Mark Read

Mark Read

Chief Executive Officer

(principal executive officer)

EX-13.2

Exhibit 13.2

CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO 18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350,

AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO SECTION 906

OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

In connection with the Annual Report of WPP plc (the “Company”) on Form 20-F/A for the period ending 31 December 2019 (the “Report”), I, John Rogers, Chief Financial Officer of the Company, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that:

1) The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and

2) The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the Company’s financial position and results of operations.

Date: 12 February 2021

/s/ John Rogers

John Rogers

Chief Financial Officer

(principal financial officer)

EX-14.1

Exhibit 14.1

CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

We consent to the incorporation by reference in Registration Statement No. 333-06378, No. 333-103888, No. 333-108149, No. 333-129640, No. 333-129733, No. 333-152662, No. 333-157729, No. 333-185886, No. 333-185887, No. 333-185889, No. 333-185890, No. 333-208658, No. 333-208660, No. 333-208661 and 333-232174 on Form S-8 of our report dated 30 April 2020 (12 February 2021 as to the effects of the restatement discussed in the Accounting Policies to the consolidated financial statements) relating to the consolidated statements of WPP plc and our report dated 30 April 2020 (12 February 2021 as to the effects of the material weaknesses as a result of the restatement of the previously issued consolidated financial statements described in Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting (as revised)) on the effectiveness of WPP plc’s internal control over financial reporting, appearing in this Annual Report on Form 20-F/A for the year ended 31 December 2019.

/s/ Deloitte LLP

London, United Kingdom

12 February 2021

XML

Cover Page	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019 shares
Entity Information [Line Items]
Document Type	20-F/A
Amendment Flag	true
Document Period End Date	Dec. 31, 2019
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2019
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Entity Registrant Name	WPP plc
Entity Central Index Key	0000806968
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	Yes
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Emerging Growth Company	false
Entity Shell Company	false
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding	1,328,167,813
Entity Address, Country	GB
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Interactive Data Current	Yes
Document Annual Report	true
Document Transition Report	false
Document Shell Company Report	false
Entity Accounting Standard	International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board
Amendment Description	Explanatory Note This Amendment on Form 20-F/A is being filed by WPP plc (“the Company”) as Amendment No. 1 (this “Amendment”) to its annual report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended 31 December 2019 (the “Original Filing”) originally filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on 30 April 2020 (the “Original Filing Date”). As indicated on our Form 6-K furnished to the SEC on 14 December 2020, it was determined that the Company’s previously issued financial statements for the years ended 31 December 2019, 2018 and 2017 contained errors with respect to certain aspects of the application of IAS 32 Financial Instruments: Presentation and IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, resulting in the incorrect presentation of the Company’s notional cash pooling arrangements on the balance sheet and the inappropriate deferral of foreign exchange movements in the Company’s translation reserve due to the inappropriate application of hedge accounting in respect of non-derivative financial instruments, respectively. We have also determined that the discount rate used in the calculation of the present value of the expected cash outflows in respect of put option agreements and payments due to vendors (earnout agreements) did not fully reflect the risk in the associated cash flows.To correct these errors, in this Amendment we are restating our consolidated balance sheets as at 31 December 2019, 2018 and 2017, and our consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, and changes in equity for the years ended 31 December 2019, 2018 and 2017. The consolidated balance sheet as at 31 December 2017 has been included and restated in this Amendment to comply with the requirements of IFRS as a result of the restatement. The consolidated financial statements as at and for the years ended 31 December 2019, 2018 and 2017 are collectively referred to as the “Restated Financial Statements”. The adjustments to correct the notional cash pooling matters were limited to balance sheet adjustments in both cash and short-term deposits and bank overdrafts, bonds and bank loans that result in an aggregate increase in both of £8.337 billion, £8.423 billion and £9.460 billion in the Company’s consolidated balance sheets as at 31 December 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively. The adjustments to correct the net investment hedging matters have resulted in reclassifying exchange adjustments on foreign currency net investments within the Company’s consolidated statement of comprehensive income to be reported together with revaluation of financial instruments on the face of the Company’s consolidated income statement as revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments and separately disclosed in the notes to the consolidated financial statements, amounting to a £245.7 million gain, £205.1 million loss and £194.6 million gain for the years ended 31 December 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively. Corresponding adjustments to other reserves and retained earnings on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets and statements of changes in equity were made. This change also reduced the opening retained earnings balance as at 1 January 2017 by £506.9 million with a corresponding increase in other reserves. The adjustments to correct the put option and payments due to vendors (earnout) discount rate have resulted in adjustments to the Company’s consolidated balance sheet, decreasing trade and other payables (current and non-current liabilities) by £32.4 million, £47.9 million and £82.6 million as at 31 December 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively; increasing other reserves by £59.6 million, £51.5 million and £45.1 million as at 31 December 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively; and decreasing intangible assets: goodwill by £60.1 million, £70.2 million and £78.3 million as at 31 December 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively. The Company’s consolidated income statement has also been adjusted to reflect charges to revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments of £13.5 million, £40.6 million and £47.5 million for the years ended 31 December 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively and a £7.4 million reduction in the goodwill impairment charge for the year ended 31 December 2018. Corresponding adjustments to retained earnings on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets and statements of changes in equity were made. These changes also increased the opening retained earnings balance as at 1 January 2017 by £6.8 million. These adjustments are described more fully in the accounting policies discussion and notes 3, 6, 14 and 27 of the accompanying consolidated financial statements. In addition to the Restated Financial Statements, this amendment is being filed to amend Items 3A “Key information – Selected Financial Data”, 3D “Key Information – Risk Factors – Internal control over financial reporting”, 5 “Operating and Financial Review and Prospects”, 6 “Directors, Senior Management and Employees – C. Board Practices – Audit Committee – Financial reporting and significant financial judgements – Goodwill impairments”, 6 “Directors, Senior Management and Employees – C. Board Practices – Audit Committee – Internal financial control”, 15 “Controls and Procedures”, 18 “Financial Statements”, and 19 “Exhibits”, in each case, solely to make appropriate changes to reflect the corrections made in the Restated Financial Statements, the effects of those corrections and other related matters. As described more fully in Item 15, as a result of the filing of the Restated Financial Statements, our management has updated its assessments as of 31 December 2019 of our disclosure controls and procedures and our internal control over financial reporting and the bases for why neither was effective as at 31 December 2019. This Amendment also includes currently dated certifications from our Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer, as required by Sections 302 and 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, and amended reports of our independent registered public accounting firm relating to the audit of the Restated Financial Statements and of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting. We have made no other changes to our Original Filing, and the other Items and disclosures included in this Amendment are included for the convenience of the reader only and have not been updated to reflect events occurring after the Original Filing Date. Accordingly, except as expressly modified to reflect the impact of the corrections made in the Restated Financial Statements, this Amendment continues to speak only as of the Original Filing Date. Since this Amendment restates the financial information for the 2018 and 2017 fiscal years, we do not intend to amend our previously filed Annual Reports on Form 20-F for periods ended prior to 31 December 2019. As a result, you should rely upon the Restated Financial Statements contained in this Amendment with respect to such prior fiscal years. In addition, we are furnishing a Form 6-K/A to similarly restate our condensed consolidated balance sheets as at 30 June 2020 and 2019 and 31 December 2019, and our condensed consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, changes in equity for the six months ended 30 June 2020 and 2019 and the year ended 31 December 2019. Please refer to that report for further detail and review the Original Filing and this Amendment together with that report.
ICFR Auditor Attestation Flag	true
Ordinary shares [member]
Entity Information [Line Items]
Trading Symbol	WPP
Title of 12(b) Security	Ordinary Shares of 10p each
Security Exchange Name	NONE
American depositary shares [member]
Entity Information [Line Items]
Trading Symbol	WPP
Title of 12(b) Security	American Depositary Shares, each representing five Ordinary Shares (ADSs)
Security Exchange Name	NYSE

XML

Consolidated Income Statement - GBP (£) £ in Millions		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018		Dec. 31, 2017
Profit or loss [abstract]
Revenue	[1]	£ 13,234.1	£ 13,046.7	[2],[3]	£ 13,146.4	[2],[3]
Costs of services	[2]	(10,825.1)	(10,559.1)	[3]	(10,481.6)	[3]
Gross profit	[2]	2,409.0	2,487.6	[3]	2,664.8	[3]
General and administrative costs	[2]	(1,113.1)	(1,242.3)	[3]	(1,086.9)	[3]
Operating profit	[2]	1,295.9	1,245.3	[3]	1,577.9	[3]
Share of results of associates	[2]	14.7	30.5	[3]	98.0	[3]
Profit before interest and taxation	[2]	1,310.6	1,275.8	[3]	1,675.9	[3]
Finance and investment income	[2]	99.0	98.9	[3]	89.0	[3]
Finance costs	[2]	(359.1)	(279.1)	[3]	(261.9)	[3]
Revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments	[2]	163.8	(76.3)	[3]	391.0	[3]
Profit before taxation	[4]	1,214.3	1,019.3	[5]	1,894.0	[5]
Taxation	[2]	(275.0)	(256.0)	[3],[4]	(83.0)	[3],[4]
Profit for the year from continuing operations	[2]	939.3	763.3	[3]	1,811.0	[3]
Profit for the year from discontinued operations	[2]	10.8	137.8	[3]	248.4	[3]
Profit for the year	[2]	950.1	901.1	[3]	2,059.4	[3]
Attributable to:
Continuing operations	[2]	860.1	698.2	[3]	1,726.6	[3]
Discontinued operations	[2]	(3.8)	126.4	[3]	237.1	[3]
Total Equity holders of the parent	[2]	856.3	824.6	[3]	1,963.7	[3]
Continuing operations	[2]	79.2	65.1	[3]	84.4	[3]
Discontinued operations	[2]	14.6	11.4	[3]	11.3	[3]
Non-controlling interests	[2]	93.8	76.5	[3]	95.7	[3]
Profit for the year	[2]	£ 950.1	£ 901.1	[3]	£ 2,059.4	[3]
Earnings per share
Basic earnings per ordinary share	[2]	£ 0.685	£ 0.661	[3]	£ 1.557	[3]
Diluted earnings per ordinary share	[2]	0.679	0.654	[3]	1.539	[3]
Basic earnings (loss) per share from discontinued operations	[2]	0.685	0.661	[3]	1.557	[3]
Diluted earnings (loss) per share from discontinued operations	[2]	0.679	0.654	[3]	1.539	[3]
Basic earnings (loss) per share from continuing operations	[2]	0.688	0.560	[3]	1.369	[3]
Diluted earnings (loss) per share from continuing operations	[2]	£ 0.682	£ 0.554	[3]	£ 1.353	[3]

[1] Intersegment sales have not been separately disclosed as they are not material.

[2] Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

[3] Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies.

[4] Profit before taxation has been restated to be in accordance with IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, as described in the accounting policies.

[5] Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies. As a result Data Investment Management is now excluded from the segment analysis.

XML

Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income - GBP (£) £ in Millions		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018		Dec. 31, 2017
Statement of comprehensive income [abstract]
Profit for the year	[1]	£ 950.1	£ 901.1	[2]	£ 2,059.4	[2]
Items that may be reclassified subsequently to profit or loss:
Exchange adjustments on foreign currency net investments	[1]	(625.1)	284.0		(659.8)
Exchange adjustments recycled to the income statement on disposal of discontinued operations	[1]	(284.0)
Gain on revaluation of available for sale investments	[1]				32.1
Items that may be reclassified subsequently to profit or loss		(909.1)	284.0		(627.7)
Items that will not be reclassified subsequently to profit or loss:
Actuarial (loss)/gain on defined benefit pension plans	[1]	(36.6)	8.9		17.0
Deferred tax on defined benefit pension plans	[1]	6.4	(0.7)		(24.6)
Movements on equity investments held at fair value through other comprehensive income	[1]	(141.4)	(247.9)
Items that will not be reclassified subsequently to profit or loss		(171.6)	(239.7)		(7.6)
Other comprehensive (loss)/income for the year	[1]	(1,080.7)	44.3		(635.3)
Total comprehensive (loss)/income for the year	[1]	(130.6)	945.4		1,424.1
Equity holders of the parent:
Continuing operations		180.0	697.7		1,205.4
Discontinued operations		(386.4)	162.2		142.7
Total Equity holders of the parent		(206.4)	859.9		1,348.1
Continuing operations		61.9	73.8		65.2
Discontinued operations		13.9	11.7		10.8
Total Non-controlling interests		75.8	85.5		76.0
Total comprehensive (loss)/income for the year	[1]	£ (130.6)	£ 945.4		£ 1,424.1

[1] Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

[2] Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies.

XML

Consolidated Cash Flow Statement - GBP (£) £ in Millions		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Statement of cash flows [abstract]
Net cash inflow from operating activities	[1]	£ 1,850.5	£ 1,693.8	£ 1,408.1
Investing activities
Acquisitions		(161.3)	(283.7)	(477.5)
Disposal of investments and subsidiaries		2,141.0	833.9	296.0
Purchases of property, plant and equipment		(339.3)	(314.8)	(288.9)
Purchases of other intangible assets (including capitalised computer software)		(54.8)	(60.4)	(37.3)
Proceeds on disposal of property, plant and equipment		174.0	9.5	8.0
Net cash inflow/(outflow) from investing activities		1,759.6	184.5	(499.7)
Financing activities
Repayment of lease liabilities		(249.8)
Share option proceeds		0.6	1.2	6.4
Cash consideration for non-controlling interests		(62.7)	(109.9)	(47.3)
Share repurchases and buybacks		(43.8)	(207.1)	(504.2)
Net (decrease)/increase in borrowings		(1,713.2)	(440.6)	599.6
Financing and share issue costs		(6.4)	(3.8)	(0.8)
Equity dividends paid		(750.5)	(747.4)	(751.5)
Dividends paid to non-controlling interests in subsidiary undertakings		(96.2)	(106.2)	(87.8)
Net cash outflow from financing activities		(2,922.0)	(1,613.8)	(785.6)
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents		688.1	264.5	122.8
Translation of cash and cash equivalents		(89.7)	(61.5)	(27.2)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year		2,201.2	1,998.2	1,902.6
Cash and cash equivalents including cash held in disposal group at end of year		2,799.6	2,201.2	1,998.2
Cash and cash equivalents held in disposal group presented as held for sale		(66.3)
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year		£ 2,733.3	£ 2,201.2	£ 1,998.2

[1] Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

XML

Consolidated Balance Sheet - GBP (£) £ in Millions		Dec. 31, 2019		Dec. 31, 2018		Dec. 31, 2017
Non-current assets
Goodwill	[1]	£ 10,110.6		£ 13,132.6		£ 12,874.6
Other	[1]	1,468.8		1,842.0		2,018.4
Property, plant and equipment	[1]	876.0		1,083.0		979.5
Right-of-use assets	[1]	1,734.5
Interests in associates and joint ventures	[1]	813.0		796.8		1,065.2
Other investments	[1]	498.3		666.7		1,153.5
Deferred tax assets	[1]	187.9		153.0		160.3
Trade and other receivables	[1]	137.6		180.0		176.2
Non-current assets	[1]	15,826.7		17,854.1		18,427.7
Current assets
Corporate income tax recoverable	[1]	165.4		198.7		234.7
Trade and other receivables	[1]	11,822.3		13,101.5		12,530.7
Cash and short-term deposits	[1]	11,305.7		11,065.8		11,851.0
Subtotal of current assets before including assets classified as held for sale	[1]	23,293.4		24,366.0		24,616.4
Assets classified as held for sale	[1]	485.3
Total of current assets after including assets classified as held for sale	[1]	23,778.7		24,366.0		24,616.4
Current liabilities
Trade and other payables	[1]	(14,188.1)		(15,021.9)		(14,239.5)
Corporate income tax payable	[1]	(499.9)		(545.9)		(649.3)
Short-term lease liabilities	[1]	(302.2)
Bank overdrafts, bonds and bank loans	[1]	(8,798.0)	[2]	(9,447.7)	[2]	(10,083.7)
Current liabilities other than liabilities included in disposal groups classified as held for sale	[1]	(23,788.2)		(25,015.5)		(24,972.5)
Liabilities associated with assets classified as held for sale	[1]	(170.4)
Total of current liabilities after including liabilitites associated with assets as held for sale	[1]	(23,958.6)		(25,015.5)		(24,972.5)
Net current liabilities	[1]	(179.9)		(649.5)		(356.1)
Total assets less current liabilities	[1]	15,646.8		17,204.6		18,071.6
Non-current liabilities
Bonds and bank loans	[1]	(4,047.3)		(5,634.8)		(6,250.4)
Trade and other payables	[1]	(449.6)	[3]	(810.0)	[3]	(911.7)
Deferred tax liabilities	[1]	(379.8)		(479.5)		(513.7)
Provision for post-employment benefits	[1]	(159.0)		(184.3)		(206.3)
Provisions for liabilities and charges	[1]	(247.8)		(311.7)		(229.0)
Long-term lease liabilities	[1]	(1,947.5)
Non-current liabilities	[1]	(7,231.0)		(7,420.3)		(8,111.1)
Net assets	[1]	8,415.8		9,784.3		9,960.5
Equity
Called-up share capital	[1]	132.8		133.3		133.3
Share premium account	[1]	570.3		569.7		568.5
Other reserves	[1]	(169.9)		962.4		1,119.1
Own shares	[1]	(1,178.7)		(1,255.7)		(1,171.1)
Retained earnings	[1]	8,689.9		8,950.2		8,841.9
Equity shareholders' funds	[1]	8,044.4		9,359.9		9,491.7
Non-controlling interests	[1]	371.4		424.4		468.8
Total equity	[1]	£ 8,415.8		£ 9,784.3		£ 9,960.5

[1] Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

[2] Figures have been restated to be in accordance with IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, as described in the accounting policies of the consolidated financial statements.

[3] Figures have been restated to be in accordance with IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, as described in the accounting policies.

XML

Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity - GBP (£) £ in Millions		Total		Called-up share capital [member]	Share premium account [member]	Other reserves [member]		Own shares [member]	Retained earnings [member]		Total equity shareholder's funds [member]		Non-controlling interests [member]
Beginning balance at Dec. 31, 2016		£ 9,812.2	[1]	£ 133.2	£ 562.2	£ 1,735.8	[1]	£ (962.0)	£ 7,899.9	[1]	£ 9,369.1	[1]	£ 443.1
Ordinary shares issued		6.4	[1]	0.1	6.3						6.4	[1]
Treasury share additions		(289.6)	[1]					(289.6)			(289.6)	[1]
Treasury share allocations								112.2	(112.2)	[1]
Profit for the year		2,059.4	[1],[2]						1,963.7	[1]	1,963.7	[1]	95.7
Exchange adjustments on foreign currency net investments		(659.8)	[1]			(640.1)	[1]				(640.1)	[1]	(19.7)
Gain on revaluation of available for sale investments	[1]	32.1				32.1					32.1
Actuarial gain(loss) on defined benefit pension plans	[1]	17.0							17.0		17.0
Deferred tax on defined benefit pension plans	[1]	(24.6)							(24.6)		(24.6)
Other comprehensive income/(loss)		(635.3)	[1]			(608.0)	[1]		(7.6)	[1]	(615.6)	[1]	(19.7)
Total comprehensive (loss)/income		1,424.1	[1]			(608.0)	[1]		1,956.1	[1]	1,348.1	[1]	76.0
Dividends paid		(839.3)	[1]						(751.5)	[1]	(751.5)	[1]	(87.8)
Non-cash share-based incentive plans (including share options)	[1]	105.0							105.0		105.0
Tax adjustment on share-based payments	[1]	3.0							3.0		3.0
Net movement in own shares held by ESOP Trusts		(214.6)	[1]					(31.7)	(182.9)	[1]	(214.6)	[1]
Recognition/remeasurement of financial instruments	[1]	(20.4)				(8.7)			(11.7)		(20.4)
Acquisition of subsidiaries	[3]	(26.3)	[1]						(63.8)	[1]	(63.8)	[1]	37.5
End of year, restated at Dec. 31, 2017		9,960.5	[1]	133.3	568.5	1,119.1	[1]	(1,171.1)	8,841.9	[1]	9,491.7	[1]	468.8
Accounting policy change (IFRS 9)	[1]					(407.4)			407.4
Beginning balance, restated at Dec. 31, 2017		9,960.5	[1]	133.3	568.5	711.7	[1]	(1,171.1)	9,249.3	[1]	9,491.7	[1]	468.8
Ordinary shares issued		1.2	[1]		1.2						1.2	[1]
Treasury share additions		(104.3)	[1]					(104.3)			(104.3)	[1]
Treasury share allocations								1.5	(1.5)	[1]
Profit for the year		901.1	[1],[2]						824.6	[1]	824.6	[1]	76.5
Exchange adjustments on foreign currency net investments		284.0	[1]			275.0	[1]				275.0	[1]	9.0
Movements on equity investments held at fair value through other comprehensive income	[1]	(247.9)							(247.9)		(247.9)
Actuarial gain(loss) on defined benefit pension plans	[1]	8.9							8.9		8.9
Deferred tax on defined benefit pension plans	[1]	(0.7)							(0.7)		(0.7)
Other comprehensive income/(loss)		44.3	[1]			275.0	[1]		(239.7)	[1]	35.3	[1]	9.0
Total comprehensive (loss)/income		945.4	[1]			275.0	[1]		584.9	[1]	859.9	[1]	85.5
Dividends paid		(853.6)	[1]						(747.4)	[1]	(747.4)	[1]	(106.2)
Non-cash share-based incentive plans (including share options)	[1]	84.8							84.8		84.8
Tax adjustment on share-based payments	[1]	(1.2)							(1.2)		(1.2)
Net movement in own shares held by ESOP Trusts	[1]	(102.8)						18.2	(121.0)		(102.8)
Recognition/remeasurement of financial instruments	[1]	(13.9)				(24.3)			10.4		(13.9)
Acquisition of subsidiaries	[4]	(131.8)	[1]						(108.1)	[1]	(108.1)	[1]	(23.7)
End of year, restated at Dec. 31, 2018		9,784.3	[1]	133.3	569.7	962.4	[1]	(1,255.7)	8,950.2	[1]	9,359.9	[1]	424.4
Accounting policy change (IFRS 16)	[1],[5]	(128.9)							(128.9)		(128.9)
Deferred tax on accounting policy change (IFRS 16)	[1],[5]	27.8							27.8		27.8
Beginning balance, restated at Dec. 31, 2018		9,683.2		133.3	569.7	962.4	[1]	(1,255.7)	8,849.1	[1]	9,258.8	[1]	424.4
Ordinary shares issued		0.6	[1]		0.6						0.6	[1]
Treasury share additions		(43.8)
Share cancellations		(47.7)	[1]	(0.5)		0.5	[1]		(47.7)	[1]	(47.7)	[1]
Treasury share allocations		0.0	[1]					1.0	(1.0)	[1]
Profit for the year		950.1	[1]						856.3	[1]	856.3	[1]	93.8
Exchange adjustments recycled to the income statement on disposal of discontinued operations	[1]	(284.0)				(284.0)					(284.0)
Exchange adjustments on foreign currency net investments		(625.1)	[1]			(607.1)	[1]				(607.1)	[1]	(18.0)
Movements on equity investments held at fair value through other comprehensive income	[1]	(141.4)							(141.4)		(141.4)
Actuarial gain(loss) on defined benefit pension plans	[1]	(36.6)							(36.6)		(36.6)
Deferred tax on defined benefit pension plans	[1]	6.4							6.4		6.4
Other comprehensive income/(loss)		(1,080.7)	[1]			(891.1)	[1]		(171.6)	[1]	(1,062.7)	[1]	(18.0)
Total comprehensive (loss)/income		(130.6)	[1]			(891.1)	[1]		684.7	[1]	(206.4)	[1]	75.8
Dividends paid		(846.7)	[1]						(750.5)	[1]	(750.5)	[1]	(96.2)
Non-cash share-based incentive plans (including share options)	[1]	71.4							71.4		71.4
Tax adjustment on share-based payments	[1]	3.1							3.1		3.1
Net movement in own shares held by ESOP Trusts	[1]							76.0	(76.0)
Recognition/remeasurement of financial instruments	[1]	23.7				10.6			13.1		23.7
Share purchases – close period commitments	[1],[6]	(252.3)				(252.3)					(252.3)
Acquisition of subsidiaries	[4]	(88.9)	[1]						(56.3)	[1]	(56.3)	[1]	(32.6)
End of year, restated at Dec. 31, 2019		£ 8,415.8	[1]	£ 132.8	£ 570.3	£ (169.9)	[1]	£ (1,178.7)	£ 8,689.9	[1]	£ 8,044.4	[1]	£ 371.4

[1] Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

[2] Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies.

[3] Other reserves are analysed in note 29.

[4] Acquisition of subsidiaries represents movements in retained earnings and non-controlling interests arising from changes in ownership of existing subsidiaries and recognition of non-controlling interests on new acquisitions.

[5] The impact of the adoption of IFRS 16 Leases from 1 January 2019 is described in the accounting policies.

[6] During 2019, the Company entered into an arrangement with a third party to conduct share buybacks on its behalf in the close period commencing on 2 January 2020 and ending on 27 February 2020, in accordance with UK listing rules. The commitment resulting from this agreement constitutes a liability at 31 December 2019, which is included in Trade and other payables: amounts falling due within one year and has been recognised as a movement in equity.

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Accounting policies

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

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Accounting policies

Accounting policies

The consolidated financial statements of WPP plc and its subsidiaries (the Group) for the year ended 31 December 2019 have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board as they apply to the financial statements of the Group for the year ended 31 December 2019.

Basis of preparation

The consolidated financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention, except for the revaluation of certain financial instruments and held for sale assets. The financial statements have been prepared using the going concern basis of accounting. The principal accounting policies are set out below.

The financial statements were originally approved by the Board of Directors and authorized for issue on 30 April 2020, and have been amended as of 12 February 2021 solely to correct the matters described below under the Restatement subheading.

Basis of consolidation

The consolidated financial statements include the results of the Company and all its subsidiary undertakings made up to the same accounting date. All intra-Group balances, transactions, income and expenses are eliminated in full on consolidation. The results of subsidiary undertakings acquired or disposed of during the period are included or excluded from the consolidated income statement from the effective date of acquisition or disposal.

Restatement

After the consolidated financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2019 were issued it was determined that they did not comply with certain elements of the application of IAS 32 Financial Instruments: Presentation and IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, resulting in the incorrect presentation of the Company’s notional cash pooling arrangements on the balance sheet and the inappropriate deferral of foreign exchange movements in the Company’s translation reserve due to the inappropriate application of hedge accounting in respect of non-derivative financial instruments and the inappropriate discount rate being applied in the calculation of the fair value of liabilities in respect of put option agreements and payments due to vendors (earnout agreements).

Therefore, there has been a restatement of the years ended 31 December 2019, 31 December 2018, and 31 December 2017. The impact of this change is to increase cash and short-term deposits and bank overdrafts, bonds and bank loans by £8,336.7 million for the year ended 31 December 2019 (2018: £8,422.6 million, 2017: £9,459.6 million), while having no impact on the Company’s debt less cash position. This adjustment does not impact the consolidated income statement or consolidated cash flow statement.

Net investment hedging was inappropriately applied against certain foreign exchange exposures and net investment in foreign operations, where the relationship was either an ineligible hedging relationship under IFRS or insufficiently documented, such that the criteria to apply hedge accounting under IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement were not met. Therefore, there has been a restatement of the years ended 31 December 2019, 2018 and 2017, resulting in the reclassification of gains/losses recognised in exchange adjustments on foreign currency net investments within the consolidated statement of comprehensive income to be reported in the consolidated income statement as revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments (note 6). The impact of this change is a £245.7 million gain for the year ended 31 December 2019 (2018: £205.1 million loss, 2017: £194.6 million gain) being recognised in revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments. This change also reduces the opening retained earnings balance as at 1 January 2017 by £506.9 million with a corresponding increase in the foreign currency translation reserve.

The fair value of liabilities in respect of put option agreements and payments due to vendors (earnout agreements) are recorded at the present value of the expected cash outflows of the obligation. The discount rate historically used in this calculation represented the Company’s cost of debt. To fully reflect the risk in the cash flows, the Company has changed the discount rate used in this calculation, and restated the periods ending 31 December 2019, 2018 and 2017 to reflect the change, which resulted in the following adjustments:

• Liabilities in respect of put options (notes 19 and 20) have decreased by £22.3 million at 31 December 2019 (2018: £34.0 million, 2017: £36.4 million) and a charge of £10.8 million in 2019 (2018: £8.5 million, 2017: £11.8 million) recognised in the consolidated income statement within the revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments (note 6). Other reserves on the consolidated balance sheet increased by £59.6 million at 31 December 2019 (2018: £51.5 million, 2017: £45.1 million);

• Payments due to vendors (earnout agreements) (notes 19 and 20) have decreased by £10.1 million at 31 December 2019 (2018: £13.9 million, 2017: £46.2 million) and a charge of £2.7 million in 2019 (2018: £32.1 million, 2017: £35.7 million) recognised in the consolidated income statement within the revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments (note 6). Goodwill on the consolidated balance sheet decreased by £60.1 million at 31 December 2019 (2018: £70.2 million, 2017: £78.3 million); and

• The goodwill impairment charge (note 3) decreased by £7.4 million in 2018, as a result of the above adjustments that decreased goodwill and payments due to vendors (earnout agreements) on the consolidated balance sheet.

• These changes also increases the opening retained earnings balance as at 1 January 2017 by £6.8 million.

The restatements described in this note resulted in an increase in the basic and diluted earnings per share from continuing and discontinued operations of 18.6p and 18.4p, respectively, for the year ended 31 December 2019 (2018: decrease of 19.1p and 18.9p, respectively; 2017: increase of 11.7p and 11.5p, respectively).

New IFRS accounting pronouncements

In the current year, the following Standards and Interpretations became effective:

• IFRS 16 Leases; and

• IFRIC 23 Uncertainty over Income Tax Treatments.

Impact of the Adoption of IFRS 16 leases

IFRS 16 is effective from 1 January 2019. The standard eliminates the classification of leases as either operating or finance leases and introduces a single accounting model. Lessees are required to recognise a right-of-use asset and related lease liability for their operating leases and show depreciation of leased assets and interest on lease liabilities separately in the income statement. IFRS 16 requires the Group to recognise substantially all of its operating leases on the balance sheet.

The Group adopted IFRS 16 effective 1 January 2019 on a modified retrospective basis and applied the standard retrospectively with the cumulative effect of initially applying the standard recognised at the date of initial application as an adjustment to retained earnings. Accordingly, prior year financial information has not been restated and will continue to be reported under IAS 17 Leases. The right-of-use asset and lease liability have initially been measured at the present value of the remaining lease payments, with the right-of-use asset being subject to certain adjustments. For certain leases the right-of-use asset was measured as if the standard had been applied from the lease commencement date and for others the right-of-use asset was set equal to the lease liability.

When applying IFRS 16, the Group has applied the following practical expedients, on transition date:

• Reliance on the previous identification of a lease (as provided by IAS 17) for all contracts that existed on the date of initial application;

• Reliance on previous assessments on whether leases are onerous instead of performing an impairment review;

• Exclusion of initial direct costs from the measurement of the right-of-use asset at the date of initial application;

• The accounting for operating leases with a remaining lease term of less than 12 months as at 1 January 2019 as short-term leases; and

• The use of hindsight, such as in determining the lease term if the contract contains options to extend or terminate the lease.

The right-of-use asset and lease liability recorded on the consolidated balance sheet as of 1 January 2019 were £1,895.1 million and £2,326.2 million, respectively. There was a reduction in other creditors of £233.5 million and property provisions of £68.7 million with regard to amounts related to property leases, including deferred rent and tenant improvement allowances, which are now recognised in the right-of-use asset. These movements resulted in a decrease to retained earnings of £128.9 million and the recognition of a deferred tax asset of £27.8 million on this movement.

For the year ended 31 December 2019, depreciation of the right-of-use asset and recognition of interest on the lease liability in the consolidated income statement replaced amounts recognised as rent expense under IAS 17. The implementation of IFRS 16 on 1 January 2019 resulted in an increase to operating profit of £61.0 million and a decrease to diluted earnings per share of 1.8p.

The following table reconciles the opening balance for the lease liabilities as at 1 January 2019 based upon the operating lease obligations as at 31 December 2018:

£ million
Operating lease commitments at 31 December 2018	3,628.2
Short-term and low value leases not included in lease liabilities	(73.8	)
Extension options reasonably certain to be exercised	115.1
Signed leases not yet commenced	(598.1	)
Gross lease liabilities at 1 January 2019	3,071.4
Effect of discounting	(745.2	)
Lease liabilities at 1 January 2019	2,326.2

The weighted average discount rate was 5.4% at 1 January 2019.

Impact of the Adoption of IFRIC 23 Uncertainty over Income Tax Treatments

IFRIC 23 clarifies the accounting for uncertainties in income tax and is effective from 1 January 2019. There has been no impact to our financial statements as a result of the adoption of IFRIC 23.

At the date of authorisation of these financial statements, the following amendments to standards, which have not been applied in these financial statements, were in issue but not yet effective:

— Impact of Interest Rate Benchmark Reform, (Amendments to IFRS 9, IAS 39 and IFRS 7)

Impact of Interest Rate Benchmark Reform

The amendments issued by the IASB, Interest Rate Benchmark Reform (Amendments to IFRS 9, IAS 39 and IFRS 7), are mandatory and are effective from 1 January 2020. They provide relief on specific aspects of pre-replacement issues that impact hedge accounting, whereby entities applying hedge accounting requirements will be able to assume that the interest rate benchmark on which the hedged cash flows and cash flows of the hedging instrument are based are not altered as a result of Interest Rate Benchmark Reform. The Group does not consider that these amendments will have a significant impact on the financial statements as they provide relief for the possible effects of the uncertainty arising from interest rate benchmark reform.

Goodwill and other intangible assets

Intangible assets comprise goodwill, certain acquired separable corporate brand names, acquired customer relationships, acquired proprietary tools and capitalised computer software not integral to a related item of hardware.

Goodwill represents the excess of fair value attributed to investments in businesses or subsidiary undertakings over the fair value of the underlying net assets, including intangible assets, at the date of their acquisition.

Goodwill impairment reviews are undertaken annually or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate a potential impairment. The carrying value of goodwill is compared to the recoverable amount, defined as the higher of fair value less costs to sell and value in use. The net present value of future cash flows is derived from the underlying assets using a projection period of up to five years for each cash-generating unit. After the projection period, a steady growth rate representing an appropriate long-term growth rate for the industry is applied. Any impairment is recognised immediately as an expense and is not subsequently reversed.

Corporate brand names, customer relationships and proprietary tools acquired as part of acquisitions of businesses are capitalised separately from goodwill as intangible assets if their value can be measured reliably on initial recognition and it is probable that the expected future economic benefits that are attributable to the asset will flow to the Group.

Certain corporate brands of the Group are considered to have an indefinite economic life because of the institutional nature of the corporate brand names, their proven ability to maintain market leadership and profitable operations over long periods of time and the Group’s commitment to develop and enhance their value. The carrying value of these intangible assets is reviewed at least annually for impairment and adjusted to the recoverable amount if required.

Amortisation is provided at rates calculated to write off the cost less estimated residual value of each asset on a straight-line basis over its estimated useful life as follows:

• Brand names (with finite lives) – 10-20 years.

• Customer-related intangibles – 3-10 years.

• Other proprietary tools – 3-10 years.

• Other (including capitalised computer software) – 3-5 years.

Contingent consideration

Contingent consideration is accounted for in accordance with IFRS 3 Business Combinations. Contingent consideration only applies to situations where contingent payments are not dependent on future employment of vendors and any such payments are expensed when they relate to future employment.

Future anticipated payments to vendors in respect of contingent consideration (earnout agreements) are initially recorded at fair value which is the present value of the expected cash outflows of the obligations. The obligations are dependent on the future financial performance of the interests acquired (typically over a four- to five-year period following the year of acquisition) and assume the operating companies improve profits in line with Directors’ estimates. The Directors derive their estimates from internal business plans together with financial due diligence performed in connection with the acquisition.

Subsequent adjustments to the fair value are recorded in the consolidated income statement within revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments.

Property, plant and equipment

Property, plant and equipment are shown at cost less accumulated depreciation and any provision for impairment with the exception of freehold land which is not depreciated. The Group assesses the carrying value of its property, plant and equipment to determine if any impairment has occurred. Where this indicates that an asset may be impaired, the Group applies the requirements of IAS 36 Impairment of Assets in assessing the carrying amount of the asset. This process includes comparing its recoverable amount with its carrying value. Depreciation is provided at rates calculated to write off the cost less estimated residual value of each asset on a straight-line basis over its estimated useful life, as follows:

• Freehold buildings – 50 years.

• Leasehold land and buildings – over the term of the lease or life of the asset, if shorter.

• Fixtures, fittings and equipment – 3-10 years.

• Computer equipment – 3-5 years.

Interests in associates and joint ventures

An associate is an entity over which the Group has significant influence. In certain circumstances, significant influence may be represented by factors other than ownership and voting rights, such as representation on the Board of Directors.

The Group’s share of the profits less losses of associate undertakings net of tax, interest and non-controlling interests is included in the consolidated income statement and the Group’s share of net assets is shown within interests in associates in the consolidated balance sheet. The Group’s share of the profits less losses and net assets is based on current information produced by the undertakings, adjusted to conform with the accounting policies of the Group.

The Group assesses the carrying value of its associate undertakings to determine if any impairment has occurred. Where this indicates that an investment may be impaired, the Group applies the requirements of IAS 36 in assessing the carrying amount of the investment. This process includes comparing its recoverable amount with its carrying value. The recoverable amount is defined as the higher of fair value less costs to sell and value in use.

The Group accounts for joint venture investments under the equity method which is consistent with the Group’s treatment of associates.

Other investments

Certain equity investments are designated as either fair value through other comprehensive income or fair value through profit or loss. Movements in fair value through profit or loss are recorded in the consolidated income statement within revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments. The Group generally elects to classify equity investments as fair value through other comprehensive income where the Group forms a strategic partnership with the investee.

Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations

Under IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations where certain conditions are met, an asset or disposal group that is for sale should be recognised as “held for sale”. An entity should classify a disposal group as held for sale if the carrying amount will be recovered principally through a sale transaction rather than through continuing use. For this to be the case, the disposal group must be available for immediate sale in its present condition subject only to terms that are usual and customary for sales of such assets and its sale must be highly probable. Such assets are measured at the lower of carrying amount and fair value less costs to sell, and are not depreciated or amortised, excluding certain assets that are carried at fair value under IFRS 5. Furthermore, when an associate is classified as held for sale, equity accounting ceases.

A discontinued operation is a component of the entity that has been disposed of or is classified as held for sale and that represents a separate major line of business or geographical area of operations, or is a subsidiary acquired exclusively with a view to resale. The profit or loss from a discontinued operation is shown as a single amount on the face of the income statement and the comparatives and related notes restated accordingly. This represents total post-tax profit of the disposal group for the whole of the financial year including any post-tax gain or loss on the measurement of fair value less costs to sell, as well as the post-tax loss on sale of the disposal group.

Assets and liabilities classified as held for sale are shown as a separate line on the balance sheet.

Accrued and Deferred Income

Accrued income is a contract asset and is recognised when a performance obligation has been satisfied but has not yet been billed. Contract assets are transferred to receivables when the right to consideration is unconditional and billed per the terms of the contractual agreement.

In certain cases, payments are received from customers or amounts are billed with an unconditional right to receive consideration prior to satisfaction of performance obligations and recognised as deferred income. These balances are considered contract liabilities and are typically related to prepayments for third party expenses that are incurred shortly after billing.

Trade receivables and work in progress

Trade receivables are stated net of provisions for bad and doubtful debts.

Work in progress includes outlays incurred on behalf of clients, including production costs, and other third-party costs that have not yet been billed and are considered receivables under IFRS 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers.

Expected credit losses

The Group has applied the simplified approach to measuring expected credit losses, as permitted by IFRS 9. Therefore the Group does not track changes in credit risk, but recognises a loss allowance based on the financial asset’s lifetime expected credit loss.

Under IFRS 9 Financial Instruments, the expected credit losses are measured as the difference between the asset’s gross carrying amount and the present value of estimated future cash flows discounted at the financial asset’s original effective interest rate. Given the short-term nature of the Group’s trade receivables, work in progress and accrued income, which are mainly due from large national or multinational companies, the Group assessment of expected credit losses includes provisions for specific clients and receivables where the contractual cash flow is deemed at risk. Additional provisions are made based on the assessment of recoverability of aged receivables, where the following criteria are met:

• 100% of the asset aged over 1 year;

• 50% of the asset aged between 180 days and 1 year; and

• sufficient evidence of recoverability is not evident.

Estimated future cash flows represent expectations as at 31 December 2019 and does not consider the impact of the emergence and spread of the Covid-19 virus.

Further details on provisions for bad and doubtful debts are provided in note 18.

Foreign currency and interest rate hedging

The Group’s policy on interest rate and foreign exchange rate management sets out the instruments and methods available to hedge interest and currency risk exposures and the control procedures in place to ensure effectiveness.

The Group uses derivative financial instruments to reduce exposure to foreign exchange risk and interest rate movements. The Group does not hold or issue derivative financial instruments for speculative purposes.

Derivatives are initially recognised at fair value at the date a derivative contract is entered into and are subsequently remeasured to their fair value at each balance sheet date. The resulting gain or loss is recognised in profit or loss immediately unless the derivative is designated and effective as a hedging instrument, in which event the timing of the recognition in profit or loss depends on the nature of the hedge relationship.

At the inception of the hedge relationship the entity documents the relationship between the hedging instrument and hedged item, along with its risk management objectives and its strategy for undertaking various hedge transactions. Furthermore, at the inception of the hedge and on an ongoing basis, the Group documents whether the hedging instrument that is used in a hedging relationship is highly effective in offsetting changes in fair values or cash flows of the hedged item.

Note 27 contains details of the fair values of the derivative instruments used for hedging purposes.

Changes in the fair value of derivatives that are designated and qualify as fair value hedges are recorded in profit or loss immediately, together with any changes in the fair value of the hedged item that is attributable to the hedged risk.

The effective portion of changes in the fair value of derivatives that are designated and qualify as cash flow or net investment hedges is recognised in other comprehensive income and deferred in equity. The gain or loss relating to the ineffective portion is recognised immediately in profit or loss. Amounts deferred in equity are recycled in profit or loss in the periods when the hedged item is recognised in profit or loss. However, when the forecast transaction that is hedged results in the recognition of a non-financial asset or a non-financial liability, the gains and losses previously deferred in equity are transferred from equity and included in the initial measurement of the cost of the asset or liability.

Hedge accounting is discontinued when the hedging instrument expires or is sold, terminated, or exercised, or no longer qualifies for hedge accounting. At that time, any cumulative gain or loss on the hedging instrument recognised in equity is retained in equity until the forecast transaction occurs. If a hedged transaction is no longer expected to occur, the net cumulative gain or loss recognised in equity is transferred to net profit or loss for the period.

Derivatives embedded in other financial instruments or other host contracts are treated as separate derivatives when their risks and characteristics are not closely related to those of host contracts and the host contracts are not carried at fair value with unrealised gains or losses reported in the consolidated income statement.

Liabilities in respect of option agreements

Option agreements that allow the Group’s equity partners to require the Group to purchase a non-controlling interest are treated as derivatives over equity instruments and are recorded in the consolidated balance sheet initially at the present value of the redemption amount in accordance with IAS 32 Financial Instruments: Presentation and subsequently measured at fair value in accordance with IFRS 9 Financial Instruments. The movement in the fair value is recognised as income or expense within revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments in the consolidated income statement.

Derecognition of financial liabilities

In accordance with IFRS 9 Financial Instruments, a financial liability of the Group is only released to the consolidated income statement when the underlying legal obligation is extinguished.

Debt

Interest-bearing debt is recorded at the proceeds received, net of direct issue costs.

Borrowing costs

Finance costs of borrowing are recognised in the consolidated income statement over the term of those borrowings.

Revenue recognition

The Group is a leading worldwide creative transformation organisation offering national and multinational clients a comprehensive range of communications, experience, commerce and technology services. Contracts often involve multiple agencies offering different services in different countries. As such, the terms of local, regional and global contracts can vary to meet client needs and regulatory requirements. Consistent with the industry, contracts are typically short-term in nature and tend to be cancellable by either party with 90 days notice. The Group is generally entitled to payment for work performed to date.

The Group is generally paid in arrears for its services. Invoices are typically payable within 30 to 60 days. Revenue comprises commissions and fees earned in respect of amounts billed and is stated exclusive of VAT, sales taxes and trade discounts. Pass-through costs comprise fees paid to external suppliers when they are engaged to perform part or all of a specific project and are charged directly to clients, predominantly media and data collection costs. Costs to obtain a contract are typically expensed as incurred as the contracts are generally short-term in nature.

In most instances, promised services in a contract are not considered distinct or represent a series of services that are substantially the same with the same pattern of transfer to the customer and, as such, are accounted for as a single performance obligation. However, where there are contracts with services that are capable of being distinct, are distinct within the context of the contract, and are accounted for as separate performance obligations, revenue is allocated to each of the performance obligations based on relative standalone selling prices.

Revenue is recognised when a performance obligation is satisfied, in accordance with the terms of the contractual arrangement. Typically, performance obligations are satisfied over time as services are rendered. Revenue recognised over time is based on the proportion of the level of service performed. Either an input method or an output method, depending on the particular arrangement, is used to measure progress for each performance obligation. For most fee arrangements, costs incurred are used as an objective input measure of performance. The primary input of substantially all work performed under these arrangements is labour. There is normally a direct relationship between costs incurred and the proportion of the contract performed to date. In other circumstances relevant output measures, such as the achievement of any project milestones stipulated in the contract, are used to assess proportional performance.

For our retainer arrangements, we have a stand ready obligation to perform services on an ongoing basis over the life of the contract. The scope of these arrangements are broad and generally are not reconcilable to another input or output criteria. In these instances, revenue is recognised using a time-based method resulting in straight-line revenue recognition.

The amount of revenue recognised depends on whether we act as an agent or as a principal. Certain arrangements with our clients are such that our responsibility is to arrange for a third party to provide a specified good or service to the client. In these cases we are acting as an agent as we do not control the relevant good or service before it is transferred to the client. When we act as an agent, the revenue recorded is the net amount retained. Costs incurred with external suppliers (such as production costs and media suppliers) are excluded from revenue and recorded as work in progress until billed.

The Group acts as principal when we control the specified good or service prior to transfer. When the Group acts as a principal (such as when supplying in-house production services, events, and branding), the revenue recorded is the gross amount billed. Billings related to out-of-pocket costs such as travel are also recognised at the gross amount billed with a corresponding amount recorded as an expense.

Further details on revenue recognition are detailed by sector below:

Global Integrated Agencies

Revenue is typically derived from integrated product offerings including media placements and creative services. Revenue may consist of various arrangements involving commissions, fees, incentive-based revenue or a combination of the three, as agreed upon with each client. Revenue for commissions on purchased media is typically recognised at the point in time the media is run.

The Group receives volume rebates from certain suppliers for transactions entered into on behalf of clients that, based on the terms of the relevant contracts and local law, are either remitted to clients or retained by the Group. If amounts are passed on to clients they are recorded as liabilities until settled or, if retained by the Group, are recorded as revenue when earned.

Variable incentive-based revenue typically comprises both quantitative and qualitative elements. Incentive compensation is estimated using the most likely amount and is included in revenue up to the amount that is highly probable not to result in a significant reversal of cumulative revenue recognised. The Group recognises incentive revenue as the related performance obligation is satisfied.

Public Relations and Specialist Agencies

Revenue for these services is typically derived from retainer fees and fees for services to be performed subject to specific agreement. Most revenue under these arrangements is earned over time, in accordance with the terms of the contractual arrangement.

Discontinued operations (Data Investment Management)

Revenue for market research services is typically recognised over time based on input measures. For certain performance obligations, output measures such as the percentage of interviews completed, percentage of reports delivered to a client and the achievement of any project milestones stipulated in the contract are used to measure progress.

While most of the studies provided in connection with the Group’s market research contracts are undertaken in response to an individual client’s or group of clients’ specifications, in certain instances a study may be developed as an off-the-shelf product offering sold to a broad client base. For these transactions, revenue is recognised when the product is delivered. When the terms of the transaction provide for licensing the right to access a product on a subscription basis, revenue is recognised over the subscription period, typically on a straight-line basis.

Taxation

Corporate taxes are payable on taxable profits at current rates. The tax expense represents the sum of the tax currently payable and deferred tax.

The Group is subject to corporate taxes in a number of different jurisdictions and judgement is required in determining the appropriate provision for transactions where the ultimate tax determination is uncertain. In such circumstances, the Group recognises liabilities for anticipated taxes based on the best information available and where the anticipated liability is both probable and estimable, liabilities are classified as current. Any interest and penalties accrued are included in corporate income taxes both in the consolidated income statement and balance sheet. Where the final outcome of such matters differs from the amount recorded, any differences may impact the income tax and deferred tax provisions in the period in which the final determination is made.

The tax laws that apply to the Group’s subsidiaries may be amended by the relevant tax authorities. Such potential amendments are regularly monitored and adjustments are made to the Group’s tax liabilities and deferred tax assets and liabilities where necessary.

The tax currently payable is based on taxable profit for the year. Taxable profit differs from net profit as reported in the consolidated income statement because it excludes items of income or expense that are taxable or deductible in other years and it further excludes items that are never taxable or deductible. The Group’s liability for current tax is calculated using tax rates that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the balance sheet date.

Deferred tax is the tax expected to be payable or recoverable on differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities in the financial statements and the corresponding tax bases used in the computation of taxable profit, and is accounted for using the balance sheet liability method. Deferred tax liabilities are recognised for all taxable temporary differences unless specifically excepted by IAS 12 Income Taxes. Deferred tax is charged or credited in the consolidated income statement, except when it relates to items charged or credited to other comprehensive income or directly to equity, in which case the deferred tax is also dealt with in other comprehensive income or equity. Deferred tax assets are recognised to the extent that it is probable that taxable profits will be available against which deductible temporary differences can be utilised, which can require the use of accounting estimation and the exercise of judgement. Such assets and liabilities are not recognised if the temporary difference arises from the initial recognition of goodwill or other assets and liabilities (other than in a business combination) in a transaction that affects neither the taxable profit nor the accounting profit.

The carrying amount of deferred tax assets is reviewed at each balance sheet date and reduced to the extent that it is no longer probable that sufficient taxable profits will be available to allow all or part of the asset to be recovered.

Deferred tax liabilities are recognised for taxable temporary differences arising on investments in subsidiaries and associates, and interests in joint ventures, except where the Group is able to control the reversal of the temporary difference and it is probable that the temporary difference will not reverse in the foreseeable future.

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are offset when there is a legally enforceable right to set off current tax assets against current tax liabilities and when they relate to income taxes levied by the same taxation authority and the Group intends to settle its current tax assets and liabilities on a net basis.

Deferred tax is calculated at the tax rates that are expected to apply in the period when the liability is settled or the asset is realised based on enacted or substantively enacted legislation.

Retirement benefit costs

The Group accounts for retirement benefit costs in accordance with IAS 19 Employee Benefits.

For defined contribution plans, contributions are charged to the consolidated income statement as payable in respect of the accounting period.

For defined benefit plans the amounts charged to operating profit are the current service costs, past service costs, administrative expenses and gains and losses on settlements and curtailments. They are included as part of staff costs. Past service costs are recognised immediately in the consolidated income statement when the related plan amendment occurs. Net interest expense is calculated by applying the discount rate to the recognised overall surplus or deficit in the plan.

Actuarial gains and losses are recognised immediately in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income.

Where defined benefit plans are funded, the assets of the plan are held separately from those of the Group, in separate independently managed funds. Pension plan assets are measured at fair value and liabilities are measured on an actuarial basis using the projected unit method and discounted at a rate equivalent to the current rate of return on a high-quality corporate bond of equivalent currency and term to the plan liabilities. The actuarial valuations are obtained at least triennially and are updated at each balance sheet date.

Recognition of a surplus in a defined benefit plan is limited based on the economic gain the Company is expected to benefit from in the future by means of a refund or reduction in future contributions to the plan, in accordance with IAS 19.

Provisions for liabilities and charges

Provisions comprise liabilities where there is uncertainty about the timing of settlement, but where a reliable estimate can be made of the amount. These include provisions for other property-related liabilities. Also included are other provisions, such as certain long-term employee benefits and legal claims, where the likelihood of settlement is considered probable.

Leases

The Group has adopted IFRS 16 Leases from 1 January 2019. The Group leases most of its offices in cities where it operates. Other lease contracts include office equipment and motor vehicles.

At inception of a contract, the Group assesses whether a contract is, or contains, a lease based on whether the contract conveys the right to control the use of an identified asset for a period of time in exchange for consideration.

The Group recognises a right-of-use asset and a lease liability at the lease commencement date. The right-of-use asset is initially measured based on the initial amount of the lease liability adjusted for any lease payments made at or before the commencement date, plus any initial direct costs incurred, less any lease incentives received. The assets are depreciated over the term of the lease using the straight-line method. The lease term includes periods covered by an option to extend if the Group is reasonably certain to exercise that option. Right-of-use assets are reviewed for indicators of impairment.

The lease liability is initially measured at the present value of the lease payments that are not paid at the commencement date, discounted using the interest rate implicit in the lease or, if that rate cannot be readily determined, the Group’s incremental borrowing rate for the same term as the underlying lease. Lease payments included in the measurement of lease liabilities comprise fixed payments less any lease incentives receivable and variable lease payments that depend on an index or a rate as at the commencement date. Lease modifications result in remeasurement of the lease liability.

Depreciation is recognised in both costs of services and general and administrative costs and interest expense is recognised under finance costs in the consolidated income statement.

The Group has elected to use the exemption not to recognise right-of-use assets and lease liabilities for short-term leases that have a lease term of 12 months or less and leases of low-value assets (under $5,000). The payments associated with these leases are recognised as cost of services and general and administrative costs on a straight-line basis over the lease term.

In 2018 and 2017 leases were accounted for per IAS 17 Leases. The following policies were applicable:

Finance Leases

Assets held under finance leases are recognised as assets of the Group at the inception of the lease at the lower of their fair value and the present value of the minimum lease payments. Depreciation on leased assets is charged to the consolidated income statement on the same basis as owned assets. Leasing payments are treated as consisting of capital and interest elements and the interest is charged to the consolidated income statement as it is incurred.

Operating Leases

Operating lease rentals are charged to the consolidated income statement on a straight-line basis over the lease term. Any premium or discount on the acquisition of a lease is spread over the life of the lease on a straight-line basis.

Translation of foreign currencies

Foreign currency transactions arising from normal trading activities are recorded at the rates in effect at the date of the transaction. Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies at the year-end are translated at the year-end exchange rate. Foreign currency gains and losses are credited or charged to the consolidated income statement as they arise.

The income statements of foreign subsidiary undertakings are translated into pounds sterling at average exchange rates and the year-end net assets of these companies are translated at year-end exchange rates.

Exchange differences arising from retranslation of the opening net assets and on foreign currency borrowings (to the extent that they hedge the Group’s investment in such operations) are reported in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income.

Goodwill and fair value adjustments arising on the acquisition of a foreign entity are treated as assets and liabilities of the foreign entity and translated at the closing rate.

Hyperinflation in Argentina

During 2019 and 2018, Argentina was designated as a hyperinflationary economy and the financial statements of the Group’s subsidiaries in Argentina have been adjusted for the effects of inflation in accordance with IAS 29 Financial Reporting in Hyperinflationary Economies.

IAS 29 requires that the income statement is adjusted for inflation in the period and translated at the year-end foreign exchange rate and that non-monetary assets and liabilities on the balance sheet are restated to reflect the change in purchasing power caused by inflation from the date of initial recognition. In 2019, this resulted in an increase in goodwill of £41.0 million (2018: £105.8 million) and an increase in other intangibles of £7.1 million (2018: £19.5 million). The impact on other non-monetary assets and liabilities and the impact on the Group’s income statement in the year were immaterial.

Share-based payments

The Group issues equity-settled share-based payments (including share options) to certain employees and accounts for these awards in accordance with IFRS 2 Share-Based Payment. Equity-settled share-based payments are measured at fair value (excluding the effect of non-market-based vesting conditions) at the date of grant. Details regarding the fair value of equity settled share-based transactions are set out in notes 23 and 28.

The fair value determined at the grant date is recognised in the consolidated income statement as an expense on a straight-line basis over the relevant vesting period, based on the Group’s estimate of the number of shares that will ultimately vest and adjusted for the effect of non-market-based vesting conditions.

Critical judgements and estimation uncertainty in applying accounting policies

Management is required to make key decisions and judgements whilst acknowledging there is estimation uncertainty in the process of applying the Group’s accounting policies. These estimates and judgements are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Where judgement has been applied or estimation uncertainty exists, the key factors taken into consideration are disclosed in the accounting policies and the appropriate note in these financial statements.

The most significant areas of estimation uncertainty include:

• Goodwill: The discounted cash flow methodology employed by the Group when testing for goodwill impairment requires estimates regarding revenue growth, operating margins, discount rates and working capital requirements. Further details of the methodology, discount rates, long-term growth rates and estimates used in relation to the goodwill impairment are set out in note 14.

• Payments due to vendors (earnout agreements) and liabilities in respect of put options: Estimates are required regarding growth rates in deriving future financial performance and discount rates to be applied when measuring the liabilities for earnouts and put options. Further details on growth rates and discount rates and the sensitivity to these estimates are set out in note 27.

• Provision for post-employment benefits: Estimates are required in the accounting for defined benefit pension plans, including establishing discount rates, rates of increase in salaries and pensions in payment, inflation and mortality assumptions. These estimates are made by management based on the advice of qualified advisors. Details of the assumptions used and the sensitivity of the benefit obligation to these assumptions are set out in note 24.

• Deferred consideration on the Kantar disposal: as per the terms of the Kantar disposal, deferred consideration consisted of amounts expected to be received in future periods on satisfaction of certain conditions and the deferral of consideration against services to be provided to Kantar in the future, as detailed in note 12. Estimates are required in determining amounts to be received and the value of services to be provided, taking into account uncertainty in the ultimate timing and resolution of each of these. The sensitivity to these estimates is specific to each individual circumstance and no individual estimate is expected to result in a material change to the amount.

• Taxation: Estimates are required in determining whether a provision is required and, the amount of taxes that will be due, particularly given the many countries in which the Group operates. Where the final tax outcome is different from the amounts recorded then such differences may expose the Group to additional tax liabilities or impact the carrying value of deferred tax assets, which would affect the future tax charge. Further details on the tax charge, corporate income tax payable and deferred tax balances are set out in the income statement, balance sheet and notes 7 and 17.

The most significant areas of judgements include:

• Revenue recognition: Judgement is required regarding the timing of recognition, particularly in relation to media volume income with regards to whether it is required to be passed back to the client and in assessing progress on performance obligations where revenue is recognised over time. Further details are set out in the accounting policy.

• Non-current assets held for sale and discontinued operations: Judgement is required in determining the timing of classification of the Group’s Kantar business as held for sale, particularly with the timing of the held for sale classification. Further details are set out in note 12.

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General information

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

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General information

1. General information

WPP plc is a company incorporated in Jersey. The address of the registered office is Queensway House, Hilgrove Street, St Helier, Jersey, JE1 1ES and the address of the principal executive office is Sea Containers, 18 Upper Ground, London, United Kingdom, SE1 9GL. The nature of the Group’s operations and its principal activities are set out in note 2. These consolidated financial statements are presented in pounds sterling.

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Segment information

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

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Segment information

2. Segment information

The Group is a leading worldwide creative transformation organisation offering national and multinational clients a comprehensive range of communications, experience, commerce and technology services. Substantially all of the Group’s revenue is from contracts with customers.

Recent restructuring actions, including the mergers of VMLY&R and Wunderman Thompson, the One Ogilvy strategy and the reorganisation of our specialist healthcare agencies, mean that certain units have been reclassified between the previously reported sectors. In order to take account of these changes, the internal reporting of the Group used by the Chief Executive Officer (the Chief Operating Decision Maker) to review performance and allocate resources has also changed. The Group has therefore reassessed its segment information under IFRS 8 Operating Segments. In assessing the Group’s reportable segments, the Directors have considered the similar economic characteristics of certain operating segments, their shared client base and the similar nature of their products or services, amongst other factors. As a result, the Group is now organised into three reportable segments – Global Integrated Agencies; Public Relations; and Specialist Agencies. The Data Investment Management segment is now excluded from the segment analysis as it is classified as discontinued operations. Comparatives have been restated.

Reportable segments

Reported contributions were as follows:

Continuing operations – Income statement	Revenue1		Revenue less pass-through costs2		Headline operating profit3		Headline operating profit margin4
	£m		£m		£m
2019
Global Integrated Agencies5		10,205.2		8,108.1		1,219.5		15.0%
Public Relations6		956.5		898.0		140.6		15.7%
Specialist Agencies7		2,072.4		1,840.4		200.5		10.9%
		13,234.1				1,560.6
20188
Global Integrated Agencies5		9,930.7		8,070.8		1,228.2		15.2%
Public Relations6		931.7		879.9		139.2		15.8%
Specialist Agencies7		2,184.3		1,925.0		283.8		14.7%
		13,046.7				1,651.2
20178
Global Integrated Agencies5		10,028.6		8,315.5		1,321.3		15.9%
Public Relations6		915.0		864.3		123.5		14.3%
Specialist Agencies7		2,202.8		1,964.3		348.3		17.7%
		13,146.4				1,793.1

Notes

1  Intersegment sales have not been separately disclosed as they are not material.

2  Revenue less pass-through costs is revenue less media, data collection and other pass-through costs. Pass-through costs comprise fees paid to external suppliers where they are engaged to perform part or all of a specific project and are changed directly to clients, predominantly media and data collection costs. See note 3 to the consolidated financial statements for more details of the pass-through costs.

3  A reconciliation from operating profit to headline operating profit is provided in note 32.

4  Headline operating profit margin is calculated as headline operating profit (defined above) as a percentage of revenue less pass-through costs.

5  Global Integrated Agencies includes all of Grey, GroupM, Hogarth, Ogilvy, VMLY&R and Wunderman Thompson.

6  Public Relations represents the Group’s specialists in this area and remains as previously reported but excludes Ogilvy PR which now sits within Global Integrated Agencies as part of Ogilvy.

7  Specialist Agencies represent the Group’s other agencies that specialise in certain areas, whether by region or range of services.

8  Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies. As a result Data Investment Management is now excluded from the segment analysis.

Continuing operations – Other information	Share-based payments		Capital additions1		Depreciation and amortisation2		Goodwill impairment3		Share of results of associates			Interests in associates and joint ventures
	£m		£m		£m		£m		£m			£m
2019
Global Integrated Agencies		54.3		265.6		392.8		4.8		17.0			164.2
Public Relations		4.6		17.5		31.5		–		(0.3	)		5.5
Specialist Agencies4		7.1		46.7		84.0		42.9		(2.0	)		643.3
		66.0		329.8		508.3		47.7		14.7			813.0
20185
Global Integrated Agencies		59.5		255.6		159.1		142.8		25.4			175.1
Public Relations		7.1		12.5		10.8		–		1.3			6.2
Specialist Agencies4		11.7		45.9		39.4		33.7		3.8			615.5
		78.3		314.0		209.3		176.5		30.5			796.8
20175
Global Integrated Agencies		77.8		214.3		157.1		–		16.2			179.9
Public Relations		7.2		9.5		9.8		7.5		0.9			5.6
Specialist Agencies4		13.3		47.2		42.2		19.6		80.9			879.7
		98.3		271.0		209.1		27.1		98.0			1,065.2

Notes

1  Capital additions include purchases of property, plant and equipment and other intangible assets (including capitalised computer software).

2  Depreciation of property, plant and equipment, depreciation of right-of-use assets and amortisation of other intangible assets.

3  Goodwill impairment figures in 2018 have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

4  Specialist Agencies includes the Kantar associate and amounts previously reported under the Data Investment Management segment.

5  Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies.

 

Contributions by geographical area were as follows:  

Continuing operations	2019 £m		20181 £m		20171 £m
Revenue2
North America3		4,854.7		4,851.7		5,083.5
United Kingdom		1,797.1		1,785.6		1,737.4
Western Continental Europe		2,628.8		2,589.6		2,455.7
Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe		3,953.5		3,819.8		3,869.8
		13,234.1		13,046.7		13,146.4
Revenue less pass-through costs4
North America3		4,034.3		4,059.7		4,335.2
United Kingdom		1,390.1		1,393.8		1,390.0
Western Continental Europe		2,176.4		2,182.9		2,063.7
Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe		3,245.7		3,239.3		3,355.0
Headline operating profit5
North America3		662.0		710.6		816.3
United Kingdom		188.5		179.6		218.1
Western Continental Europe		261.5		289.4		249.8
Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe		448.6		471.6		508.9
		1,560.6		1,651.2		1,793.1
Headline operating profit margin6	Margin		Margin1		Margin1
North America		16.4%		17.5%		18.8%
United Kingdom		13.6%		12.9%		15.7%
Western Continental Europe		12.0%		13.3%		12.1%
Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe		13.8%		14.6%		15.2%

Notes

1  Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies.

2  Intersegment sales have not been separately disclosed as they are not material.

3  North America includes the US with revenue of £4,576.5 million (2018: £4,576.1 million, 2017: £4,782.0 million), revenue less pass-through costs of £3,806.3 million (2018: £3,836.0 million, 2017: £4,089.9 million) and headline operating profit of £620.6 million (2018: £674.4 million, 2017: £773.5 million).

4  Revenue less pass-through costs is revenue less media, data collection and other pass-through costs. Pass-through costs comprise fees paid to external suppliers where they are engaged to perform part or all of a specific project and are changed directly to clients, predominantly media and data collection costs. See note 3 to the consolidated financial statements for more details of the pass-through costs.

5  A reconciliation from operating profit to headline operating profit is provided in note 32.

6  Headline operating profit margin is calculated as headline operating profit (defined above) as a percentage of revenue less pass-through costs.

Continuing operations	2019 £m		2018 £m
Non-current assets1
North America2		6,812.6		7,247.0
United Kingdom		1,743.3		2,067.9
Western Continental Europe		3,417.2		4,371.9
Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe		3,665.7		4,005.9
		15,638.8		17,692.7

Notes

1  Non-current assets excluding financial instruments and deferred tax.

2  North America includes the United States with non-current assets of £6,354.7 million (2018: £6,770.6 million).

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Costs of services and general and administrative costs

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

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Costs of services and general and administrative costs

3. Costs of services and general and administrative costs

Continuing operations	2019 £m			20181 £m			20171 £m
Costs of services		10,825.1			10,559.1			10,481.6
General and administrative costs		1,113.1			1,242.3			1,086.9
		11,938.2			11,801.4			11,568.5
Costs of services and general and administrative costs include:
Continuing operations	2019 £m			20181 £m			20171 £m
Staff costs (note 5)		7,090.6			6,950.6			7,065.1
Establishment costs		672.9			756.6			769.5
Media pass-through costs		1,656.2			1,458.0			1,429.4
Other costs of services and general and administrative costs2		2,518.5			2,636.2			2,304.5
		11,938.2			11,801.4			11,568.5
Other costs of services and general and administrative costs include:
Continuing operations	2019 £m			20181 £m			20171 £m
Goodwill impairment (note 14)3		47.7			176.5			27.1
Investment write-downs		7.5			2.0			91.7
Restructuring and transformation costs		153.5			265.5			56.8
Litigation settlement		(16.8	)		–			–
Gain on sale of freehold property in New York		(7.9	)		–			–
Amortisation and impairment of acquired intangible assets		121.5			201.8			138.0
Amortisation of other intangible assets		21.2			20.7			20.1
Depreciation of property, plant and equipment		185.5			188.6			189.0
Depreciation of right-of-use assets		301.6			–			–
Losses on sale of property, plant and equipment		3.2			0.6			1.2
Gains on disposal of investments and subsidiaries		(40.4	)		(237.9	)		(98.7	)
(Gains)/losses on remeasurement of equity interests arising from a change in scope of ownership		(0.4	)		(2.0	)		0.3
Net foreign exchange losses/(gains)		6.1			(13.0	)		8.0
Short-term lease expense		83.8			–			–
Low-value lease expense		2.9			–			–

Notes

1  Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies.

2  Other costs of services and general and administrative costs include £731.4 million (2018: £713.0 million, 2017: £573.1 million) of other pass-through costs.

3  Figures in 2018 have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

In 2019, operating profit includes credits totalling £26.9 million (2018: £25.6 million, 2017: £40.9 million) relating to the release of excess provisions and other balances established in respect of acquisitions completed prior to 2018. Further details of the Group’s approach to acquisition reserves, as required by IFRS 3 Business Combinations, are given in note 30.

Amortisation and impairment of acquired intangibles in 2019 includes an impairment charge in the year of £26.5 million (2018: £89.1 million, 2017: £6.0 million) in regard to certain brand names that are no longer in use and customer relationships where the underlying clients have been lost.

In 2019, the goodwill impairment charge of £47.7 million (2018: £176.5 million, 2017: £27.1 million) relates to a number of under-performing businesses in the Group. In certain markets, the impact of current, local economic conditions and trading circumstances on these businesses is sufficiently severe to indicate impairment to the carrying value of goodwill. In 2018, the goodwill impairment charge primarily relates to a charge of £142.8 million on VMLY&R.

Investment write-downs of £91.7 million in 2017 include £53.1 million in relation to comScore Inc., which had not released any financial statements in relation to its 2015, 2016 or 2017 results due to an internal investigation by their Audit Committee. In 2017, the market value of comScore Inc. fell below the Group’s carrying value. Other investment write-downs relate to certain non-core minority investments in the United States where forecast financial performance and/or liquidity issues indicate a permanent decline in the recoverability of the Group’s investment.

Gains on disposal of investments and subsidiaries of £40.4 million in 2019 include a gain of £28.6 million on the disposal of the Group’s interest in Chime. Gains on disposal of investments and subsidiaries of £237.9 million in 2018 include a gain of £185.3 million on the disposal of the Group’s interest in Globant S.A. Gains in 2017 of £98.7 million include £92.3 million on the sale of the Group’s interest in Asatsu-DK Inc. following its acquisition by Bain Capital.

In 2019, restructuring and transformation costs of £153.5 million comprise £116.3 million of restructuring costs and £37.2 million transformation costs with respect to strategic initiatives including co-locations in major cities, IT transformation and shared services. Restructuring and transformation costs of £121.1 million are in relation to the continuing restructuring plan, first outlined at the Investor Day in December 2018. As part of that plan, restructuring actions have been taken to right-size under-performing businesses, address high cost severance markets and simplify operational structures. Further restructuring and transformation costs will be incurred in 2020 and 2021. The remaining £32.4 million primarily comprises transformation costs in relation to the continuing global IT transformation programme.

In 2018, restructuring and transformation costs of £265.5 million comprise £179.7 million of restructuring costs and £85.8 million transformation costs with respect to strategic initiatives including co-locations in major cities, IT transformation and shared services. In the fourth quarter of 2018, £212.3 million of restructuring and transformation costs were incurred in relation to the strategic review of the Group’s operations. The remaining £53.2 million primarily relates to restructuring costs recorded in the first half of 2018 and transformation costs in relation to the IT transformation programme.

In 2017, restructuring and transformation costs of £56.8 million predominantly comprise £33.7 million of severance costs arising from a structural assessment of certain of the Group’s operations, primarily in the mature markets; and £12.8 million of costs resulting from the project to transform and rationalise the Group’s IT services and infrastructure including costs relating to the cyber attack in June 2017.

In 2019, the Group received £16.8 million in settlement of a class action lawsuit against Comscore Inc. for providing materially false and misleading information regarding their company and its financial performance.

In March 2019, the Group entered into a sale and leaseback agreement for its office space at 3 Columbus Circle in New York. The Group sold the freehold for proceeds of £159.0 million and simultaneously entered into a 15-year lease. The net gain recognised from the sale and leaseback is £7.9 million.

Auditors’ remuneration:

	2019 £m		2018 £m			2017 £m
Fees payable to the Company’s auditors for the audit of the Company’s annual accounts		1.5		1.4			1.4
The audit of the Company’s subsidiaries pursuant to legislation		28.0		25.2	1		20.7
Other services pursuant to legislation		5.0		4.2			4.0
Fees payable to the auditors pursuant to legislation		34.5		30.8			26.1
Tax advisory services		–		–			0.1
Tax compliance services		–		0.1			0.1
Other services1		8.2		4.7			4.6
Total non-audit fees		8.2		4.8			4.8
Total fees		42.7		35.6			30.9

Note

1  Includes a true-up of £3.5 million.

2  Other services include audits for earnout purposes.

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Share of results of associates

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

Text block [abstract]

Share of results of associates

4. Share of results of associates

Share of results of associates include:

Continuing operations	20191 £m			20182 £m			20172 £m
Share of profit before interest and taxation		99.2			110.8			129.7
Share of exceptional (losses)/gains		(47.8	)		(41.5	)		0.6
Share of interest and non-controlling interests		(19.4	)		(15.1	)		(12.6	)
Share of taxation		(17.3	)		(23.7	)		(19.7	)
		14.7			30.5			98.0

Notes

1  From 5 December 2019 approximately 90% of the Kantar business is treated as a 40% associate following the completion of the transaction outlined in note 12.

2  Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies.

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Our people

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

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Our people

5. Our people

Our staff numbers, including the Kantar disposal group, averaged 132,823 for the year ended 31 December 2019 against 133,903 in 2018 and 134,428 in 2017. Their geographical distribution was as follows:

	2019		2018		2017
North America		25,008		25,990		27,399
United Kingdom		14,192		14,331		14,197
Western Continental Europe		26,973		26,825		25,700
Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe		66,650		66,757		67,132
		132,823		133,903		134,428

Their reportable segment distribution was as follows:

	2019		2018		2017
Global Integrated Agencies		82,295		83,015		81,537
Data Investment Management		26,325		27,813		28,014
Public Relations		6,890		6,891		6,899
Specialist Agencies		17,313		16,184		17,978
		132,823		133,903		134,428

At the end of 2019, staff numbers were 106,786 (2018: 134,281, 2017: 134,413).

Staff costs include:

Continuing operations	2019 £m		20181 £m		20171 £m
Wages and salaries		4,946.2		4,828.0		4,937.5
Cash-based incentive plans		227.6		233.0		196.5
Share-based incentive plans		66.0		78.3		98.3
Social security costs		591.7		579.0		580.8
Pension costs		169.7		160.9		161.3
Severance		42.6		30.0		36.8
Other staff costs2		1,046.8		1,041.4		1,053.9
		7,090.6		6,950.6		7,065.1

Notes

1  Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies.

2  Freelance and temporary staff costs are included in other staff costs.

Included above are charges of £2.0 million, excluding revision to prior year awards, (2018: £2.0 million, 2017: £12.3 million) for share-based incentive plans in respect of key management personnel (who comprise the Directors of the Group). Total compensation received by key management personnel in respect of 2019 was £4.7 million (2018: £6.2 million, 2017: £17.8 million) of which £0.4 million (2018: £0.4 million, 2017: £0.7 million) were pension contributions. The value of the EPSP awards, which vest in the year following the end of the five-year performance period, is included in total compensation in the year the relevant five-year performance period ends.

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Finance and investment income, finance costs and revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

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Finance and investment income, finance costs and revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments

6. Finance and investment income, finance costs and revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments

Finance and investment income includes:

Continuing operations	2019 £m		20181 £m		20171 £m
Income from equity investments		18.3		15.2		16.7
Interest income		80.7		83.7		72.3
		99.0		98.9		89.0

Finance costs include:

Continuing operations	2019 £m		20181 £m		20171 £m
Net interest expense on pension plans		3.5		3.6		5.4
Interest on other long-term employee benefits		3.9		3.5		3.3
Interest expense and similar charges2		252.0		272.0		253.2
Interest expense related to lease liabilities		99.7		–		–
		359.1		279.1		261.9

Revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments include:

Continuing operations	20193 £m			20181,3 £m			20171,3 £m
Movements in fair value of treasury instruments		0.4			(11.0	)		0.4
Premium on the early repayment of bonds		(63.4	)		–			–
Revaluation of investments held at fair value through profit or loss		9.1			67.8			–
Revaluation of put options over non-controlling interests		(24.3)			25.9			39.5
Revaluation of payments due to vendors (earnout agreements)		(3.7)			46.1			156.5
Retranslation of financial instruments		245.7			(205.1	)		194.6
		163.8			(76.3	)		391.0

Notes

1  Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies.

2  Interest expense and similar charges are payable on bank overdrafts, bonds and bank loans held at amortised cost.

3  Figures have been restated to be in accordance with IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, as described in the accounting policies.

The retranslation of financial instruments includes foreign exchange gains/losses on bonds, cross currency swaps, intercompany loans and bank balances that form part of the Group’s central financing structures. Any foreign exchange gains/losses on operations are recognised in general and administrative costs as set out in note 3.

The majority of the Group’s long-term debt is represented by $1,563 million of US dollar bonds at an average interest rate of 4.06%, €3,100 million of Eurobonds at an average interest rate of 1.82% and £400 million of Sterling bonds at an average interest rate of 2.88%.

Average borrowings under the US Dollar Revolving Credit Facilities (note 10) amounted to the equivalent of $72 million at an average interest rate of 1.11% (2018: $125 million at an average interest rate of 0.96%).

Average borrowings under the Australian Dollar Revolving Credit Facilities, amounted to A$310 million at an average rate of 2.95% (2018: A$439 million at an average rate of 3.27%).

Average borrowings under the US Commercial Paper Programme for 2019 amounted to $41 million at an average interest rate of 2.46% inclusive of margin (2018: $540 million at an average interest rate of 2.28% inclusive of margin).

Average borrowings under the Euro Commercial Paper Programme for 2019 amounted to £255 million at an average interest rate of 1.16% inclusive of currency swaps (2018: £nil).

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Taxation

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

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Taxation

7. Taxation

In 2019, the effective tax rate on profit before taxation was 22.6% (2018: 25.1%, 2017: 4.4%).

The tax charge comprises:

Continuing operations	2019 £m			20181 £m			20171 £m
Corporation tax
Current year		423.0			404.2			383.0
Prior years		(63.4	)		(108.1	)		(97.2	)
		359.6			296.1			285.8
Deferred tax
Current year		(78.3	)		(41.5	)		(207.4	)
Prior years		(6.3	)		1.4			4.6
		(84.6	)		(40.1	)		(202.8	)
Tax charge		275.0			256.0			83.0

The corporation tax credit for prior years in 2019, 2018 and 2017, mainly comprises the release of a number of provisions following the resolution of tax matters in various countries.

The tax charge for the year can be reconciled to profit before taxation in the consolidated income statement as follows:

Continuing operations	20192 £m			20181,2 £m			20171,2 £m
Profit before taxation		1,214.3			1,019.3			1,894.0
Tax at the corporation tax rate of 19.0%3		230.7			193.7			364.6
Tax effect of share of results of associates		(2.7	)		(5.8	)		(18.8	)
Irrecoverable withholding taxes		44.7			48.9			31.6
Items that are not deductible/(taxable) in determining taxable profit		51.9			67.2			(39.0	)
Effect of different tax rates in subsidiaries operating in other jurisdictions		77.1			71.2			95.2
US Transition Tax related to unremitted foreign earnings		–			(4.6	)		20.1
Effect of change in US tax rate on deferred tax balances		–			–			(211.6	)
Origination and reversal on unrecognised temporary differences		(3.4	)		5.1			(18.9	)
Tax losses not recognised or utilised in the year		13.2			19.9			32.5
Utilisation of tax losses not previously recognised		(42.7	)		(25.5	)		(10.4	)
Recognition of temporary differences not previously recognised		(24.1	)		(7.4	)		(69.7	)
Release of prior year provisions in relation to acquired businesses		(19.9	)		(20.4	)		(15.0	)
Other prior year adjustments		(49.8	)		(86.3	)		(77.6	)
Tax charge		275.0			256.0			83.0
Effective tax rate on profit before tax		22.6%			25.1%			4.4%

Notes

1  Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-Current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies.

2  Profit before taxation has been restated to be in accordance with IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, as described in the accounting policies.

3  As the Group is subject to the tax rates of more than one country, it has chosen to present its reconciliation of the tax charge using the UK corporation tax rate of 19.0% (2018: 19.0%, 2017: 19.25%).

Factors affecting the tax charge in future years

Given the Group’s geographic mix of profits and the changing international tax environment, the tax rate is expected to increase slightly over the next few years.

The tax charge may also be affected by the impact of acquisitions, disposals and other corporate restructurings, the resolution of open tax issues, and the ability to use brought forward tax losses. Changes in local or international tax rules, for example, as a consequence of the financial support programmes being implemented by governments during the Covid-19 crisis, changes arising from the application of existing rules, or challenges by tax or competition authorities, for example, the European Commission’s State Aid decision into the Group Financing Exemption in the UK CFC rules, may expose us to significant additional tax liabilities or impact the carrying value of our deferred tax assets, which would affect the future tax charge.

The Group does not currently expect any material additional charges, or credits, to arise in respect of these matters, beyond the amounts already provided. Liabilities relating to these open and judgemental matters are based upon estimates of whether additional taxes will be due after taking into account external advice where appropriate. Where the final tax outcome of these matters is different from the amounts which were initially recorded then such differences will impact the current and deferred income tax assets and liabilities in the period in which such determination is made.

Tax risk management

We maintain constructive engagement with the tax authorities and relevant government representatives, as well as active engagement with a wide range of international companies and business organisations with similar issues. We engage advisors and legal counsel to obtain opinions on tax legislation and principles. We have a Tax Risk Management Strategy in place which sets out the controls established and our assessment procedures for decision-making and how we monitor tax risk. We monitor proposed changes in taxation legislation and ensure these are taken into account when we consider our future business plans. Our directors are informed by management of any tax law changes, the nature and status of any significant ongoing tax audits, and other developments that could materially affect the Group’s tax position.

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Ordinary dividends

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

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Ordinary dividends

8. Ordinary dividends

Amounts recognised as distributions to equity holders in the year:

	2019		2018		2017		2019		2018		2017
Per share	Pence per share						£m		£m		£m
2018 Final dividend		37.30p		37.30p		37.05p		466.4		464.6		467.2
2019 Interim dividend		22.70p		22.70p		22.70p		284.1		282.8		284.3
		60.00p		60.00p		59.75p		750.5		747.4		751.5

Given the significant uncertainty over the coming months, we are taking prudent action now to maintain our liquidity and ensure that we emerge from this global crisis strong, secure, and ready to meet the continuing needs of our clients, shareholders and other stakeholders. Therefore, the Board is suspending the 2019 final dividend of 37.3 pence per share, which was due to be proposed at the 2020 AGM.

The payment of dividends will not have any tax consequences for the Group.

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Earnings per share

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

Text block [abstract]

Earnings per share

9. Earnings per share

Basic EPS

The calculation of basic EPS is as follows:

Continuing operations	20191			20181		20171
Earnings2 (£ million)		860.1			698.2		1,726.6
Weighted average shares used in basic EPS calculation (million)		1,250.0			1,247.8		1,261.1
EPS		68.8p			56.0p		136.9p
Discontinued operations	2019			2018		2017
Earnings2 (£ million)		(3.8	)		126.4		237.1
Weighted average shares used in basic EPS calculation (million)		1,250.0			1,247.8		1,261.1
EPS		(0.3p	)		10.1p		18.8p
Continued and discontinued operations	20191			20181		20171
Earnings2 (£ million)		856.3			824.6		1,963.7
Weighted average shares used in basic EPS calculation (million)		1,250.0			1,247.8		1,261.1
EPS		68.5p			66.1p		155.7p

Notes

1  Earnings figures have been restated as described in the accounting policies.

2  Earnings is equivalent to profit for the year attributable to equity holders of the parent.

Diluted EPS

The calculation of diluted reported and diluted EPS is as follows:

Continuing operations	20191			20181		20171
Diluted earnings (£ million)		860.1			698.2		1,726.6
Weighted average shares used in diluted EPS calculation (million)		1,260.6			1,261.2		1,275.8
Diluted EPS		68.2p			55.4p		135.3p
Discontinued operations	2019			2018		2017
Diluted earnings (£ million)		(3.8	)		126.4		237.1
Weighted average shares used in diluted EPS calculation (million)		1,260.6			1,261.2		1,275.8
Diluted EPS		(0.3p	)		10.0p		18.6p
Continued and discontinued operations	20191			20181		20171
Diluted earnings (£ million)		856.3			824.6		1,963.7
Weighted average shares used in diluted EPS calculation (million)		1,260.6			1,261.2		1,275.8
Diluted EPS		67.9p			65.4p		153.9p

Note

1  Earnings figures have been restated as described in the accounting policies.

Diluted EPS has been calculated based on the diluted earnings amounts above. At 31 December 2019, options to purchase 19.3 million ordinary shares (2018: 16.9 million, 2017: 8.2 million) were outstanding, but were excluded from the computation of diluted earnings per share because the exercise prices of these options were greater than the average market price of the Group’s shares and, therefore, their inclusion would have been accretive.

A reconciliation between the shares used in calculating basic and diluted EPS is as follows:

	2019 m		2018 m		2017 m
Average shares used in basic EPS calculation		1,250.0		1,247.8		1,261.1
Dilutive share options outstanding		0.3		1.6		1.8
Other potentially issuable shares		10.3		11.8		12.9
Shares used in diluted EPS calculation		1,260.6		1,261.2		1,275.8

At 31 December 2019 there were 1,328,167,813 (2018: 1,332,678,227, 2017: 1,332,511,552) ordinary shares in issue, including treasury shares of 70,787,730 (2018: 70,854,553, 2017: 62,578,938).

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Sources of finance

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

Text block [abstract]

Sources of finance

10. Sources of finance

The following table summarises the equity and debt financing of the Group, and changes during the year:

	Shares					Debt
Analysis of changes in financing	2019 £m			2018 £m		2019 £m			2018 £m
Beginning of year		703.0			701.8		6,217.9			6,481.3
Ordinary shares issued		0.6			1.2		–			–
Share cancellations		(0.5	)		–		–			–
Net decrease in drawings on bank loans and corporate bonds		–			–		(1,713.2	)		(440.6	)
Amortisation of financing costs included in debt		–			–		10.3			7.7
Changes in fair value due to hedging arrangements		–			–		14.3			(9.9	)
Other movements		–			–		1.5			(0.2	)
Exchange adjustments		–			–		(257.9	)		179.6
End of year		703.1			703.0		4,272.9			6,217.9

Note

The table above excludes bank overdrafts which fall within cash and cash equivalents for the purposes of the consolidated cash flow statement.

Shares

At 31 December 2019, the Company’s share base was entirely composed of ordinary equity share capital and share premium of £703.1 million (2018: £703.0 million), further details of which are disclosed in note 28.

Debt

US$ bonds The Group has in issue $500 million of 3.625% bonds due September 2022, $750 million of 3.75% bonds due September 2024, $93 million of 5.125% bonds due September 2042 and $220 million of 5.625% bonds due November 2043.

Eurobonds The Group has in issue €750 million of 3.00% bonds due November 2023, €500 million of 1.375% bonds due March 2025, €750 million of 2.25% bonds due September 2026, €600 million of 1.625% bonds due March 2030, €250 million of Floating Rate Notes carrying a coupon of 3m EURIBOR + 0.32% due May 2020 and €250 million of Floating Rate Notes carrying a coupon of 3m EURIBOR +0.45% due March 2022.

Sterling bonds The Group has in issue £400 million of 2.875% bonds due September 2046.

Revolving Credit Facility The Group has a five-year Revolving Credit Facility of $2.5 billion due March 2024, signed in March 2019. The Group’s borrowing under these facilities, which are drawn down predominantly in pounds sterling, averaged the equivalent of $72 million in 2019. In June 2018, the Group’s subsidiary, WPP AUNZ entered into a A$150 million Revolving Credit Facility due June 2019 and a A$370 million Revolving Credit Facility due June 2021. In May 2019, the A$150 million Revolving Credit Facility was extended to June 2020. In December 2019, the A$370 million Revolving Credit Facility was reduced to A$270 million due June 2021. The Group’s borrowings under the Australian dollar facilities which were drawn down in Australian dollars and New Zealand dollars, averaged the equivalent of A$310 million in 2019. The Group had available undrawn committed credit facilities of £2,005.6 million at 31 December 2019 (2018: £2,074.7 million).

Borrowings under the $2.5 billion Revolving Credit Facility are governed by certain financial covenants based on the results and financial position of the Group. Borrowings under the A$150 million Revolving Credit Facility and the A$270 million Revolving Credit Facility are governed by certain financial covenants based on the results and financial position of WPP AUNZ.

The $2.5 billion Revolving Credit Facility, due March 2024, includes terms which require the consent of the majority of the lenders if a proposed merger or consolidation of the Company would alter its legal personality or identity. On 14 February 2020, the lending banks approved an extension of the term of the Revolving Credit Facility to March 2025.

US Commercial Paper Programmes

The Group operates a commercial paper programmes using its Revolving Credit Facility as a backstop. The average US commercial paper outstanding in 2019 was $41 million (2018: $540 million). The average Euro commercial paper outstanding in 2019 was £255 million (2018: £nil) inclusive of the effect of currency swaps. There was no US or Euro Commercial Paper outstanding at 31 December 2019.

The following table is an analysis of future anticipated cash flows in relation to the Group’s debt, on an undiscounted basis which, therefore, differs from the fair value and carrying value:

	2019 £m			2018 £m
Within one year		(324.8	)		(748.4	)
Between one and two years		(204.0	)		(596.8	)
Between two and three years		(692.1	)		(937.1	)
Between three and four years		(726.3	)		(742.5	)
Between four and five years		(634.2	)		(786.8	)
Over five years		(2,761.9	)		(4,199.7	)
Debt financing (including interest) under the Revolving Credit Facility and in relation to unsecured loan notes		(5,343.3	)		(8,011.3	)
Short-term overdrafts – within one year1		(8,572.4	)		(8,864.6	)
Future anticipated cash flows		(13,915.7	)		(16,875.9	)
Effect of discounting/financing rates		1,070.4			1,793.4
Debt financing		(12,845.3	)		(15,082.5	)

Note

1  Figures have been restated to be in accordance with IAS 32 Financial Instruments: Presentation, as described in the accounting policies.

Analysis of fixed and floating rate debt by currency including the effect of interest rate and cross-currency swaps:

2019 Currency		£m		Fixed rate1		Floating basis		Period (months)1
$	– fixed		1,178.2		4.06		n/a		95
£	– fixed		844.1		2.73		n/a		188
€	– fixed		1,777.7		2.34		n/a		82
	– floating		423.3		n/a		EURIBOR		16
Other			49.6		n/a		n/a		n/a
			4,272.9

2018 Currency		£m		Fixed rate1		Floating basis		Period (months)1
$	– fixed		1,154.8		4.58		n/a		181
	– floating		1,029.6		n/a		LIBOR		n/a
£	– fixed		1,044.1		3.43		n/a		232
€	– fixed		2,425.9		1.99		n/a		75
	– floating		449.2		n/a		EURIBOR		n/a
Other			114.3		n/a		n/a		n/a
			6,217.9

Note

1  Weighted average. These rates do not include the effect of gains on interest rate swap terminations that are written to income over the life of the original instrument.

The following table is an analysis of future undiscounted anticipated cash flows in relation to the Group’s financial derivatives, which include interest rate swaps, forward contracts and other foreign exchange swaps assuming interest rates and foreign exchange rates as at 31 December:

	Financial liabilities				Financial assets
2019	Payable £m		Receivable £m		Payable £m		Receivable £m
Within one year		113.6		107.8		44.0		45.0
Between one and two years		17.5		10.9		–		–
Between two and three years		11.8		6.2		–		–
Between three and four years		11.6		6.1		–		–
Between four and five years		11.6		6.1		–		–
Over five years		449.8		456.3		–		–
		615.9		593.4		44.0		45.0

	Financial liabilities				Financial assets
2018	Payable £m		Receivable £m		Payable £m		Receivable £m
Within one year		229.3		221.9		124.6		120.6
Between one and two years		50.0		45.3		11.8		6.5
Between two and three years		688.4		685.3		11.5		6.4
Between three and four years		408.5		406.6		11.6		6.5
Between four and five years		–		–		11.6		6.6
Over five years		–		–		461.4		498.2
		1,376.2		1,359.1		632.5		644.8

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Analysis of cash flows

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

Text block [abstract]

Analysis of cash flows

11. Analysis of cash flows

The following tables analyse the items included within the main cash flow headings on page F-17.

Net cash from operating activities:

	20191 £m			20181 £m			20171 £m
Profit for the year		950.1			901.1			2,059.4
Taxation		353.8			323.9			197.0
Revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments		(154.4	)		72.8			(409.3	)
Finance costs		376.4			289.3			269.8
Finance and investment income		(102.6	)		(104.8	)		(95.2	)
Share of results of associates		(21.2	)		(43.5	)		(113.5	)
Goodwill impairment on classification as held for sale		94.5			–			–
Gain on sale of discontinued operations		(73.8	)		–			–
Attributable tax expense on sale of discontinued operations		157.4			–			–
Adjustments for:
Non-cash share-based incentive plans (including share options)		71.4			84.8			105.0
Depreciation of property, plant and equipment		203.2			225.1			230.7
Depreciation of right-of-use assets		317.9			–			–
Impairment of goodwill		47.7			176.5			27.1
Amortisation and impairment of acquired intangible assets		135.6			280.0			195.1
Amortisation of other intangible assets		29.6			38.7			36.3
Investment write-downs		7.5			2.0			95.9
Gains on disposal of investments and subsidiaries		(45.1	)		(235.5	)		(129.0	)
(Gains)/losses on remeasurement of equity interests arising from a change in scope of ownership		(0.4	)		(2.0	)		0.3
Gain on sale of freehold property in New York		(7.9	)		–			–
Losses on sale of property, plant and equipment		3.2			0.6			1.1
Decrease/(increase) in trade receivables and accrued income		159.0			(298.9	)		(90.4	)
Increase/(decrease) in trade payables and deferred income		394.7			500.9			(170.8	)
Increase in other receivables		(263.8	)		(52.9	)		(110.6	)
Decrease in other payables – short-term		(16.4	)		(31.8	)		(122.8	)
Increase in other payables – long-term		53.7			0.4			20.1
Increase/(decrease) in provisions		23.1			48.0			(57.3	)
Corporation and overseas tax paid		(536.0	)		(383.6	)		(424.7	)
Payment on early settlement of bonds		(63.4	)		–			–
Interest and similar charges paid		(270.6	)		(252.8	)		(246.6	)
Interest paid on lease liabilities		(105.1	)		–			–
Interest received		80.8			90.4			76.9
Investment income		18.3			15.4			16.8
Dividends from associates		33.3			49.7			46.8
Net cash inflow from operating activities		1,850.5			1,693.8			1,408.1

Note

1  Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

Acquisitions and disposals:
	2019 £m			2018 £m			2017 £m
Initial cash consideration		(3.9	)		(126.7	)		(214.8	)
Cash and cash equivalents acquired		–			11.3			28.9
Earnout payments		(130.2	)		(120.2	)		(199.1	)
Purchase of other investments (including associates)		(27.2	)		(48.1	)		(92.5	)
Acquisitions		(161.3	)		(283.7	)		(477.5	)
Proceeds on disposal of investments and subsidiaries1		2,468.5			849.0			296.0
Cash and cash equivalents disposed		(327.5	)		(15.1	)		–
Disposals of investments and subsidiaries		2,141.0			833.9			296.0
Cash consideration for non-controlling interests		(62.7	)		(109.9	)		(47.3	)
Net acquisition payments and disposal proceeds		1,917.0			440.3			(228.8	)

Note

1  Proceeds on disposal of investments and subsidiaries includes return of capital from investments in associates.

Share repurchases and buybacks:
	2019 £m			2018 £m			2017 £m
Purchase of own shares by ESOP Trusts		–			(102.8	)		(214.6	)
Shares purchased into treasury		(43.8	)		(104.3	)		(289.6	)
Net cash outflow		(43.8	)		(207.1	)		(504.2	)
Net (decrease)/increase in borrowings:
	2019 £m			2018 £m			2017 £m
(Decrease)/increase in drawings on bank loans	(70.6)			(819.3)			785.6
Repayment of €600 million bonds	(512.7)			–			–
Repayment of $812 million bonds	(618.8)			–			–
Partial repayment of $272 million bonds	(135.4)			(20.8)			–
Partial repayment of $450 million bonds	(176.2)			(37.3)			–
Repayment of £200 million bonds	(199.5)			–			–
Proceeds from issue of €250 million bonds		–			218.8			214.0
Proceeds from issue of €500 million bonds		–			438.0			–
Repayment of €252 million bonds		–			(220.0	)		–
Repayment of £400 million bonds		–			–			(400.0	)
Net cash (outflow)/inflow		(1,713.2	)		(440.6	)		599.6
Cash and cash equivalents:
	20191 £m			20181 £m			20171 £m
Cash at bank and in hand	10,442.1			10,433.4			11,509.2
Short-term bank deposits		863.6			632.4			341.8
Overdrafts2		(8,572.4	)		(8,864.6	)		(9,852.8	)
		2,733.3			2,201.2			1,998.2

Notes

1  Figures have been restated to be in accordance with IAS 32 Financial Instruments: Presentation, as described in the accounting policies.

2  Bank overdrafts are included in cash and cash equivalents because they form an integral part of the Group’s cash management.

The Group considers that the carrying amount of cash and cash equivalents approximates their fair value.

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Assets held for sale and discontinued operations

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

Text block [abstract]

Assets held for sale and discontinued operations

12. Assets held for sale and discontinued operations

In July 2019, the Group announced the proposed sale of its Kantar business to Bain Capital. On 5 December 2019 the first stage of the transaction completed, consisting of approximately 90% of the Kantar group, with consideration of £2,140.2 million after tax and disposal costs. The sale involved the Group disposing of the Kantar business and holding a 40% equity stakes post-transaction which are treated as an associate. This generated a pre-tax gain of £73.8 million, tax charge of £157.4 million and goodwill impairment of £94.5 million for the Group. The remaining stages of the transaction are expected to complete in 2020 with further consideration expected to be approximately £200 million after tax and disposal costs.

As outlined in the accounting policies, the criterion of a highly probable sale was met on 9 July 2019, following Board approval of the disposal of Kantar to Bain Capital, representing the date at which the appropriate level of management was committed to a plan to sell the disposal group. The Kantar disposal group therefore became held for sale on this date.

The Kantar group (both the portion that has been disposed of by year end and the portion that is expected to be disposed of in 2020) is classified as a discontinued operation in 2019 under IFRS 5 as it forms a separate major line of business and there was a single co-ordinated plan to dispose of it. Kantar represents materially all of the Data Investment Management segment of the Group.

As at 31 December 2019 the remaining portion of the company not yet sold is disclosed as held for sale.

Results of the discontinued operations, which have been included in profit for the year, were as follows:

	2019 £m			2018 £m			2017 £m
Revenue		2,387.5			2,555.7			2,657.8
Costs of services		(1,951.5	)		(2,104.4	)		(2,147.4	)
Gross profit		436.0			451.3			510.4
General and administrative costs		(151.7	)		(257.8	)		(180.1	)
Operating profit		284.3			193.5			330.3
Share of results of associates		6.5			13.0			15.5
Profit before interest and taxation		290.8			206.5			345.8
Finance income		3.6			5.4			6.2
Finance costs		(17.3	)		(9.7	)		(7.9	)
Revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments		(9.4	)		3.5			18.3
Profit before taxation		267.7			205.7			362.4
Attributable tax expense		(78.8	)		(67.9	)		(114.0	)
Profit after taxation		188.9			137.8			248.4
Goodwill impairment on classification as held for sale1		(94.5	)		–			–
Gain on sale of discontinued operations		73.8			–			–
Attributable tax expense on sale of discontinued operations		(157.4	)		–			–
Net gain attributable to discontinued operations		10.8			137.8			248.4
Attributable to
Equity holders of the parent		(3.8	)		126.4			237.1
Non-controlling interests		14.6			11.4			11.3
		10.8			137.8			248.4

Note

1  Goodwill impairment of £94.5 million arose from the assessment of fair value less costs to sell under IFRS 5.

For the year ended 31 December 2019, the Kantar group contributed £322.9 million (2018: £292.5 million, 2017: £378.4 million) to the Group’s net operating cash flows, paid £53.2 million (2018: £59.5 million, 2017: £67.8 million) in respect of investing activities and paid £27.2 million (2018: £7.9 million, 2017: £9.1 million) in respect of financing activities.

The gain on sale of discontinued operations disposed by 31 December 2019 is calculated as follows:

	2019 £m
Intangible assets (including goodwill)		2,410.0
Property, plant and equipment		115.7
Right-of-use assets		103.5
Interests in associates and joint ventures		92.3
Other investments		11.5
Deferred tax assets		44.1
Corporate income tax recoverable		49.8
Trade and other receivables		748.8
Cash and cash equivalents		324.9
Trade and other payables		(839.8	)
Corporate income tax payable		(48.2	)
Lease liabilities		(106.3	)
Deferred tax liabilities		(98.6	)
Provisions for post-employment benefits		(26.7	)
Provisions for liabilities and charges		(22.4	)
Net assets		2,758.6
Non-controlling interests		(19.1	)
Net assets excluding non-controlling interests		2,739.5
Consideration received in cash and cash equivalents		2,352.1
Re-investment in equity stake1		231.7
Transaction costs		(56.1	)
Deferred consideration2		1.6
Total consideration received		2,529.3
Loss on sale before exchange adjustments		(210.2	)
Exchange adjustments recycled to the income statement		284.0
Gain on sale of discontinued operation		73.8

Notes

1  Re-investment in equity stake represents the value of the Group’s 40% stake in the new Kantar group as part of the disposal.

2  Deferred consideration is made up of £79.6 million expected to be received in future periods on the satisfaction of certain conditions and the deferral of £78.0 million consideration against services the Group will supply to Kantar on favourable terms in the future. The conditions expected to be met in the future include the settlement of ongoing legal cases, realisation of the value of certain investments and the utilisation of certain tax losses and allowances. There was uncertainty at the date of disposal in regard to the ultimate resolution of these items and estimates of amounts due to be received were required to be made; there were no individually material estimates. Future services provided by the Group to Kantar arose through the negotiation of Transition Service Arrangements, as is customary for a disposal of this magnitude. The Group will support Kantar for a period of up to 4 years, primarily in the area of IT, on terms which are favourable to the disposal group. As such, an element of consideration has been deferred and will be recognised as the services are provided.

The major classes of assets and liabilities comprising the operations classified as held for sale at 31 December 2019 are as follows:

	2019 £m
Non-current assets
Intangible assets:
Goodwill		155.4
Other		5.9
Property, plant and equipment		12.8
Right-of-use assets		25.7
Interests in associates and joint ventures		4.6
Other investments		0.6
Deferred tax assets		5.9
Trade and other receivables		2.6
		213.5
Current assets
Corporate income tax recoverable		15.9
Trade and other receivables		189.4
Cash and short-term deposits		66.5
		271.8
Total assets classified as held for sale		485.3
Current liabilities
Trade and other payables		(130.4	)
Corporate income tax payable		(3.8	)
Bank overdrafts		(0.2	)
Short-term lease liabilities		(3.9	)
		(138.3	)
Non-current liabilities
Trade and other payables		(1.3	)
Deferred tax liabilities		(1.2	)
Provisions for post-employment benefits		(8.5	)
Provisions for liabilities and charges		(0.6	)
Long-term lease liabilities		(20.5	)
		(32.1	)
Total liabilities associated with assets classified as held for sale		(170.4	)
Net assets of disposal group		314.9

On 27 February 2020, the second stage of the Kantar transaction completed, consisting of approximately 4% of the Kantar group, with cash consideration received of £136.7 million. The remaining stages of the transaction are expected to complete in 2020.

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Leases

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

Text block [abstract]

Leases

13. Leases

The movements in the year ended 31 December 2019 were as follows:

Right-of-use assets	Land and buildings £m			Plant and machinery £m			Total £m
1 January 2019		1,862.5			32.6			1,895.1
Additions		348.1			16.5			364.6
Transfers to net investment in subleases1		(37.6	)		–			(37.6	)
Disposals		(31.0	)		(0.6	)		(31.6	)
Depreciation of right-of-use assets		(301.5	)		(16.4	)		(317.9	)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(134.4	)		(3.7	)		(138.1	)
31 December 2019		1,706.1			28.4			1,734.5

Note

1  The sublease of certain office space is classified as a finance lease and relates primarily to Kantar business units that were sold. The Company de-recognised the right-of-use asset (to the extent that it is subject to the sublease) and recognised the net investment in subleases, which is included within trade and other receivables. No other disclosures are deemed necessary as it is not material.

Lease liabilities	Land and buildings £m		Plant and machinery £m		Total £m
1 January 2019	2,294.4		31.8		2,326.2
Additions	325.9		12.3		338.2
Interest expense related to lease liabilities	101.5		1.2		102.7
Disposals	(27.5	)	(0.2	)	(27.7	)
Repayment of lease liabilities (including interest)	(326.2	)	(14.9	)	(341.1	)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale	(144.7	)	(3.9	)	(148.6	)
31 December 2019	2,223.4		26.3		2,249.7

The following table shows the breakdown of the lease expense between amounts charged to operating profit and amounts charged to finance costs:  

Continuing operations	2019 £m
Depreciation of right-of-use assets:
Land and buildings		(286.5	)
Plant and machinery		(15.1	)
Short-term lease expense		(83.8	)
Low-value lease expense		(2.9	)
Variable lease expense		(74.2	)
Sublease income		17.5
Charge to operating profit		(445.0	)
Interest expense related to lease liabilities		(99.7	)
Charge to profit before taxation for leases		(544.7	)

Variable lease payments primarily include real estate taxes and insurance costs.

The maturity of lease liabilities at 31 December 2019 were as follows:

	2019 £m
Period ending 31 December
2020		385.9
2021		384.0
2022		335.4
2023		283.0
2024		220.5
Later years		1,393.7
		3,002.5
Effect of discounting		(752.8	)
Lease liability at 31 December 2019		2,249.7
Short-term lease liability		302.2
Long-term lease liability		1,947.5

The total committed future cash flows for leases not yet commenced at 31 December 2019 is £558.0 million.

The Group does not face a significant liquidity risk with regard to its lease liabilities. Refer to note 26 for management of liquidity risk.

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Intangible assets

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

Text block [abstract]

Intangible assets

14. Intangible assets

Goodwill

The movements in 2019 and 2018 were as follows:

	£m1
Cost
1 January 2018		13,597.0
Additions2		154.4
Revision of earnout estimates		(67.6	)
Exchange adjustments		368.1
31 December 2018		14,051.9
Additions2		8.5
Revision of earnout estimates		(14.1	)
Disposals		(18.6	)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(2,729.1	)
Exchange adjustments		(410.0	)
31 December 2019		10,888.6
Accumulated impairment losses and write-downs
1 January 2018		722.4
Impairment losses for the year		176.5
Exchange adjustments		20.4
31 December 2018		919.3
Impairment on classification as held for sale3		70.9
Impairment losses for the year		47.7
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(230.6	)
Exchange adjustments		(29.3	)
31 December 2019		778.0
Net book value
31 December 2019		10,110.6
31 December 2018		13,132.6
1 January 2018		12,874.6

Notes

1  Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

2  Additions represent goodwill arising on the acquisition of subsidiary undertakings including the effect of any revisions to fair value adjustments that had been determined provisionally at the immediately preceding balance sheet date, as permitted by IFRS 3 Business Combinations. The effect of such revisions was not material in either year presented.

3 Goodwill impairment of £70.9 million arose from the assessment of fair value less costs to sell of the Kantar group on classification as held for sale under IFRS 5.

Other intangible assets

The movements in 2019 and 2018 were as follows:

	Brands with an indefinite useful life £m		Acquired intangibles £m		Other £m		Total £m
Cost
1 January 2018	1,081.3		2,547.8		411.5		4,040.6
Additions	–		–		60.4		60.4
Disposals	–		(0.9	)	(37.3	)	(38.2	)
New acquisitions	–		40.3		–		40.3
Other movements1	–		2.9		(7.4	)	(4.5	)
Exchange adjustments	51.5		19.9		10.1		81.5
31 December 2018	1,132.8		2,610.0		437.3		4,180.1
Additions	–		–		43.2		43.2
Disposals	–		(3.4	)	(41.0	)	(44.4	)
New acquisitions	–		3.5		–		3.5
Other movements			–		(1.4	)	(1.4	)
Exchange adjustments	(41.4	)	(28.2	)	(9.9	)	(79.5	)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale	–		(979.0	)	(115.9	)	(1,094.9	)
31 December 2019	1,091.4		1,602.9		312.3		3,006.6
Amortisation and impairment
1 January 2018	–		1,718.7		303.5		2,022.2
Charge for the year	–		275.8		38.7		314.5
Disposals	–		(0.7	)	(27.3	)	(28.0	)
Other movements	–		–		(1.9	)	(1.9	)
Exchange adjustments	–		21.4		9.9		31.3
31 December 2018	–		2,015.2		322.9		2,338.1
Charge for the year	13.2		116.8		29.6		159.6
Disposals	–		(1.6	)	(37.7	)	(39.3	)
Other movements	–		–		2.6		2.6
Exchange adjustments	–		(15.2	)	(9.1	)	(24.3	)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale	–		(835.9	)	(63.0	)	(898.9	)
31 December 2019	13.2		1,279.3		245.3		1,537.8
Net book value
31 December 2019	1,078.2		323.6		67.0		1,468.8
31 December 2018	1,132.8		594.8		114.4		1,842.0
1 January 2018	1,081.3		829.1		108.0		2,018.4

Note

1  Other movements in acquired intangibles include revisions to fair value adjustments arising on the acquisition of subsidiary undertakings that had been determined provisionally at the immediately preceding balance sheet date, as permitted by IFRS 3 Business Combinations.

Cash-generating units with significant goodwill and brands with an indefinite useful life as at 31 December are:

	Goodwill				Brands with an indefinite useful life
	2019 £m1		2018 £m1		2019 £m		2018 £m
GroupM		2,921.7		2,928.6		–		–
Kantar		–		2,513.0		–		–
Wunderman Thompson		2,121.9		2,101.8		409.7		424.8
VMLY&R		901.0		930.4		199.1		206.6
Ogilvy		758.6		614.4		211.1		219.1
Burson Cohn & Wolfe		739.3		711.9		130.2		135.4
Other		2,668.1		3,332.5		128.1		146.9
Total goodwill		10,110.6		13,132.6		1,078.2		1,132.8

Note

1 Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

Other goodwill represents goodwill on a large number of cash-generating units, none of which is individually significant in comparison to the total carrying value of goodwill.

Separately identifiable brands with an indefinite life are carried at historical cost in accordance with the Group’s accounting policy for intangible assets. The carrying values of the other brands with an indefinite useful life are not individually significant in comparison with the total carrying value of brands with an indefinite useful life.

Acquired intangible assets at net book value at 31 December 2019 include brand names of £218.6 million (2018: £361.2 million), customer-related intangibles of £100.6 million (2018: £220.6 million), and other assets (including proprietary tools) of £4.4 million (2018: £13.0 million).

The total amortisation and impairment of acquired intangible assets of £121.5 million (2018: £201.8 million) includes an impairment charge of £26.5 million (2018: £89.1 million) comprising £21.4 million in regard to certain brand names that are no longer in use, including £13.2 million for brands with an indefinite life and £5.1 million in regard to customer relationships where the underlying clients have been lost. £13.2 million of the impairment charge relates to the Public Relations segment, £13.0 million of the impairment charge relates to the Global Integrated Agencies segment, and £0.3 million relates to the Specialist Agencies segment. In addition, the total amortisation and impairment of acquired intangible assets includes £5.6 million (2018: £3.7 million) in relation to associates.

In accordance with the Group’s accounting policy, the carrying values of goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite useful lives are reviewed for impairment annually or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the asset might be impaired.

The impairment review is undertaken annually on 30 September. The goodwill impairment charge of £47.7 million (2018: £176.5 million) relates to a number of under-performing businesses in the Group. In certain markets, the impact of local economic conditions and trading circumstances on these businesses was sufficiently severe to indicate impairment to the carrying value of goodwill. In 2018, the goodwill impairment charge primarily relates to a charge of £142.8 million on VMLY&R with the remaining £33.7 million relating to a number of under-performing businesses in the Group. 

Under IFRS, an impairment charge is required for both goodwill and other indefinite-lived assets when the carrying amount exceeds the ‘recoverable amount’, defined as the higher of fair value less costs to sell and value in use. The review assessed whether the carrying value of goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite useful lives was supported by the value in use determined as the net present value of future cash flows.

Due to a significant number of cash-generating units, the impairment test was performed in two steps. In the first step, the recoverable amount was calculated for each cash generating unit using a conservative pre-tax discount rate of 8.5% (2018: 9.0%), and assumed a long term growth rate of 3.0% (2018: 3.0%). The pre-tax discount rate of 8.5% was above the range of rates calculated for each of the global networks and for smaller cash-generating units that operate primarily in a particular region where we calculated a discount rate to be higher than 8.5%, that higher discount rate was used in the impairment test. Management have made the judgement that the long-term growth rate does not exceed the long-term average growth rate for the industry.

The recoverable amount was then compared to the carrying amount. Cash-generating units where the recoverable amount exceeded the carrying amount by a considerable margin were not considered to be impaired. Those cash-generating units where the recoverable amount did not exceed the carrying amount or where the recoverable amount exceeded the carrying amount by less than 25% were then further reviewed in the second step.

In the second step, the cash-generating units were retested for impairment using more specific assumptions. This included using a cash-generating unit specific pre-tax discount rate and management forecasts for a projection period of up to five years, followed by an assumed long-term growth rate of 3.0% (2018: 3.0%). If the recoverable amount using the more specific assumptions did not exceed the carrying value of a cash-generating unit, an impairment charge was recorded.

Pre-tax discount rates were calculated for the geographic regions in which the cash-generating units operate based on market assessments of the weighted average cost of capital. These assessments considered the time-value of money and risks specific to the asset for which the future cash flow estimates had not been adjusted, giving a range of pre-tax discount rates from 4.1% to 13.6% (2018: 6.2% to 16.3%).

Discount rates for each of the cash-generating units that operate globally were based on a weighting of the regional rates by its geographic distribution of cash flows, ranging from 6.3% to 7.4% (2018: 8.0% to 8.7%). The cash-generating units were initially tested for impairment in the first step using a conservative discount rate of 8.5% (2018: 9.0%).

Our approach in determining the recoverable amount utilises a discounted cash flow methodology, which necessarily involves making numerous estimates and assumptions regarding revenue growth, operating margins, appropriate discount rates and working capital requirements. The key assumptions used for estimating cash flow projections in the Group’s impairment testing are those relating to revenue growth and operating margin. The key assumptions take account of the businesses’ expectations for the projection period. These expectations consider the macroeconomic environment, industry and market conditions, the unit’s historical performance and any other circumstances particular to the unit, such as business strategy and client mix.

These estimates will likely differ from future actual results of operations and cash flows, and it is possible that these differences could be material. In addition, judgements are applied in determining the level of cash-generating unit identified for impairment testing and the criteria used to determine which assets should be aggregated. A difference in testing levels could affect whether an impairment is recorded and the extent of impairment loss.

Changes in our business activities or structure may also result in additional changes to the level of testing in future periods. Further, future events could cause the Group to conclude that impairment indicators exist and that the asset values associated with a given operation have become impaired. The recoverable amount of goodwill represents valuations as at 31 December 2019 and does not consider the impact of the emergence and spread of the Covid-19 virus. Given the adverse impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the global economy and the likely revenue declines that are expected as a result, there is an increased likelihood of impairments to goodwill and other indefinite lived intangible assets in future reporting periods. At the current time, given the level of uncertainty, such impact has not been quantified and any resulting impairment loss could have a material impact on the Group’s financial condition and results of operations.

Historically our impairment losses have resulted from a specific event, condition or circumstance in one of our companies, such as the loss of a significant client. As a result, changes in the assumptions used in our impairment model have not had a significant effect on the impairment charges recognised and a reasonably possible change in assumptions would not lead to a significant impairment. The carrying value of goodwill and other intangible assets will continue to be reviewed at least annually for impairment and adjusted down to the recoverable amount if required.

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Property, plant and equipment

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

Text block [abstract]

Property, plant and equipment

15. Property, plant and equipment

The movements in 2019 and 2018 were as follows:

	Land £m			Freehold buildings £m			Leasehold buildings £m			Fixtures, fittings and equipment £m			Computer equipment £m			Total £m
Cost
1 January 2018		37.1			118.8			1,081.8			377.2			703.0			2,317.9
Additions		–			17.7			161.4			49.9			85.8			314.8
New acquisitions		–			0.1			0.9			1.2			0.9			3.1
Disposals		–			–			(83.5	)		(62.9	)		(109.3	)		(255.7	)
Exchange adjustments		–			(1.1	)		41.8			9.9			10.0			60.6
31 December 2018		37.1			135.5			1,202.4			375.3			690.4			2,440.7
Additions		–			33.7			158.5			35.0			67.7			294.9
New acquisitions		–			–			–			0.1			–			0.1
Disposals		–			(109.0	)		(167.3	)		(68.3	)		(76.3	)		(420.9	)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(2.8	)		(17.1	)		(98.1	)		(115.2	)		(231.5	)		(464.7	)
Exchange adjustments		–			(16.9	)		(46.7	)		(14.5	)		(26.4	)		(104.5	)
31 December 2019		34.3			26.2			1,048.8			212.4			423.9			1,745.6
Depreciation
1 January 2018		–			28.5			526.1			236.9			546.9			1,338.4
Charge for the year		–			3.1			91.5			44.4			86.1			225.1
Disposals		–			–			(74.6	)		(58.0	)		(107.9	)		(240.5	)
Exchange adjustments		–			(4.5	)		24.3			6.4			8.5			34.7
31 December 2018		–			27.1			567.3			229.7			533.6			1,357.7
Charge for the year		–			1.5			79.9			36.3			67.8			185.5
Disposals		–			(7.2	)		(129.9	)		(59.9	)		(74.5	)		(271.5	)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		–			(15.6	)		(56.1	)		(81.7	)		(192.6	)		(346.0	)
Exchange adjustments		–			(1.6	)		(17.9	)		(13.2	)		(23.4	)		(56.1	)
31 December 2019		–			4.2			443.3			111.2			310.9			869.6
Net book value
31 December 2019		34.3			22.0			605.5			101.2			113.0			876.0
31 December 2018		37.1			108.4			635.1			145.6			156.8			1,083.0
1 January 2018		37.1			90.3			555.7			140.3			156.1			979.5

At 31 December 2019, capital commitments contracted, but not provided for in respect of property, plant and equipment, were £165.0 million (2018: £28.4 million). The increase is due to a number of significant property developments in North America, UK and Western Continental Europe. 

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Interests in associates, joint ventures and other investments

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

Investments accounted for using equity method [abstract]

Interests in associates, joint ventures and other investments

16. Interests in associates, joint ventures and other investments

The movements in 2019 and 2018 were as follows:

	Interests in associates and joint ventures £m			Other investments £m
1 January 2018		1,065.2			1,153.5
Additions		16.7			35.0
Share of results of associate undertakings		43.5			–
Dividends		(49.7	)		–
Other movements		1.2			–
Reclassification from other investments to associates		0.3			(0.3	)
Exchange adjustments		12.9			–
Disposals		(304.0	)		(341.7	)
Reclassification to subsidiaries		16.9			–
Revaluation of other investments through profit or loss		–			68.1
Revaluation of other investments through other comprehensive income		–			(247.9	)
Amortisation of other intangible assets		(4.2	)		–
Write-downs		(2.0	)		–
31 December 2018		796.8			666.7
Additions		236.6			18.3
Share of results of associate undertakings		21.2			–
Dividends		(33.3	)		–
Other movements		1.2			–
Exchange adjustments		(35.5	)		–
Disposals		(51.5	)		(42.3	)
Reclassification to subsidiaries		(0.3	)		–
Revaluation of other investments through profit or loss		–			9.1
Revaluation of other investments through other comprehensive income		–			(141.4	)
Amortisation of other intangible assets		(5.6	)		–
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(109.1	)		(12.1	)
Write-downs		(7.5	)		–
31 December 2019		813.0			498.3

The investments included above as “other investments” represent investments in equity securities that present the Group with opportunity for return through dividend income and trading gains. They have no fixed maturity or coupon rate. The fair values of the listed securities are based on quoted market prices. For unlisted securities, where market value is not available, the Group has estimated relevant fair values on the basis of publicly available information from outside sources.

The carrying values of the Group’s associates and joint ventures are reviewed for impairment in accordance with the Group’s accounting policies.

The fair value of other investments represents valuations as at 31 December 2019 and does not consider the impact of the emergence and spread of the Covid-19 virus.

The Group’s principal associates and joint ventures at 31 December 2019 included:

	% owned		Country of incorporation
Barrows Design and Manufacturing (Pty) Limited		35.0		South Africa
Dat Viet VAC Media Corporation		30.0		Vietnam
GIIR Inc.		30.0		Korea
Haworth Marketing & Media Company		49.0		USA
High Co SA		34.1		France
Joye Media SL1		22.5		Spain
Nanjing Yindu Ogilvy Advertising Co. Ltd		49.0		China
Smollan Holdings (Pty) Ltd		24.8		South Africa
Summer (BC) JVCo S.à r.l.2		40.0		Luxembourg
Summer (BC) US JVCo SCSp2		40.0		Luxembourg

Notes

1  Representing the Group’s interest in Imagina.

2  Representing the Group’s interest in Kantar split between the United States and rest of world.

The market value of the Group’s shares in its principal listed associate undertakings at 31 December 2019 was as follows: GIIR Inc: £21.2 million, and High Co SA: £39.4 million (2018: GIIR Inc: £26.3 million and High Co SA: £30.3 million). The carrying value (including goodwill and other intangibles) of these equity interests in the Group’s consolidated balance sheet at 31 December 2019 was as follows: GIIR Inc: £37.7 million and High Co SA: £35.4 million (2018: GIIR Inc: £46.8 million and High Co SA: £37.1 million).

Where the market value of the Group’s listed associates is less than the carrying value, an impairment review is performed utilising the discounted cash flow methodology discussed in note 14, which represents the value in use.

The Group’s investments in its principal associate undertakings are represented by ordinary shares.

Summarised financial information

The following tables present a summary of the aggregate financial performance and net asset position of the Group’s associate undertakings and joint ventures. These have been estimated and converted, where appropriate, to an IFRS presentation based on information provided by the relevant companies at 31 December 2019.

	2019 £m			2018 £m			2017 £m
Income statement
Revenue		3,619.1			3,685.8			3,800.8
Operating profit		365.6			378.4			440.4
Profit before taxation		(385.9	)		194.7			381.9
Profit for the year		(429.6	)		118.1			312.5
Balance sheet
Assets		8,855.1			2,940.9			3,192.9
Liabilities		(6,765.7	)		(1,570.6	)		(1,633.7	)
Net assets		2,089.4			1,370.3			1,559.2

The application of equity accounting is ordinarily discontinued when the investment is reduced to zero and additional losses are not provided for unless the Group has guaranteed obligations of the investee or is otherwise committed to provide further financial support for the investee.

At 31 December 2019, capital commitments contracted, but not provided for, in respect of interests in associates and other investments were £21.8 million (2018: £31.4 million).

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Deferred tax

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

Text block [abstract]

Deferred tax

17. Deferred tax

The Group’s deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured at the end of each period in accordance with IAS 12 Income taxes. The recognition of deferred tax assets is determined by reference to the Group’s estimate of recoverability, using models where appropriate to forecast future taxable profits.

Deferred tax assets have only been recognised for territories where the Group considers that it is probable that all or a portion of the deferred tax assets will be realised. The main factors that we consider include:

– the future earnings potential determined through the use of internal forecasts;

– the cumulative losses in recent years;

– the various jurisdictions in which the potential deferred tax assets arise;

– the history of losses carried forward and other tax assets expiring;

– the timing of future reversal of taxable temporary differences;

– the expiry period associated with the deferred tax assets; and

– the nature of the income that can be used to realise the deferred tax asset.

If it is probable that some portion of these assets will not be realised, then no asset is recognised in relation to that portion.

If market conditions improve and future results of operations exceed our current expectations, our existing recognised deferred tax assets may be adjusted, resulting in future tax benefits. Alternatively, if market conditions deteriorate further or future results of operations are less than expected, future assessments may result in a determination that some or all of the deferred tax assets are not realisable. As a result, all or a portion of the deferred tax assets may need to be reversed.

Certain deferred tax assets and liabilities have been offset as they relate to the same tax group. The following is the analysis of the deferred tax balances for financial reporting purposes:

	Gross 2019 £m			Offset 2019 £m			As reported 2019 £m			Gross 2018 £m			Offset 2018 £m			As reported 2018 £m
Deferred tax assets		430.9			(243.0	)		187.9			412.0			(259.0	)		153.0
Deferred tax liabilities		(622.8	)		243.0			(379.8	)		(738.5	)		259.0			(479.5	)
		(191.9	)					(191.9	)		(326.5	)		–			(326.5	)

The following are the major gross deferred tax assets recognised by the Group and movements thereon in 2019 and 2018:

	Deferred compensation £m			Accounting provisions and accruals £m			Retirement benefit obligations £m			Property, plant and equipment £m			Tax losses and credits £m			Share- based payments £m			Restructuring provisions £m			Other temporary differences £m			Total £m
1 January 2018		53.5			84.9			75.6			68.4			72.7			33.0			5.8			17.9			411.8
Acquisition of subsidiaries		–			–			–			–			–			–			–			2.0			2.0
Credit/(charge) to income		4.7			13.0			(11.2	)		(20.6	)		(8.9	)		(15.3	)		10.7			11.0			(16.6	)
Charge to other comprehensive income		–			–			(0.2	)		–			–			–			–			–			(0.2	)
Charge to equity		–			–			–			–			–			(1.6	)		–			–			(1.6	)
Exchange differences		3.4			3.5			4.3			0.1			3.3			0.7			0.8			0.5			16.6
31 December 2018		61.6			101.4			68.5			47.9			67.1			16.8			17.3			31.4			412.0
(Charge)/credit to income		(1.7	)		10.2			6.7			19.4			24.2			2.9			12.5			(16.6	)		57.6
Charge to other comprehensive income		–			–			(3.2	)		–			–			–			–			–			(3.2	)
Credit to equity		–			–			–			27.8			–			3.1			–			–			30.9
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(4.2	)		(19.2	)		(12.3	)		(13.6	)		(3.0	)		(0.7	)		(3.4	)		0.1			(56.3	)
Exchange differences		(2.2	)		(5.0	)		(2.2	)		3.2			(2.0	)		(0.6	)		(0.6	)		(0.7	)		(10.1	)
31 December 2019		53.5			87.4			57.5			84.7			86.3			21.5			25.8			14.2			430.9

Other temporary differences comprise a number of items including tax deductible goodwill, none of which is individually significant to the Group’s consolidated balance sheet. At 31 December 2019 the balance related to temporary differences in relation to revenue adjustments, tax deductible goodwill, fair value adjustments, and other temporary differences.

In addition the Group has recognised the following gross deferred tax liabilities and movements thereon in 2019 and 2018:

	Brands and other intangibles £m			Associate earnings £m			Goodwill £m			Property, plant and equipment £m			Financial instruments £m			Other temporary differences £m			Total £m
1 January 2018		489.2			21.6			140.4			21.2			36.2			56.6			765.2
Acquisition of subsidiaries		10.7			–			–			–			–			–			10.7
(Credit)/charge to income		(68.8	)		(3.9	)		31.8			(0.3	)		(0.9	)		(20.7	)		(62.8	)
Charge to other comprehensive income		–			–			–			–			–			0.5			0.5
Exchange differences		7.5			(0.1	)		10.1			1.3			4.6			1.5			24.9
31 December 2018		438.6			17.6			182.3			22.2			39.9			37.9			738.5
Acquisition of subsidiaries		0.8			–			–			–			–			–			0.8
(Credit)/charge to income		(31.2	)		68.6			10.3			(22.2	)		(0.7	)		(6.7	)		18.1
Credit to other comprehensive income		–			–			–			–			–			(9.6	)		(9.6	)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(46.6	)		(7.9	)		(51.7	)		–			–			0.6			(105.6	)
Exchange differences		(9.3	)		(1.8	)		(5.5	)		–			(2.3	)		(0.5	)		(19.4	)
31 December 2019		352.3			76.5			135.4			–			36.9			21.7			622.8

At the balance sheet, the Group has gross tax losses and other temporary differences of £6,475.6 million (2018: £6,638.6 million) available for offset against future profits. Deferred tax assets have been recognised in respect of the tax benefit of £1,856.6 million (2018: £1,763.4 million) of such tax losses and other temporary differences. No deferred tax asset has been recognised in respect of the remaining £4,619.0 million (2018: £4,875.2 million) of losses and other temporary differences as the Group considers that there will not be enough taxable profits in the entities concerned such that any additional asset could be considered recoverable. Included in the total unrecognised temporary differences are losses of £60.7 million (2018: £46.4 million) that will expire within 1–10 years, and £4,437.6 million (2018: £4,572.6 million) of losses that may be carried forward indefinitely.

At the balance sheet date, the aggregate amount of the temporary differences in relation to the investment in subsidiaries for which deferred tax liabilities have not been recognised was £2,165.3 million (2018: £1,768.5 million). No liability has been recognised in respect of these differences because the Group is in a position to control the timing of the reversal of the temporary differences and the Group considers that it is probable that such differences will not reverse in the foreseeable future.

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Trade and other receivables

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

Text block [abstract]

Trade and other receivables

18. Trade and other receivables

The following are included in trade and other receivables:

Amounts falling due within one year	2019 £m		2018 £m
Trade receivables (net of bad debt provision)		7,007.6		8,062.2
Work in progress		349.5		366.5
VAT and sales taxes recoverable		212.7		264.2
Prepayments		287.1		287.3
Accrued income		3,292.7		3,541.2
Fair value of derivatives		1.4		1.3
Other debtors		671.3		578.8
		11,822.3		13,101.5

The ageing of trade receivables and other financial assets by due date is as follows:

	Carrying amount at 31 December 2019 £m		Not past due £m		Days past due
2019					0-30 days £m		31-90 days £m		91-180 days £m		181 days- 1 year £m		Greater than 1 year £m
Trade receivables		7,007.6		5,553.3		934.9		341.0		92.1		22.4		63.9
Other financial assets		582.5		357.6		129.9		48.3		16.2		5.2		25.3
		7,590.1		5,910.9		1,064.8		389.3		108.3		27.6		89.2
	Carrying amount at 31 December 2018 £m		Not past due £m		Days past due
2018					0-30 days £m		31-90 days £m		91-180 days £m		181 days- 1 year £m		Greater than 1 year £m
Trade receivables		8,062.2		5,873.7		1,370.7		549.1		128.3		75.6		64.8
Other financial assets		551.7		424.9		61.3		14.2		8.6		7.7		35.0
		8,613.9		6,298.6		1,432.0		563.3		136.9		83.3		99.8

Other financial assets are included in other debtors.

Past due amounts are not impaired where collection is considered likely.

Amounts falling due after more than one year	2019 £m		2018 £m
Prepayments		2.2		3.0
Accrued income		–		16.5
Fair value of derivatives		–		8.4
Other debtors		135.4		152.1
		137.6		180.0

The Group has applied the practical expedient permitted by IFRS 15 to not disclose the transaction price allocated to performance obligations unsatisfied (or partially unsatisfied) as of the end of the reporting period as contracts typically have an original expected duration of a year or less.

Bad debt provisions:

	2019 £m			2018 £m			2017 £m
At beginning of year		116.6			91.3			93.8
New acquisitions		5.0			1.5			1.2
Charged to the income statement		45.4			66.7			27.4
Released to the income statement		(19.0	)		(11.6	)		(8.4	)
Exchange adjustments		(4.1	)		2.1			(4.1	)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(8.9	)		–			–
Utilisations and other movements		(23.3	)		(33.4	)		(18.6	)
At end of year		111.7			116.6			91.3

The allowance for bad and doubtful debts is equivalent to 1.6% (2018: 1.4%, 2017: 1.1%) of gross trade accounts receivables.

Impairment losses on work in progress and accrued income were immaterial for the years presented.

The Group considers that the carrying amount of trade and other receivables approximates their fair value.  

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Trade and other payables: amounts falling due within one year

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

Within one year [member]

Statement [LineItems]

Trade and other payables: amounts falling due within one year

19. Trade and other payables: amounts falling due within one year

The following are included in trade and other payables falling due within one year:

	20191 £m		20181 £m
Trade payables		10,112.1		10,524.3
Deferred income		1,024.6		1,253.6
Payments due to vendors (earnout agreements)		143.4		149.1
Liabilities in respect of put option agreements with vendors		75.7		19.4
Fair value of derivatives		1.5		2.6
Share repurchases - close period commitments2		252.3		–
Other creditors and accruals		2,578.5		3,072.9
		14,188.1		15,021.9

Notes

1  Figures have been restated to be in accordance with IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, as described in the accounting policies

2  During 2019, the Company entered into an arrangement with a third party to conduct share buybacks on its behalf in the close period commencing on 2 January 2020 and ending on 27 February 2020, in accordance with UK listing rules. The commitment resulting from this agreement constitutes a liability at 31 December 2019, which is included in Trade and other payables: amounts falling due within one year and has been recognised as a movement in equity.

The Group considers that the carrying amount of trade and other payables approximates their fair value.

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Trade and other payables: amounts falling due after more than one year

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

Text block [abstract]

Trade and other payables: amounts falling due after more than one year

20. Trade and other payables: amounts falling due after more than one year

The following are included in trade and other payables falling due after more than one year:

	20191 £m		20181 £m
Payments due to vendors (earnout agreements)		100.3		251.7
Liabilities in respect of put option agreements with vendors		128.8		188.6
Fair value of derivatives		21.2		14.2
Other creditors and accruals		199.3		355.5
		449.6		810.0

Note

1  Figures have been restated to be in accordance with IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, as described in the accounting policies

The Group considers that the carrying amount of trade and other payables approximates their fair value.

The following tables set out payments due to vendors, comprising contingent consideration and the Directors’ best estimates of future earnout-related obligations:

	20191 £m			20181 £m
Within one year		143.4			149.1
Between one and two years		36.3			140.0
Between two and three years		34.6			36.6
Between three and four years		12.3			44.0
Between four and five years		7.7			17.1
Over five years		9.4			14.0
		243.7			400.8
	2019 £m			2018 £m
At beginning of year		400.8			584.5
Earnouts paid		(130.0	)		(120.2	)
New acquisitions		9.6			48.6
Revision of estimates taken to goodwill (note 14)		(14.1	)		(67.6	)
Revaluation of payments due to vendors		3.8			(50.5	)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(11.5	)		–
Exchange adjustments		(14.9	)		6.0
At end of year		243.7			400.8

Note

1  Figures have been restated to be in accordance with IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, as described in the accounting policies

As of 31 December 2019, the potential undiscounted amount of future payments that could be required under the earnout agreements for acquisitions completed in the current year and for all earnout agreements ranges from £nil to £14 million (2018: £nil to £179 million) and £nil to £1,110 million (2018: £nil to £1,960 million), respectively. The decrease in the maximum potential undiscounted amount of future payments for all earnout agreements is due to earnout arrangements that have completed and payments made on active arrangements during the year, disposal related to the Kantar sale and exchange adjustments, partially offset by earnout arrangements related to new acquisitions.

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Bank overdrafts, bonds and bank loans

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

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Bank overdrafts, bonds and bank loans

21. Bank overdrafts, bonds and bank loans

Amounts falling due within one year:

	20191 £m		20181 £m
Bank overdrafts		8,572.4		8,864.6
Corporate bonds and bank loans		225.6		583.1
		8,798.0		9,447.7

The Group considers that the carrying amount of bank overdrafts approximates their fair value.

Amounts falling due after more than one year:

	2019 £m		2018 £m
Corporate bonds and bank loans		4,047.3		5,634.8

The Group estimates that the fair value of corporate bonds is £4,439.8 million at 31 December 2019 (2018: £5,965.7 million). The fair values of the corporate bonds are based on quoted market prices.

The Group considers that the carrying amount of bank loans of £110.4 million (2018: £186.8 million) approximates their fair value.

The corporate bonds, bank loans and overdrafts included within liabilities fall due for repayment as follows:

	20191 £m		20181 £m
Within one year		8,798.0		9,447.7
Between one and two years		96.4		423.8
Between two and three years		590.4		761.0
Between three and four years		632.1		609.8
Between four and five years		554.3		670.1
Over five years		2,174.1		3,170.1
		12,845.3		15,082.5

Note

1  Figures have been restated to be in accordance with IAS 32 Financial Instruments: Presentation, as described in the accounting policies.

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Provisions for liabilities and charges

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

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Provisions for liabilities and charges

22. Provisions for liabilities and charges

The movements in 2019 and 2018 were as follows:

	Property £m			Other £m			Total £m
1 January 2018		52.6			176.4			229.0
Charged to the income statement1		72.1			13.9			86.0
Acquisitions2		0.5			8.3			8.8
Utilised		(5.7	)		(20.1	)		(25.8	)
Released to the income statement		(5.7	)		(4.6	)		(10.3	)
Other movements		2.0			10.9			12.9
Exchange adjustments		2.9			8.2			11.1
31 December 2018		118.7			193.0			311.7
Charged to the income statement		39.5			7.6			47.1
Acquisitions2		–			0.7			0.7
Utilised		(1.2	)		(12.2	)		(13.4	)
Released to the income statement		(10.3	)		(6.9	)		(17.2	)
Other movements3		(58.4	)		9.2			(49.2	)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(6.2	)		(18.4	)		(24.6	)
Exchange adjustments		(0.6	)		(6.7	)		(7.3	)
31 December 2019		81.5			166.3			247.8

Notes

1  Amounts charged to the income statement in 2018 include £50.6 million in regard to transformation costs with respect to the strategic initiative of co-locations in major cities.

2  Acquisitions include £0.7 million (2018: £8.4 million) of provisions arising from revisions to fair value adjustments related to the acquisition of subsidiary undertakings that had been determined provisionally at the immediately preceding balance sheet date, as permitted by IFRS 3 Business Combinations.

3 Other movements include transfers of property provisions related to property leases which are now recognised in the right-of-use assets, increases of certain property-related liabilities and certain long-term employee benefits.

The Company and various of its subsidiaries are, from time to time, parties to legal proceedings and claims which arise in the ordinary course of business. The Directors do not anticipate that the outcome of these proceedings and claims will have a material adverse effect on the Group’s financial position or on the results of its operations.

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Share-based payments

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

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Share-based payments

23. Share-based payments

Charges for share-based incentive plans were as follows:

Continuing operations	2019 £m		20181 £m		20171 £m
Share-based payments		66.0		78.3		98.3

Note

1  Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies.

Share-based payments comprise charges for stock options and restricted stock awards to employees of the Group.

As of 31 December 2019, there was £140.7 million (2018: £146.0 million) of total unrecognised compensation cost related to the Group’s restricted stock plans. That cost is expected to be recognised over an average period of one to two years.

Further information on stock options is provided in note 28.

Restricted stock plans

The Group operates a number of equity-settled share incentive schemes, in most cases satisfied by the delivery of stock from one of the Group’s ESOP Trusts. The most significant current schemes are as follows:

Executive Performance Share Plan (EPSP)

This scheme is intended to reward and incentivise the most senior executives of the Group. The performance period is five complete financial years, commencing with the financial year in which the award is granted. The vest date will usually be in the March following the end of the five-year performance period. Vesting is conditional on continued employment throughout the vesting period.

The 2019 EPSP awards are subject to a relative Total Shareholder Return (“TSR”) performance condition, with a Return on Invested Capital (“ROIC”) underpin. TSR performance will be compared to companies representing the most relevant, listed global competitors, with performance below median resulting in zero vesting. Performance between median and upper decile provides for a vesting opportunity of between 15% and 100%. The awards will vest subject to a ROIC underpin of an average of 7.5% over the performance period. The Compensation Committee has an overriding discretion to determine the extent to which the award will vest.

For EPSP awards granted between 2013 and 2018 there are three performance criteria, each constituting one-third of the vesting value, and each measured over this five-year period:

(i) TSR against a comparator group of companies. Threshold performance (equating to ranking in the 50th percentile of the comparator group) will result in 20% vesting of the part of the award dependent on TSR. The maximum vest of 100% will arise if performance ranks in the 90th percentile, with a sliding scale of vesting for performance between threshold and maximum.

(ii) Headline diluted earnings per share. Threshold performance (7% compound annual growth) will again result in a 20% vest. Maximum performance of 14% compound annual growth will give rise to a 100% vest, with a sliding vesting scale for performance between threshold and maximum.

(iii) Return on equity (ROE). Average annual ROE defined as headline diluted EPS divided by the balance sheet value per share of shareholders’ equity. Threshold performance ranges between 10–14% average annual ROE and maximum performance ranges between 14–18%, with a sliding scale in between. Threshold again gives rise to a 20% vest, 100% for maximum, with a sliding scale in between.

Performance Share Awards (PSA)

Conditional stock awards made under the PSA are dependent upon annual performance targets, typically based on one or more of: operating profit, profit before taxation and operating margin. Grants are made in the year following the year of performance measurement, and vest two years after grant date provided the individual concerned is continually employed by the Group throughout this time.

Leaders, Partners and High Potential Group

This scheme makes annual conditional stock awards to approximately 1,500 key executives of the Group. Vesting is conditional on continued employment over the three-year vesting period.

Valuation methodology

For all of these schemes, the valuation methodology is based upon fair value on grant date, which is determined by the market price on that date or the application of a Black-Scholes model, depending upon the characteristics of the scheme concerned. The assumptions underlying the Black-Scholes model are detailed in note 28, including details of assumed dividend yields. Market price on any given day is obtained from external, publicly available sources.

Market/non-market conditions

Most share-based plans are subject to non-market performance conditions, such as margin or growth targets, as well as continued employment. EPSP is subject to a number of performance conditions, including TSR, a market-based condition.

For schemes without market-based performance conditions, the valuation methodology above is applied and, at each year-end, the relevant accrual for each grant is revised, if appropriate, to take account of any changes in estimate of the likely number of shares expected to vest.

For schemes with market-based performance conditions, the probability of satisfying these conditions is assessed at grant date through a statistical model (such as the Monte Carlo model) and applied to the fair value. This initial valuation remains fixed throughout the life of the relevant plan, irrespective of the actual outcome in terms of performance. Where a lapse occurs due to cessation of employment, the cumulative charge taken to date is reversed.

Movement on ordinary shares granted for significant restricted stock plans:

	Non-vested 1 January 2019 number m		Granted number m		Lapsed number m			Vested number m			Non-vested 31 December 2019 number m
Executive Performance Share Plan (EPSP)		6.7		4.2		(1.3	)		(0.8	)		8.8
Performance Share Awards (PSA)		2.3		1.7		(0.4	)		(1.0	)		2.6
Leaders, Partners and High Potential Group		9.1		4.1		(1.9	)		(2.0	)		9.3
Weighted average fair value (pence per share):
Executive Performance Share Plan (EPSP)		1,363p		989p		1,334p			1,265p			1,198p
Performance Share Awards (PSA)		1,437p		926p		1,210p			1,572p			1,081p
Leaders, Partners and High Potential Group		1,154p		909p		1,076p			1,551p			974p

The total fair value of shares vested for all the Group’s restricted stock plans during the year ended 31 December 2019 was £90.8 million (2018: £107.2 million, 2017: £114.8 million).

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Provision for post-employment benefits

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

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Provision for post-employment benefits

24. Provision for post-employment benefits

Companies within the Group operate a large number of pension plans, the forms and benefits of which vary with conditions and practices in the countries concerned. The Group’s pension costs are analysed as follows:

Continuing operations	2019 £m		20181 £m		20171 £m
Defined contribution plans		154.9		146.7		149.5
Defined benefit plans charge to operating profit		14.8		14.2		11.8
Pension costs (note 5)		169.7		160.9		161.3
Net interest expense on pension plans (note 6)		3.5		3.6		5.4
		173.2		164.5		166.7

Note

1  Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies.

Defined benefit plans

The pension costs are assessed in accordance with the advice of local independent qualified actuaries. The latest full actuarial valuations for the various pension plans were carried out at various dates in the last three years. These valuations have been updated by the local actuaries to 31 December 2019. Valuations are as at 31 December 2019 and do not consider the impact of the emergence and spread of the Covid-19 virus.

The Group’s policy is to close existing defined benefit plans to new members. This has been implemented across a significant number of the pension plans.

Contributions to funded plans are determined in line with local conditions and practices. Contributions in respect of unfunded plans are paid as they fall due. The total contributions (for funded plans) and benefit payments (for unfunded plans) paid for 2019 amounted to £37.1 million (2018: £44.9 million, 2017: £68.2 million). Employer contributions and benefit payments in 2020 are expected to be approximately £25 million.

(a) Assumptions

There are a number of areas in pension accounting that involve estimates made by management based on advice of qualified advisors. These include establishing the discount rates, rates of increase in salaries and pensions in payment, inflation, and mortality assumptions. The main weighted average assumptions used for the actuarial valuations at 31 December are shown in the following table:

	2019 % pa		2018 % pa		2017 % pa		2016 % pa
UK
Discount rate1		2.0		2.8		2.4		2.5
Rate of increase in salaries2		n/a		n/a		n/a		3.5
Rate of increase in pensions in payment		4.4		4.3		4.1		4.1
Inflation		2.6		2.8		2.7		2.8
North America
Discount rate1		3.0		4.1		3.5		3.8
Rate of increase in salaries		3.0		3.0		3.1		3.1
Inflation		n/a		n/a		4.0		4.0
Western Continental Europe
Discount rate1		1.2		2.0		1.9		1.7
Rate of increase in salaries		2.2		2.3		1.9		2.0
Rate of increase in pensions in payment		1.8		1.2		1.2		1.3
Inflation		1.7		1.7		1.7		1.7
Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe
Discount rate1		4.6		5.0		4.2		4.2
Rate of increase in salaries		6.1		5.8		5.5		5.9
Inflation		3.7		3.6		4.0		4.0

Notes

1  Discount rates are based on high-quality corporate bond yields. In countries where there is no deep market in corporate bonds, the discount rate assumption has been set with regard to the yield on long-term government bonds.

2  The salary assumptions are no longer applicable to the UK as the plans were either frozen or bought out since 2017. Active participants will not accrue additional benefits for future services under these plans.

For the Group’s pension plans, the plans’ assets are invested with the objective of being able to meet current and future benefit payment needs, while controlling balance sheet volatility and future contributions. Pension plan assets are invested with a number of investment managers, and assets are diversified among equities, bonds, insured annuities, property and cash or other liquid investments. The primary use of bonds as an investment class is to match the anticipated cash flows from the plans to pay pensions. The Group is invested in high-quality corporate and government bonds which share similar risk characteristics and are of equivalent currency and term to the plan liabilities. Various insurance policies have also been bought historically to provide a more exact match for the cash flows, including a match for the actual mortality of specific plan members. These insurance policies effectively provide protection against both investment fluctuations and longevity risks. The strategic target allocation varies among the individual plans.

Management considers the types of investment classes in which the pension plan assets are invested. The types of investment classes are determined by economic and market conditions and in consideration of specific asset class risk.

Management periodically commissions detailed asset and liability studies performed by third-party professional investment advisors and actuaries that generate probability-adjusted expected future returns on those assets. These studies also project the estimated future pension payments and evaluate the efficiency of the allocation of the pension plan assets into various investment categories.

At 31 December 2019, the life expectancies underlying the value of the accrued liabilities for the main defined benefit pension plans operated by the Group were as follows:

Years life expectancy after age 65	All plans		North America		UK		Western Continental Europe		Other1
Current pensioners (at age 65) – male		22.2		21.9		23.1		20.8		14.0
Current pensioners (at age 65) – female		23.7		23.3		24.1		23.9		17.4
Future pensioners (current age 45) – male		23.8		23.4		24.7		23.2		14.0
Future pensioners (current age 45) – female		25.4		24.9		25.9		26.0		17.4

Note

1  Includes Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe.

The life expectancies after age 65 at 31 December 2018 were 22.2 years and 23.9 years for male and female current pensioners (at age 65) respectively, and 24.0 years and 25.7 years for male and female future pensioners (current age 45), respectively.

In the determination of mortality assumptions, management uses the most up-to-date mortality tables available in each country.

The following table provides information on the weighted average duration of the defined benefit pension obligations and the distribution of the timing of benefit payments for the next 10 years. The duration corresponds to the weighted average length of the underlying cash flows.

	All plans		North America		UK		Western Continental Europe		Other1
Weighted average duration of the defined benefit obligation (years)		11.2		9.1		13.8		12.7		8.5
Expected benefit payments over the next 10 years (£m)
Benefits expected to be paid within 12 months		51.4		25.1		15.8		5.8		4.7
Benefits expected to be paid in 2021		45.4		24.5		12.6		5.5		2.8
Benefits expected to be paid in 2022		46.9		26.0		12.7		5.8		2.4
Benefits expected to be paid in 2023		44.4		22.3		12.9		5.7		3.5
Benefits expected to be paid in 2024		42.3		20.9		13.0		5.6		2.8
Benefits expected to be paid in the next five years		216.1		94.7		67.1		32.6		21.7

Note

1  Includes Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe.

The following table presents a sensitivity analysis for each significant actuarial assumption showing how the defined benefit obligation would have been affected by changes in the relevant actuarial assumption that were reasonably possible at the balance sheet date. This sensitivity analysis applies to the defined benefit obligation only and not to the net defined benefit pension liability in its entirety, the measurement of which is driven by a number of factors including, in addition to the assumptions below, the fair value of plan assets.

The sensitivity analyses are based on a change in one assumption while holding all other assumptions constant so that interdependencies between the assumptions are excluded. The methodology applied is consistent with that used to determine the recognised defined benefit obligation. The sensitivity analysis for inflation is not shown as it is an underlying assumption to build the pension and salary increase assumptions. Changing the inflation assumption on its own without changing the salary or pension assumptions will not result in a significant change in pension liabilities. 

	Increase/(decrease) in benefit obligation
Sensitivity analysis of significant actuarial assumptions	2019 £m			2018 £m
Discount rate
Increase by 25 basis points:
UK		(8.2	)		(9.8	)
North America		(7.5	)		(8.8	)
Western Continental Europe		(3.8	)		(8.7	)
Other1		(0.7	)		(0.7	)
Decrease by 25 basis points:
UK		8.5			10.3
North America		7.7			9.1
Western Continental Europe		3.9			9.3
Other1		0.7			0.7
Rate of increase in salaries
Increase by 25 basis points:
Western Continental Europe		0.8			1.3
Other1		0.6			0.7
Decrease by 25 basis points:
Western Continental Europe		(0.8	)		(1.2	)
Other1		(0.6	)		(0.6	)
Rate of increase in pensions in payment
Increase by 25 basis points:
UK		0.7			1.3
Western Continental Europe		1.9			5.3
Decrease by 25 basis points:
UK		(0.6	)		(0.8	)
Western Continental Europe		(1.9	)		(5.0	)
Life expectancy
Increase in longevity by one additional year:
UK		11.7			13.6
North America		5.9			5.7
Western Continental Europe		4.3			6.9

Note

1  Includes Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe.

(b) Assets and liabilities

At 31 December, the fair value of the assets in the pension plans, and the assessed present value of the liabilities in the pension plans are shown in the following table:

	2019 £m			%		2018 £m			%		2017 £m			%
Equities		55.5			9.1		76.5			9.1		124.6			13.4
Bonds		272.5			44.8		544.9			64.8		520.0			55.9
Insured annuities1		239.1			39.3		90.9			10.8		178.5			19.2
Property		0.7			0.1		0.9			0.1		1.3			0.1
Cash		17.7			2.9		31.1			3.7		9.9			1.1
Other		23.0			3.8		96.3			11.5		95.7			10.3
Total fair value of assets		608.5			100.0		840.6			100.0		930.0			100.0
Present value of liabilities		(767.5	)				(1,024.0	)				(1,135.4	)
Deficit in the plans		(159.0	)				(183.4	)				(205.4	)
Irrecoverable surplus		–					(0.9	)				(0.9	)
Net liability2		(159.0	)				(184.3	)				(206.3	)
Plans in surplus		20.6					42.8					43.9
Plans in deficit		(179.6	)				(227.1	)				(250.2	)

Notes

1  The increase in 2019 from 2018 in the amount of assets held in insured annuities is attributable to the completion of buy-in transactions during 2019 for certain UK plans. The invested assets for these plans, as at 31 December 2018 consisted of a mixture of equities, bonds, cash and other assets, were transferred to an insurance company and, in accordance with IAS 19, all assets for these plans are now classified as insured annuities.

2  The related deferred tax asset is discussed in note 17.

All plan assets have quoted prices in active markets with the exception of insured annuities and other assets.

Surplus/(deficit) in plans by region	2019 £m			2018 £m			2017 £m
UK		0.3			33.7			31.5
North America		(45.2	)		(68.7	)		(89.2	)
Western Continental Europe		(79.4	)		(104.6	)		(107.7	)
Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe		(34.7	)		(43.8	)		(40.0	)
Deficit in the plans		(159.0	)		(183.4	)		(205.4	)

Some of the Group’s defined benefit plans are unfunded (or largely unfunded) by common custom and practice in certain jurisdictions. In the case of these unfunded plans, the benefit payments are made as and when they fall due. Pre-funding of these plans would not be typical business practice.

The following table shows the split of the deficit at 31 December between funded and unfunded pension plans.

	2019 Surplus/ (deficit) £m			2019 Present value of liabilities £m			2018 Surplus/ (deficit) £m			2018 Present value of liabilities £m			2017 Surplus/ (deficit) £m			2017 Present value of liabilities £m
Funded plans by region
UK		0.3			(247.6	)		33.7			(290.5	)		31.5			(387.5	)
North America		12.8			(286.2	)		(4.6	)		(375.3	)		(21.4	)		(385.4	)
Western Continental Europe		(33.3	)		(77.6	)		(35.8	)		(168.4	)		(37.9	)		(173.3	)
Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe		(3.6	)		(20.9	)		(6.6	)		(19.7	)		(4.2	)		(15.8	)
Deficit/liabilities in the funded plans		(23.8	)		(632.3	)		(13.3	)		(853.9	)		(32.0	)		(962.0	)
Unfunded plans by region
North America		(58.0	)		(58.0	)		(64.1	)		(64.1	)		(67.8	)		(67.8	)
Western Continental Europe		(46.1	)		(46.1	)		(68.8	)		(68.8	)		(69.8	)		(69.8	)
Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe		(31.1	)		(31.1	)		(37.2	)		(37.2	)		(35.8	)		(35.8	)
Deficit/liabilities in the unfunded plans		(135.2	)		(135.2	)		(170.1	)		(170.1	)		(173.4	)		(173.4	)
Deficit/liabilities in the plans		(159.0	)		(767.5	)		(183.4	)		(1,024.0	)		(205.4	)		(1,135.4	)

In accordance with IAS 19, plans that are wholly or partially funded are considered funded plans.

(c) Pension expense

The following tables show the breakdown of the pension expense between amounts charged to operating profit and amounts charged to finance costs:

Continuing operations	2019 £m		20181 £m		20171 £m
Service cost2		12.9		12.0		9.4
Administrative expenses		1.9		2.2		2.4
Charge to operating profit		14.8		14.2		11.8
Net interest expense on pension plans		3.5		3.6		5.4
Charge to profit before taxation for defined benefit plans		18.3		17.8		17.2

Notes

1  Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies.

2  Includes current service cost, past service costs related to plan amendments and (gain)/loss on settlements and curtailments.

The following tables show the breakdown of amounts recognised in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income (OCI):

	2019 £m			2018 £m			2017 £m
Return on plan assets (excluding interest income)		16.7			(43.9	)		13.4
Changes in demographic assumptions underlying the present value of the plan liabilities		5.9			3.8			12.7
Changes in financial assumptions underlying the present value of the plan liabilities		(64.3	)		45.2			(17.0	)
Experience gain arising on the plan liabilities		5.1			3.8			7.9
Actuarial (loss)/gain recognised in OCI		(36.6	)		8.9			17.0

(d) Movement in plan liabilities

The following table shows an analysis of the movement in the pension plan liabilities for each accounting period:

	2019 £m			2018 £m			2017 £m
Plan liabilities at beginning of year		1,024.0			1,135.4			1,209.8
Service cost1		14.9			15.5			13.0
Interest cost		26.2			30.7			32.9
Actuarial (gain)/loss:
Effect of changes in demographic assumptions		(5.9	)		(3.8	)		(12.7	)
Effect of changes in financial assumptions		64.3			(45.2	)		17.0
Effect of experience adjustments		(5.1	)		(3.8	)		(7.9	)
Benefits paid2		(140.8	)		(75.6	)		(79.7	)
(Gain)/loss due to exchange rate movements		(22.7	)		30.0			(36.4	)
Settlement payments3		(47.4	)		(70.4	)		(1.2	)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(148.0	)		–			–
Other4		8.0			11.2			0.6
Plan liabilities at end of year		767.5			1,024.0			1,135.4

Notes

1  Includes current service cost, past service costs related to plan amendments and (gain)/loss on settlements and curtailments.

2  In 2019, there was an amendment to a US defined benefit plan that allowed certain participants to receive immediate lump sum pay-outs, which totalled £69.7 million.

3  In 2019 and 2018, the Group completed the transfer of the defined benefit obligations for certain UK plans to an insurer resulting in £47.1 million and £70.4 million, respectively, in settlement payments.

4  Other includes acquisitions, disposals, plan participants’ contributions and reclassifications. The reclassifications represent certain of the Group’s defined benefit plans which are included in this note for the first time in the periods presented.

(e) Movement in plan assets

The following table shows an analysis of the movement in the pension plan assets for each accounting period:

	2019 £m			2018 £m			2017 £m
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year		840.6			930.0			934.2
Interest income on plan assets		22.4			26.3			26.6
Return on plan assets (excluding interest income)		16.7			(43.9	)		13.4
Employer contributions		37.1			44.9			68.2
Benefits paid1		(140.8	)		(75.6	)		(79.7	)
(Loss)/gain due to exchange rate movements		(15.7	)		23.0			(28.7	)
Settlement payments2		(47.4	)		(70.4	)		(1.2	)
Administrative expenses		(2.1	)		(3.4	)		(3.1	)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(111.1	)		–			–
Other3		8.8			9.7			0.3
Fair value of plan assets at end of year		608.5			840.6			930.0
Actual return on plan assets		39.1			(17.6	)		40.0

Notes

1  In 2019, there was an amendment to a US defined benefit plan that allowed certain participants to receive immediate lump sum pay-outs, which totalled £69.7 million.

2  In 2019 and 2018, the Group completed the transfer of the defined benefit obligations for certain UK plans to an insurer resulting in £47.1 million and £70.4 million, respectively, in settlement payments.

3  Other includes acquisitions, disposals, plan participants’ contributions and reclassifications. The reclassifications represent certain of the Group’s defined benefit plans which are included in this note for the first time in the periods presented.

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Event after the reporting period

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

Text block [abstract]

Event after the reporting period

25. Event after the reporting period

In the period since 31 December 2019, the emergence and spread of Covid-19 has impacted the Group and its clients. The coronavirus pandemic is adversely affecting and is expected to continue to adversely affect our business, revenues, results of operations, financial condition and prospects.

The Group has approximately £2.0 billion of undrawn credit facilities at 31 December 2019 and has supported this by further action to maintain liquidity, including the suspension of share buybacks and the 2019 final dividend. On working capital, we are constantly reviewing cash outflows and receipts to monitor our position. We are continuing to work closely with our clients to ensure timely payment for the services we have provided in line with contractual commitments. Cost reduction and cash conservation measures have also been taken, including the freezing of new hires, 20% salary and fee sacrifice for the CEO, Board members, Executive committee members and employees earning above certain thresholds. Additionally, savings have been identified on property and IT capital expenditure.

Close to 95% of our people are remote working and maintaining services to our clients and using creativity to support clients to adjust their communications, and support governments and NGOs in mitigating the impact of Covid-19.

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Risk management policies

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

Text block [abstract]

Risk management policies

26. Risk management policies

Foreign currency risk

The Group’s results in pounds sterling are subject to fluctuation as a result of exchange rate movements. The Group does not hedge this translation exposure to its earnings but does hedge the currency element of its net assets using foreign currency borrowings, cross-currency swaps and forward foreign exchange contracts.

The Group effects these currency net asset hedges by borrowing in the same currencies as the operating (or “functional”) currencies of its main operating units. The majority of the Group’s debt is therefore denominated in US dollars, pounds sterling and euros. The Group’s borrowings at 31 December 2019 were primarily made up of $1,563 million, £844 million and €2,600 million (2018: $2,784 million, £1,044 million and €3,200 million). The Group’s average gross debt during the course of 2019 was $2,509 million, £947 million and €3,128 million (2018: $3,377 million, £1,039 million and €3,202 million).

The Group’s operations conduct the majority of their activities in their own local currency and consequently the Group has no significant transactional foreign exchange exposures arising from its operations. Any significant cross-border trading exposures are hedged by the use of forward foreign-exchange contracts. No speculative foreign exchange trading is undertaken.

Interest rate risk

The Group is exposed to interest rate risk on both interest-bearing assets and interest-bearing liabilities. The Group has a policy of actively managing its interest rate risk exposure while recognising that fixing rates on all its debt eliminates the possibility of benefiting from rate reductions and similarly, having all its debt at floating rates unduly exposes the Group to increases in rates.

Including the effect of interest rate and cross-currency swaps, 100% of the year-end US dollar debt is at fixed rates averaging 4.06% for an average period of 95 months; 100% of the sterling debt is at a fixed rate of 2.73% for an average period of 188 months; 80.8% of the euro debt is at fixed rates averaging 2.34% for an average period of 82 months and 19.2% of the euro debt is at floating rates averaging 0.06% for an average of 16 months.

Going concern and liquidity risk

In considering going concern and liquidity risk, the Directors have reviewed the Group’s future cash requirements and earnings projections. The Directors believe these forecasts have been prepared on a prudent basis and have also considered the impact of a range of potential changes to trading performance. The Company’s forecasts and projections, taking account of (i) reasonably possible declines in revenue less pass-through costs; and (ii) remote declines in revenue less pass-through costs for stress-testing purposes as a consequence of the Covid-19 pandemic from April 2020 onwards compared to 2019, considering the Group’s bank covenant and liquidity headroom taking into account the suspension of share buybacks and the final dividend of 2019 and cost mitigation actions which are and which could be implemented, show that the Company and the Group would be able to operate with appropriate liquidity and within its banking covenants and be able to meet its liabilities as they fall due. The Company modelled a range of revenue less pass-through costs declines from 15% to over 35%. The Directors have concluded that the Group should be able to operate within its current facilities and comply with its banking covenants for the foreseeable future and therefore believe it is appropriate to prepare the financial statements of the Group on a going concern basis. The potential impact of Brexit has been considered and is not deemed to have a significant effect on this assessment.

At 31 December 2019, the Group has access to £6.3 billion of committed facilities with maturity dates spread over the years 2020 to 2046 as illustrated below:

		2020 £m		2021 £m		2022 £m		2023 £m		2024+ £m
£ bonds £400m (2.875% 2046)	400.0										400.0
US bond $220m (5.625% 2043)	165.8										165.8
US bond $93m (5.125% 2042)	70.0										70.0
Eurobonds €600m (1.625% 2030)	507.9										507.9
Eurobonds €750m (2.25% 2026)	634.9										634.9
Eurobonds €500m (1.375% 2025)	423.3										423.3
US bond $750m (3.75% 2024)	565.5										565.5
Bank revolver ($2,500m 2024)	1,884.9										1,884.9
Eurobonds €750m (3.0% 2023)	634.9								634.9
US bond $500m (3.625% 2022)	377.0						377.0
Eurobonds €250m (3m EURIBOR + 0.45% 2022)	211.6						211.6
Bank revolver (A$150m 2020, A$270m 2021)	222.4		79.4		143.0
Eurobonds €250m (3m EURIBOR + 0.32% 2020)	211.6		211.6
Total committed facilities available	6,309.8		291.0		143.0		588.6		634.9		4,652.3
Drawn down facilities at 31 December 2019	4,304.2		216.9		96.4		588.6		634.9		2,767.4
Undrawn committed credit facilities	2,005.6

Given the strong cash generation of the business, its debt maturity profile and available facilities, the Directors believe the Group has sufficient liquidity to match its requirements for the foreseeable future.

Treasury activities

Treasury activity is managed centrally from London, New York and Hong Kong, and is principally concerned with the monitoring of working capital, managing external and internal funding requirements and the monitoring and management of financial market risks, in particular interest rate and foreign exchange exposures.

The treasury operation is not a profit centre and its activities are carried out in accordance with policies approved by the Board of Directors and subject to regular review and audit.

The Group manages liquidity risk by ensuring continuity and flexibility of funding even in difficult market conditions. Undrawn committed borrowing facilities are maintained in excess of peak net-borrowing levels and debt maturities are closely monitored. Targets for debt less cash position are set on an annual basis and, to assist in meeting this, working capital targets are set for all the Group’s major operations.

Capital risk management

The Group manages its capital to ensure that entities in the Group will be able to continue as a going concern while maximising the return to stakeholders through the optimisation of the debt and equity balance. The capital structure of the Group consists of debt, which includes the borrowings disclosed in note 10, cash and cash equivalents and equity attributable to equity holders of the parent, comprising issued capital, reserves and retained earnings as disclosed in the consolidated statement of changes in equity and in notes 28 and 29.

Given the significant uncertainty over the coming months generated by the emergence and spread of Covid-19, the Group continues to monitor its capital structure. Our bond portfolio at the 31 December 2019 had an average maturity of 8.2 years, with only a May 2020 €250 million Eurobond due in the next two years.

Credit risk

The Group’s principal financial assets are cash and short-term deposits, trade and other receivables and investments, the carrying values of which represent the Group’s maximum exposure to credit risk in relation to financial assets, as shown in note 27.

The Group’s credit risk is primarily attributable to its trade receivables. The majority of the Group’s trade receivables are due from large national or multinational companies where the risk of default is considered low. The amounts presented in the consolidated balance sheet are net of allowances for doubtful receivables, estimated by the Group’s management based on expected losses, prior experience and their assessment of the current economic environment. A relatively small number of clients make up a significant percentage of the Group’s debtors, but no single client represents more than 5% of total trade receivables as at 31 December 2019.

The credit risk on liquid funds and derivative financial instruments is limited because the counterparties are banks with high credit ratings assigned by international credit-rating agencies or banks that have been financed by their government.

A relatively small number of clients contribute a significant percentage of the Group’s consolidated revenues. The Group’s clients generally are able to reduce advertising and marketing spending or cancel projects at any time for any reason. There can be no assurance that any of the Group’s clients will continue to utilise the Group’s services to the same extent, or at all, in the future. Clients can reduce their marketing spend, terminate contracts, or cancel projects on short notice. The loss of one or more of our largest clients, if not replaced by new accounts or an increase in business from existing clients, would adversely affect our financial condition.

Following the emergence and spread of Covid-19 in 2020, the Group continues to work closely with our clients to ensure timely payment for the services we have provided in line with contractual commitments. The Group constantly reviewing cash outflows and receipts to monitor our position.

Sensitivity analysis

The following sensitivity analysis addresses the effect of currency and interest rate risks on the Group’s financial instruments. The analysis assumes that all hedges are highly effective.

Currency risk

A 10% weakening of sterling against the Group’s major currencies would result in the following losses, which would arise on the retranslation of foreign currency denominated borrowings and derivatives. These losses would be partially offset in equity by a corresponding gain arising on the retranslation of the Group’s foreign currency net assets. A 10% strengthening of sterling would have an equal and opposite effect.

	20191 £m		20181 £m
US dollar		240.5		278.1
Euro		153.0		211.4

Notes

1 Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

Interest rate risk

A one percentage point increase in market interest rates for all currencies in which the Group had cash and borrowings at 31 December 2019 would increase profit before tax by approximately £22.6 million (2018: £7.2 million). A one percentage decrease in market interest rates would have an equal and opposite effect. This has been calculated by applying the interest rate change to the Group’s variable rate cash and borrowings.

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Financial instruments

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

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Financial instruments

27. Financial instruments

Currency derivatives

The Group utilises currency derivatives over significant future transactions and cash flows. The Group is a party to a variety of foreign currency derivatives in the management of its exchange rate exposures. The instruments purchased are primarily denominated in the currencies of the Group’s principal markets.

At the balance sheet date, cross currency swaps held at fair value through profit or loss have receipts of €500.0 million and payments of £444.1 million due in March 2025. The Group estimates the fair value of these contracts to be a net liability of £21.2 million (2018: net asset of £8.4 million). These amounts are based on market values of equivalent instruments at the balance sheet date, comprising £nil (2018: £8.4 million) assets included in trade and other receivables and £21.2 million (2018: £nil) liabilities included in trade and other payables.

At the balance sheet date, the total nominal amount of outstanding forward foreign exchange contracts not designated as hedges was £151.7 million (2018: £296.1 million). The Group estimates the fair value of these contracts to be a net liability of £0.1 million (2018: £1.3 million).

These arrangements are designed to address significant exchange exposure and are renewed on a revolving basis as required.

Interest rate swaps

The Group uses interest rate swaps as hedging instruments in fair value hedges to manage its exposure to interest rate movements on its borrowing. During 2019 the Group terminated contracts that had a nominal value of $812 million which had fixed rate receipts of 4.75% and floating interest payments averaging LIBOR plus 2.34% until November 2021. The Group also terminated contracts in 2019 that had a nominal value of $500 million which had fixed rate receipts of 3.63% and floating interest payments averaging LIBOR plus 1.52% until September 2022.

The fair value of interest rate swaps entered into at 31 December 2019 is estimated to be a net liability of £nil (2018: £14.2 million). These amounts are based on market values of equivalent instruments at the balance sheet date, comprising £nil (2018: £14.2 million) liabilities included in trade and other payables.

Changes in the fair value relating to the ineffective portion of interest rate swaps amounted to a gain of £1.0 million (2018: £0.9 million) which is included in the revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments for the year. This gain resulted from a £13.3 million loss on hedging instruments and a £14.3 million gain on hedged items.

An analysis of the Group’s financial assets and liabilities by accounting classification is set out below:

	Held at fair value through profit or loss			Held at fair  value through other comprehensive income		Amortised cost			Carrying value
	£m					£m			£m
2019
Other investments		255.7			242.6		–			498.3
Cash and short-term deposits1		–			–		11,305.7			11,305.7
Bank overdrafts, bonds and bank loans1		–			–		(8,798.0	)		(8,798.0	)
Bonds and bank loans		–			–		(4,047.3	)		(4,047.3	)
Trade and other receivables: amounts falling due within one year		–			–		7,530.8			7,530.8
Trade and other receivables: amounts falling due after more than one year		–			–		59.3			59.3
Trade and other payables: amounts falling due within one year		–			–		(10,191.6	)		(10,191.6	)
Trade and other payables: amounts falling due after more than one year		–			–		(2.6	)		(2.6	)
Derivative assets		1.4			–		–			1.4
Derivative liabilities2		(22.7	)		–		–			(22.7	)
Payments due to vendors (earnout agreements) (note 20)2		(243.7	)		–		–			(243.7	)
Liabilities in respect of put options2		(204.5	)		–		–			(204.5	)
		(213.8	)		242.6		(4,143.7	)		(4,114.9	)

	Derivatives in designated hedge relationships		Held at fair value through profit or loss			Held at fair  value through other comprehensive income		Amortised cost			Carrying value
	£m		£m			£m		£m			£m
2018
Other investments		–		319.6			347.1		–			666.7
Cash and short-term deposits1		–		–			–		11,065.8			11,065.8
Bank overdrafts, bonds and bank loans1		–		–			–		(9,447.7	)		(9,447.7	)
Bonds and bank loans		–		–			–		(5,634.8	)		(5,634.8	)
Trade and other receivables: amounts falling due within one year		–		–			–		8,545.6			8,545.6
Trade and other receivables: amounts falling due after more than one year		–		–			–		68.3			68.3
Trade and other payables: amounts falling due within one year		–		–			–		(10,637.3	)		(10,637.3	)
Trade and other payables: amounts falling due after more than one year		–		–			–		(8.4	)		(8.4	)
Derivative assets		–		9.7			–		–			9.7
Derivative liabilities		(14.2)		(2.6	)		–		–			(16.8	)
Payments due to vendors (earnout agreements) (note 20)2		–		(400.8	)		–		–			(400.8	)
Liabilities in respect of put options2		–		(208.0	)		–		–			(208.0	)
		(14.2)		(282.1	)		347.1		(6,048.5	)		(5,997.7	)

Notes

1  Figures have been restated to be in accordance with IAS 32 Financial Instruments: Presentation, as described in the accounting policies.

2  Figures have been restated to be in accordance with IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, as described in the accounting policies.

The following table provides an analysis of financial instruments that are measured subsequent to initial recognition at fair value, grouped into levels 1 to 3 based on the degree to which the fair value is observable:

Level 1 fair value measurements are those derived from quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities;

Level 2 fair value measurements are those derived from inputs other than quoted prices included within level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly (ie as prices) or indirectly (ie derived from prices);

Level 3 fair value measurements are those derived from valuation techniques that include inputs for the asset or liability that are not based on observable market data (unobservable inputs).

	Level 1 £m		Level  21 £m			Level  31 £m
2019
Held at fair value through profit or loss
Other investments		–		–			255.7
Derivative assets		–		1.4			–
Derivative liabilities		–		(22.7	)		–
Payments due to vendors (earnout agreements) (note 20)		–		–			(243.7	)
Liabilities in respect of put options		–		–			(204.5	)
Held at fair value through other comprehensive income
Other investments		42.2		–			200.4

	Level 1 £m		Level 2 £m			Level 3 £m
2018
Derivatives in designated hedge relationships
Derivative liabilities		–		(14.2	)		–
Held at fair value through profit or loss
Other investments		0.4		–			319.2
Derivative assets		–		1.3			–
Derivative liabilities		–		(2.6	)		–
Payments due to vendors (earnout agreements) (note 20)		–		–			(400.8	)
Liabilities in respect of put options		–		–			(208.0	)
Held at fair value through other comprehensive income
Other investments		128.1		–			219.0

Note

1  Figures have been restated to be in accordance with IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, as described in the accounting policies

There have been no transfers between these levels in the years presented.

Reconciliation of level 3 fair value measurements1:

	Liabilities in respect of put options £m2			Other investments £m
1 January 2018		(221.7	)		820.3
Gains recognised in the income statement		26.0			61.1
Losses recognised in other comprehensive income		–			(140.6	)
Exchange adjustments		1.1			–
Additions		(37.4	)		35.0
Disposals		–			(237.3	)
Cancellations		2.2			–
Reclassifications from other investments to interests in associates		–			(0.3	)
Settlements		21.8			–
31 December 2018		(208.0	)		538.2
(Losses)/gains recognised in the income statement		(30.1	)		9.1
Losses recognised in other comprehensive income		–			(55.4	)
Exchange adjustments		6.9			–
Additions		(34.8	)		18.2
Disposals		–			(53.4	)
Cancellations		9.7			–
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		31.0			(0.6	)
Settlements		20.8			–
31 December 2019		(204.5	)		456.1

Notes

1  The reconciliation of payments due to vendors (earnout agreements) is presented in note 20.

2  Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

The fair values of financial assets and liabilities are based on quoted market prices where available. Where the market value is not available, the Group has estimated relevant fair values on the basis of publicly available information from outside sources. There have been no movements between level 3 and other levels.

Payments due to vendors and liabilities in respect of put options

Future anticipated payments due to vendors in respect of contingent consideration (earnout agreements) are recorded at fair value, which is the present value of the expected cash outflows of the obligations. Liabilities in respect of put option agreements are initially recorded at the present value of the redemption amount in accordance with IAS 32. After recognition, the liability is remeasured in accordance with IFRS 9 and is subject to the estimation of future performance of the business acquired. Changes in the estimation result in re-measurement of the liability through the income statement. Both types of obligations are dependent on the future financial performance of the entity and it is assumed that future profits are in line with Directors’ estimates. The Directors derive their estimates from internal business plans together with financial due diligence performed in connection with the acquisition. At 31 December 2019, the weighted average growth rate in estimating future financial performance was 19.5% (2018: 22.7%), which reflects the prevalence of recent acquisitions in the faster-growing markets and new media sectors. The weighted average risk adjusted discount rate applied to these obligations at 31 December 2019 was 4.1% (2018: 3.2%).

A one percentage point increase or decrease in the growth rate in estimated future financial performance would increase or decrease the combined liabilities due to earnout agreements and put options by approximately £3.8 million (2018: £5.8 million) and £6.6 million (2018: £8.7 million), respectively. A 0.5 percentage point increase or decrease in the risk adjusted discount rate would decrease or increase the combined liabilities by approximately £3.9 million (2018: £6.3 million) and £4.0 million (2018: £6.4 million), respectively. An increase in the liability would result in a loss in the revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments, while a decrease would result in a gain.

Other investments

The fair value of other investments included in level 1 are based on quoted market prices. Other investments included in level 3 are unlisted securities, where market value is not readily available. The Group has estimated relevant fair values on the basis of publicly available information from outside sources using the most appropriate valuation technique, including all external funding rounds, revenue and EBITDA multiples, the share of fund net asset value and discounted cash flows. Certain investments are valued using revenue multiples. An increase or decrease in this multiple of one times revenue would result in an increase or decrease in the value of investments of £53.6 million, which would result in a credit or charge to the income statement of £3.3 million and equity of £50.3 million. The sensitivity to changes in unobservable inputs is specific to each individual investment.

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Authorised and issued share capital

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

Text block [abstract]

Authorised and issued share capital

28. Authorised and issued share capital

	Equity ordinary shares			Nominal value £m
Authorised
At 1 January 2017		1,750,000,000			175.0
At 31 December 2017		1,750,000,000			175.0
At 31 December 2018		1,750,000,000			175.0
At 31 December 2019		1,750,000,000			175.0
Issued and fully paid
At 1 January 2017		1,331,880,730			133.2
Exercise of share options		630,822			0.1
At 31 December 2017		1,332,511,552			133.3
Exercise of share options		166,675			-
At 31 December 2018		1,332,678,227			133.3
Exercise of share options		75,625			-
Share cancellations		(4,586,039	)		(0.5	)
At 31 December 2019		1,328,167,813			132.8

Company’s own shares

The Company’s holdings of own shares are stated at cost and represent shares held in treasury and purchases by the Employee Share Ownership Plan (‘ESOP’) trusts of shares in WPP plc for the purpose of funding certain of the Group’s share-based incentive plans.

The trustees of the ESOP purchase the Company’s ordinary shares in the open market using funds provided by the Company. The Company also has an obligation to make regular contributions to the ESOP to enable it to meet its administrative costs. The number and market value of the ordinary shares of the Company held by the ESOP at 31 December 2019 was 9,219,837 (2018: 14,820,994), and £98.3 million (2018: £125.5 million) respectively. The number and market value of ordinary shares held in treasury at 31 December 2019 was 70,787,730 (2018: 70,854,553) and £755.0 million (2018: £599.9 million) respectively.

Share options

WPP Executive Share Option Scheme (WPP)

As at 31 December 2019, unexercised options over ordinary shares of 6,741 have been granted under the WPP Executive Share Option Scheme as follows:

Number of ordinary shares under option	Exercise price per share (£)		Exercise dates
3,696		8.333		2015 - 2022
3,045		10.595		2016 - 2023

WPP Worldwide Share Ownership Programme (WWOP)

As at 31 December 2019, unexercised options over ordinary shares of 2,757,654 and unexercised options over ADRs of 388,854 have been granted under the WPP Worldwide Share Ownership Programme as follows:

Number of ordinary shares under option	Exercise price per share (£)		Exercise dates
82,650		6.268		2014 - 2021
36,500		6.268		2015 - 2021
53,150		7.113		2013 - 2020
25,750		7.113		2014 - 2020
194,079		8.458		2015 - 2022
43,000		13.145		2017 - 2021
1,739,050		13.145		2017 - 2024
4,375		13.145		2018 - 2024
564,975		13.505		2016 - 2023
14,125		13.505		2017 - 2023

Number of ADRs under option	Exercise price per ADR ($)		Exercise dates
24,550		49.230		2014 - 2021
16,530		56.560		2013 - 2020
39,184		67.490		2015 - 2022
166,655		102.670		2017 - 2024
141,935		110.760		2016 - 2023

WPP Share Option Plan 2015 (WSOP)

As at 31 December 2019, unexercised options over ordinary shares of 13,413,425 and unexercised options over ADRs of 1,396,745 have been granted under the WPP Worldwide Share Ownership Programme as follows:

Number of ordinary shares under option	Exercise price per share (£)		Exercise dates
18,250		8.372		2021 - 2025
3,406,900		8.372		2021 - 2028
15,500		9.600		2022 - 2026
2,863,975		9.600		2022 - 2029
19,250		13.085		2020 - 2024
2,785,100		13.085		2020 - 2027
55,500		15.150		2018 - 2022
1,952,200		15.150		2018 - 2025
5,375		15.150		2019 - 2025
12,375		17.055		2019 - 2023
2,279,000		17.055		2019 - 2026

Number of ADRs under option	Exercise price per ADR ($)		Exercise dates
347,660		53.140		2021 - 2028
347,105		62.590		2022 - 2029
276,790		88.260		2020 - 2027
236,265		105.490		2020 - 2026
188,925		115.940		2018 - 2025

The aggregate status of the WPP Share Option Plans during 2019 was as follows:

Movements on options granted (represented in ordinary shares)

	1 January 2019		Granted		Exercised			Lapsed			Outstanding 31 December 2019		Exercisable 31 December 2019
WPP		6,741		–		–			–			6,741		6,741
WWOP		5,520,774		–		(71,475	)		(747,375	)		4,701,924		4,701,924
WSOP		18,691,100		4,615,000		(4,150	)		(2,904,800	)		20,397,150		5,249,075
		24,218,615		4,615,000		(75,625	)		(3,652,175	)		25,105,815		9,957,740

Weighted-average exercise price for options over

	1 January 2019		Granted		Exercised		Lapsed		Outstanding 31 December 2019		Exercisable 31 December 2019
Ordinary shares (£)
WPP		9.355		–		–		–		9.355		9.355
WWOP		12.290		–		6.888		12.027		12.421		12.421
WSOP		12.753		9.600		8.372		12.405		12.121		16.164
ADRs ($)
WWOP		95.453		–		47.388		91.622		96.744		96.744
WSOP		84.893		62.590		53.140		82.290		79.798		115.940

Options over ordinary shares

Outstanding

Range of exercise prices £	Weighted average exercise price £		Weighted average contractual life Months
6.268 – 17.055		12.171		90

Options over ADRs

Outstanding

Range of exercise prices $	Weighted average exercise price $		Weighted average contractual life Months
49.230 – 115.940		83.488		89

As at 31 December 2019 there was £7.3 million (2018: £8.5 million) of total unrecognised compensation costs related to share options. That cost is expected to be recognised over a weighted average period of 19 months (2018: 20 months).

Share options are satisfied out of newly issued shares.

The weighted average fair value of options granted in the year calculated using the Black-Scholes model was as follows:

	2019		2018		2017
Fair value of UK options (shares)		117.0p		107.0p		112.0p
Fair value of US options (ADRs)		$8.49		$8.09		$9.40
Weighted average assumptions:
UK Risk-free interest rate		0.57%		0.78%		0.57%
US Risk-free interest rate		1.61%		2.74%		2.05%
Expected life (months)		48		48		48
Expected volatility		24%		24%		17%
Dividend yield		3.8%		3.5%		2.9%

Options are issued at an exercise price equal to market value on the date of grant.

The average share price of the Group for the year ended 31 December 2019 was £9.39 (2018: £11.56, 2017: £15.86) and the average ADR price for the same period was $59.93 (2018: $77.31, 2017: $101.86).

Expected volatility is sourced from external market data and represents the historic volatility in the Group’s share price over a period equivalent to the expected option life.

Expected life is based on a review of historic exercise behaviour in the context of the contractual terms of the options, as described in more detail below.

Terms of share option plans

In 2015, the Group introduced the Share Option Plan 2015 to replace both the “all-employee” Worldwide Share Ownership Plan and the discretionary Executive Stock Option Plan. Two kinds of options over ordinary shares can be granted, both with a market value exercise price. Firstly, options can be granted to employees who have worked at a company owned by WPP plc for at least two years which are not subject to performance conditions. Secondly, options may be granted on a discretionary basis subject to the satisfaction of performance conditions.

The Worldwide Share Ownership Programme was open for participation to employees with at least two years’ employment in the Group. It was not available to those participating in other share-based incentive programmes or to Executive Directors. The vesting period for each grant is three years and there are no performance conditions other than continued employment with the Group.

The Executive Stock Option Plan has historically been open for participation to WPP Group Leaders, Partners and High Potential Group. It is not currently offered to Parent Company Executive Directors. The vesting period is three years and performance conditions include achievement of various TSR (Total Shareholder Return) and EPS (Earnings Per Share) objectives, as well as continued employment. The terms of these stock options are such that if, after nine years and eight months, the performance conditions have not been met, then the stock option will vest automatically.

The Group grants stock options with a life of 10 years, including the vesting period.

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Other reserves

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

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Other reserves

29. Other reserves

Other reserves comprise the following:

	Capital redemption reserve £m		Equity reserve1 £m			Revaluation reserve £m			Translation reserve1 £m			Total other reserves £m
1 January 2017		2.7		(203.4	)		271.3			1,665.2			1,735.8
Exchange adjustments on foreign currency net investments		–		–			–			(640.1	)		(640.1	)
Gain on revaluation of available for sale investments		–		–			32.1			–			32.1
Recognition and remeasurement of financial instruments		–		(8.7	)		–			–			(8.7	)
31 December 2017		2.7		(212.1	)		303.4			1,025.1			1,119.1
Exchange adjustments on foreign currency net investments		–		–			–			275.0			275.0
Accounting policy change (IFRS 9)1		–		–			(303.4	)		(104.0	)		(407.4	)
Recognition and remeasurement of financial instruments		–		(24.3	)		–			–			(24.3	)
31 December 2018		2.7		(236.4	)		–			1,196.1			962.4
Exchange adjustments on foreign currency net investments		–		–			–			(607.1	)		(607.1	)
Exchange adjustments recycled to the income statement on disposal of discontinued operations		–		–			–			(284.0	)		(284.0	)
Share cancellations		0.5		–			–			–			0.5
Recognition and remeasurement of financial instruments		–		10.6			–			–			10.6
Share purchases – close period commitments		–		(252.3	)		–			–			(252.3	)
31 December 2019		3.2		(478.1	)		–			305.0			(169.9	)

Notes

1  Figures have been restated to be in accordance with IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, as described in the accounting policies.

2  Due to the adoption of IFRS 9, cumulative gains and losses on revaluation of available for sale investments have been transferred to retained earnings.

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Acquisitions

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

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Acquisitions

30. Acquisitions

The Group accounts for acquisitions in accordance with IFRS 3 Business Combinations. IFRS 3 requires the acquiree’s identifiable assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities (other than non-current assets or disposal groups held for sale) to be recognised at fair value at acquisition date. In assessing fair value at acquisition date, management make their best estimate of the likely outcome where the fair value of an asset or liability may be contingent on a future event. In certain instances, the underlying transaction giving rise to an estimate may not be resolved until some years after the acquisition date. IFRS 3 requires the release to profit of any acquisition reserves which subsequently become excess in the same way as any excess costs over those provided at acquisition date are charged to profit. At each period end management assess provisions and other balances established in respect of acquisitions for their continued probability of occurrence and amend the relevant value accordingly through the consolidated income statement or as an adjustment to goodwill as appropriate under IFRS 3.

Goodwill arising from acquisitions represents the value of synergies with our existing portfolio of businesses and skilled staff to deliver services to our clients.

Non-controlling interests in acquired companies are measured at the non-controlling interests’ proportionate share of the acquiree’s identifiable net assets.

The contribution to revenue and operating profit of acquisitions completed in the year was not material. There were no material acquisitions completed in the year ended 31 December 2019 or between 31 December 2019 and the date the financial statements have been authorised for issue.

Acquisitions in 2018

The Group acquired a number of subsidiaries in the year. The following table sets out the book values of the identifiable assets and liabilities acquired and their fair value to the Group. The fair value adjustments for certain acquisitions have been determined provisionally at the balance sheet date.

	Book value at acquisition £m			Fair value adjustments £m			Fair value to Group £m
Intangible assets		–			40.3			40.3
Property, plant and equipment		3.1			–			3.1
Cash		5.0			–			5.0
Trade receivables due within one year		43.7			–			43.7
Other current assets		20.3			–			20.3
Total assets		72.1			40.3			112.4
Current liabilities		(42.8	)		–			(42.8	)
Trade and other payables due after one year		(2.4	)		(13.5	)		(15.9	)
Deferred tax liabilities		–			(9.9	)		(9.9	)
Provisions		–			(0.4	)		(0.4	)
Total liabilities		(45.2	)		(23.8	)		(69.0	)
Net assets		26.9			16.5			43.4
Non-controlling interests								(6.3	)
Fair value of equity stake in associate undertakings before acquisition of controlling interest								(3.1	)
Goodwill								141.6
Consideration								175.6
Consideration satisfied by:
Cash								127.4
Payments due to vendors								48.2

Goodwill arising from acquisitions represents the value of synergies with our existing portfolio of businesses and skilled staff to deliver services to our clients. Goodwill that is expected to be deductible for tax purposes is £65.3 million.

Non-controlling interests in acquired companies are measured at the non-controlling interests’ proportionate share of the acquiree’s identifiable net assets.

The contribution to revenue and operating profit of acquisitions completed in the year was not material.

Acquisitions in 2017

The Group acquired a number of subsidiaries in the year. The following table sets out the book values of the identifiable assets and liabilities acquired and their fair value to the Group. The fair value adjustments for certain acquisitions have been determined provisionally at the balance sheet date.

	Book value at acquisition £m			Fair value adjustments £m			Fair value to Group £m
Intangible assets		0.8			79.0			79.8
Property, plant and equipment		5.5			–			5.5
Cash		28.9			–			28.9
Trade receivables due within one year		74.4			–			74.4
Other current assets		20.1			–			20.1
Total assets		129.7			79.0			208.7
Current liabilities		(76.0	)		–			(76.0	)
Trade and other payables due after one year		(10.2	)		(20.5	)		(30.7	)
Deferred tax liabilities		–			(16.8	)		(16.8	)
Provisions		(0.1	)		(4.8	)		(4.9	)
Total liabilities		(86.3	)		(42.1	)		(128.4	)
Net assets		43.4			36.9			80.3
Non-controlling interests								(13.9	)
Fair value of equity stake in associate undertakings before acquisition of controlling interest								(5.7	)
Goodwill								314.3
Consideration								375.0
Consideration satisfied by:
Cash								213.7
Payments due to vendors								161.3

Goodwill arising from acquisitions represents the value of synergies with our existing portfolio of businesses and skilled staff to deliver services to our clients. Goodwill that is expected to be deductible for tax purposes is £63.9 million.

Non-controlling interests in acquired companies are measured at the non-controlling interests’ proportionate share of the acquiree’s identifiable net assets.

The contribution to revenue and operating profit of acquisitions completed in the year was not material.

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Related party transactions

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

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Related party transactions

31. Related party transactions

From time to time the Group enters into transactions with its associate undertakings. These transactions were not material for either year presented.

The Group has continuing transactions with Kantar, including sales, purchases, the provision of IT services, subleases and property related items. None of these were material in the period since 5 December 2019 when Kantar became a related party as an associate.

The following amounts were outstanding at 31 December 2019:

	2019 £m
Amounts owed by related parties
Kantar		87.5
Other		87.5
		175.0
Amounts owed to related parties
Kantar		(36.5	)
Other		(49.6	)
		(86.1	)

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Reconciliation of operating profit to a headline operating profit

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

Text block [abstract]

Reconciliation of operating profit to a headline operating profit

32. Reconciliation of operating profit to a headline operating profit

Reconciliation of operating profit to a headline operating profit:

Continuing operations:	2019 £m			20181,2 £m			20171 £m
Operating profit		1,295.9			1,245.3			1,577.9
Amortisation and impairment of acquired intangible assets		121.5			201.8			138.0
Goodwill impairment		47.7			176.5			27.1
Gains on disposal of investments and subsidiaries		(40.4	)		(237.9	)		(98.7	)
(Gains)/losses on remeasurement of equity interests arising from a change in scope of ownership		(0.4	)		(2.0	)		0.3
Investment write-downs		7.5			2.0			91.7
Litigation settlement		(16.8	)		–			–
Gain on sale of freehold property in New York		(7.9	)		–			–
Restructuring and transformation costs		153.5			265.5			56.8
Headline operating profit		1,560.6			1,651.2			1,793.1

Notes

1  Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies.

2  Figures have been restated as described in the accounting policies.

Headline operating profit is one of the metrics that management uses to assess the performance of the business.

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Accounting policies (Policies)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

Accounting policies [Line Items]

Basis of preparation

Basis of preparation

The consolidated financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention, except for the revaluation of certain financial instruments and held for sale assets. The financial statements have been prepared using the going concern basis of accounting. The principal accounting policies are set out below.

The financial statements were originally approved by the Board of Directors and authorized for issue on 30 April 2020, and have been amended as of 12 February 2021 solely to correct the matters described below under the Restatement subheading.

Basis of consolidation

Basis of consolidation

The consolidated financial statements include the results of the Company and all its subsidiary undertakings made up to the same accounting date. All intra-Group balances, transactions, income and expenses are eliminated in full on consolidation. The results of subsidiary undertakings acquired or disposed of during the period are included or excluded from the consolidated income statement from the effective date of acquisition or disposal.

Restatement

Restatement

After the consolidated financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2019 were issued it was determined that they did not comply with certain elements of the application of IAS 32 Financial Instruments: Presentation and IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, resulting in the incorrect presentation of the Company’s notional cash pooling arrangements on the balance sheet and the inappropriate deferral of foreign exchange movements in the Company’s translation reserve due to the inappropriate application of hedge accounting in respect of non-derivative financial instruments and the inappropriate discount rate being applied in the calculation of the fair value of liabilities in respect of put option agreements and payments due to vendors (earnout agreements).

Therefore, there has been a restatement of the years ended 31 December 2019, 31 December 2018, and 31 December 2017. The impact of this change is to increase cash and short-term deposits and bank overdrafts, bonds and bank loans by £8,336.7 million for the year ended 31 December 2019 (2018: £8,422.6 million, 2017: £9,459.6 million), while having no impact on the Company’s debt less cash position. This adjustment does not impact the consolidated income statement or consolidated cash flow statement.

Net investment hedging was inappropriately applied against certain foreign exchange exposures and net investment in foreign operations, where the relationship was either an ineligible hedging relationship under IFRS or insufficiently documented, such that the criteria to apply hedge accounting under IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement were not met. Therefore, there has been a restatement of the years ended 31 December 2019, 2018 and 2017, resulting in the reclassification of gains/losses recognised in exchange adjustments on foreign currency net investments within the consolidated statement of comprehensive income to be reported in the consolidated income statement as revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments (note 6). The impact of this change is a £245.7 million gain for the year ended 31 December 2019 (2018: £205.1 million loss, 2017: £194.6 million gain) being recognised in revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments. This change also reduces the opening retained earnings balance as at 1 January 2017 by £506.9 million with a corresponding increase in the foreign currency translation reserve.

The fair value of liabilities in respect of put option agreements and payments due to vendors (earnout agreements) are recorded at the present value of the expected cash outflows of the obligation. The discount rate historically used in this calculation represented the Company’s cost of debt. To fully reflect the risk in the cash flows, the Company has changed the discount rate used in this calculation, and restated the periods ending 31 December 2019, 2018 and 2017 to reflect the change, which resulted in the following adjustments:

• Liabilities in respect of put options (notes 19 and 20) have decreased by £22.3 million at 31 December 2019 (2018: £34.0 million, 2017: £36.4 million) and a charge of £10.8 million in 2019 (2018: £8.5 million, 2017: £11.8 million) recognised in the consolidated income statement within the revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments (note 6). Other reserves on the consolidated balance sheet increased by £59.6 million at 31 December 2019 (2018: £51.5 million, 2017: £45.1 million);

• Payments due to vendors (earnout agreements) (notes 19 and 20) have decreased by £10.1 million at 31 December 2019 (2018: £13.9 million, 2017: £46.2 million) and a charge of £2.7 million in 2019 (2018: £32.1 million, 2017: £35.7 million) recognised in the consolidated income statement within the revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments (note 6). Goodwill on the consolidated balance sheet decreased by £60.1 million at 31 December 2019 (2018: £70.2 million, 2017: £78.3 million); and

• The goodwill impairment charge (note 3) decreased by £7.4 million in 2018, as a result of the above adjustments that decreased goodwill and payments due to vendors (earnout agreements) on the consolidated balance sheet.

• These changes also increases the opening retained earnings balance as at 1 January 2017 by £6.8 million.

The restatements described in this note resulted in an increase in the basic and diluted earnings per share from continuing and discontinued operations of 18.6p and 18.4p, respectively, for the year ended 31 December 2019 (2018: decrease of 19.1p and 18.9p, respectively; 2017: increase of 11.7p and 11.5p, respectively).

New IFRS accounting pronouncements

New IFRS accounting pronouncements

In the current year, the following Standards and Interpretations became effective:

• IFRS 16 Leases; and

• IFRIC 23 Uncertainty over Income Tax Treatments.

Impact of the Adoption of IFRS 16 leases

IFRS 16 is effective from 1 January 2019. The standard eliminates the classification of leases as either operating or finance leases and introduces a single accounting model. Lessees are required to recognise a right-of-use asset and related lease liability for their operating leases and show depreciation of leased assets and interest on lease liabilities separately in the income statement. IFRS 16 requires the Group to recognise substantially all of its operating leases on the balance sheet.

The Group adopted IFRS 16 effective 1 January 2019 on a modified retrospective basis and applied the standard retrospectively with the cumulative effect of initially applying the standard recognised at the date of initial application as an adjustment to retained earnings. Accordingly, prior year financial information has not been restated and will continue to be reported under IAS 17 Leases. The right-of-use asset and lease liability have initially been measured at the present value of the remaining lease payments, with the right-of-use asset being subject to certain adjustments. For certain leases the right-of-use asset was measured as if the standard had been applied from the lease commencement date and for others the right-of-use asset was set equal to the lease liability.

When applying IFRS 16, the Group has applied the following practical expedients, on transition date:

• Reliance on the previous identification of a lease (as provided by IAS 17) for all contracts that existed on the date of initial application;

• Reliance on previous assessments on whether leases are onerous instead of performing an impairment review;

• Exclusion of initial direct costs from the measurement of the right-of-use asset at the date of initial application;

• The accounting for operating leases with a remaining lease term of less than 12 months as at 1 January 2019 as short-term leases; and

• The use of hindsight, such as in determining the lease term if the contract contains options to extend or terminate the lease.

The right-of-use asset and lease liability recorded on the consolidated balance sheet as of 1 January 2019 were £1,895.1 million and £2,326.2 million, respectively. There was a reduction in other creditors of £233.5 million and property provisions of £68.7 million with regard to amounts related to property leases, including deferred rent and tenant improvement allowances, which are now recognised in the right-of-use asset. These movements resulted in a decrease to retained earnings of £128.9 million and the recognition of a deferred tax asset of £27.8 million on this movement.

For the year ended 31 December 2019, depreciation of the right-of-use asset and recognition of interest on the lease liability in the consolidated income statement replaced amounts recognised as rent expense under IAS 17. The implementation of IFRS 16 on 1 January 2019 resulted in an increase to operating profit of £61.0 million and a decrease to diluted earnings per share of 1.8p.

The following table reconciles the opening balance for the lease liabilities as at 1 January 2019 based upon the operating lease obligations as at 31 December 2018:

£ million
Operating lease commitments at 31 December 2018	3,628.2
Short-term and low value leases not included in lease liabilities	(73.8	)
Extension options reasonably certain to be exercised	115.1
Signed leases not yet commenced	(598.1	)
Gross lease liabilities at 1 January 2019	3,071.4
Effect of discounting	(745.2	)
Lease liabilities at 1 January 2019	2,326.2

The weighted average discount rate was 5.4% at 1 January 2019.

Goodwill and other intangible assets

Goodwill and other intangible assets

Intangible assets comprise goodwill, certain acquired separable corporate brand names, acquired customer relationships, acquired proprietary tools and capitalised computer software not integral to a related item of hardware.

Goodwill represents the excess of fair value attributed to investments in businesses or subsidiary undertakings over the fair value of the underlying net assets, including intangible assets, at the date of their acquisition.

Goodwill impairment reviews are undertaken annually or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate a potential impairment. The carrying value of goodwill is compared to the recoverable amount, defined as the higher of fair value less costs to sell and value in use. The net present value of future cash flows is derived from the underlying assets using a projection period of up to five years for each cash-generating unit. After the projection period, a steady growth rate representing an appropriate long-term growth rate for the industry is applied. Any impairment is recognised immediately as an expense and is not subsequently reversed.

Corporate brand names, customer relationships and proprietary tools acquired as part of acquisitions of businesses are capitalised separately from goodwill as intangible assets if their value can be measured reliably on initial recognition and it is probable that the expected future economic benefits that are attributable to the asset will flow to the Group.

Certain corporate brands of the Group are considered to have an indefinite economic life because of the institutional nature of the corporate brand names, their proven ability to maintain market leadership and profitable operations over long periods of time and the Group’s commitment to develop and enhance their value. The carrying value of these intangible assets is reviewed at least annually for impairment and adjusted to the recoverable amount if required.

Amortisation is provided at rates calculated to write off the cost less estimated residual value of each asset on a straight-line basis over its estimated useful life as follows:

• Brand names (with finite lives) – 10-20 years.

• Customer-related intangibles – 3-10 years.

• Other proprietary tools – 3-10 years.

• Other (including capitalised computer software) – 3-5 years.

Contingent consideration

Contingent consideration

Contingent consideration is accounted for in accordance with IFRS 3 Business Combinations. Contingent consideration only applies to situations where contingent payments are not dependent on future employment of vendors and any such payments are expensed when they relate to future employment.

Future anticipated payments to vendors in respect of contingent consideration (earnout agreements) are initially recorded at fair value which is the present value of the expected cash outflows of the obligations. The obligations are dependent on the future financial performance of the interests acquired (typically over a four- to five-year period following the year of acquisition) and assume the operating companies improve profits in line with Directors’ estimates. The Directors derive their estimates from internal business plans together with financial due diligence performed in connection with the acquisition.

Subsequent adjustments to the fair value are recorded in the consolidated income statement within revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments.

Property, plant and equipment

Property, plant and equipment

Property, plant and equipment are shown at cost less accumulated depreciation and any provision for impairment with the exception of freehold land which is not depreciated. The Group assesses the carrying value of its property, plant and equipment to determine if any impairment has occurred. Where this indicates that an asset may be impaired, the Group applies the requirements of IAS 36 Impairment of Assets in assessing the carrying amount of the asset. This process includes comparing its recoverable amount with its carrying value. Depreciation is provided at rates calculated to write off the cost less estimated residual value of each asset on a straight-line basis over its estimated useful life, as follows:

• Freehold buildings – 50 years.

• Leasehold land and buildings – over the term of the lease or life of the asset, if shorter.

• Fixtures, fittings and equipment – 3-10 years.

• Computer equipment – 3-5 years.

Interests in associates and joint ventures

Interests in associates and joint ventures

An associate is an entity over which the Group has significant influence. In certain circumstances, significant influence may be represented by factors other than ownership and voting rights, such as representation on the Board of Directors.

The Group’s share of the profits less losses of associate undertakings net of tax, interest and non-controlling interests is included in the consolidated income statement and the Group’s share of net assets is shown within interests in associates in the consolidated balance sheet. The Group’s share of the profits less losses and net assets is based on current information produced by the undertakings, adjusted to conform with the accounting policies of the Group.

The Group assesses the carrying value of its associate undertakings to determine if any impairment has occurred. Where this indicates that an investment may be impaired, the Group applies the requirements of IAS 36 in assessing the carrying amount of the investment. This process includes comparing its recoverable amount with its carrying value. The recoverable amount is defined as the higher of fair value less costs to sell and value in use.

The Group accounts for joint venture investments under the equity method which is consistent with the Group’s treatment of associates.

Other investments

Other investments

Certain equity investments are designated as either fair value through other comprehensive income or fair value through profit or loss. Movements in fair value through profit or loss are recorded in the consolidated income statement within revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments. The Group generally elects to classify equity investments as fair value through other comprehensive income where the Group forms a strategic partnership with the investee.

Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations

Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations

Under IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations where certain conditions are met, an asset or disposal group that is for sale should be recognised as “held for sale”. An entity should classify a disposal group as held for sale if the carrying amount will be recovered principally through a sale transaction rather than through continuing use. For this to be the case, the disposal group must be available for immediate sale in its present condition subject only to terms that are usual and customary for sales of such assets and its sale must be highly probable. Such assets are measured at the lower of carrying amount and fair value less costs to sell, and are not depreciated or amortised, excluding certain assets that are carried at fair value under IFRS 5. Furthermore, when an associate is classified as held for sale, equity accounting ceases.

A discontinued operation is a component of the entity that has been disposed of or is classified as held for sale and that represents a separate major line of business or geographical area of operations, or is a subsidiary acquired exclusively with a view to resale. The profit or loss from a discontinued operation is shown as a single amount on the face of the income statement and the comparatives and related notes restated accordingly. This represents total post-tax profit of the disposal group for the whole of the financial year including any post-tax gain or loss on the measurement of fair value less costs to sell, as well as the post-tax loss on sale of the disposal group.

Assets and liabilities classified as held for sale are shown as a separate line on the balance sheet.

Accrued and deferred income

Accrued and Deferred Income

Accrued income is a contract asset and is recognised when a performance obligation has been satisfied but has not yet been billed. Contract assets are transferred to receivables when the right to consideration is unconditional and billed per the terms of the contractual agreement.

In certain cases, payments are received from customers or amounts are billed with an unconditional right to receive consideration prior to satisfaction of performance obligations and recognised as deferred income. These balances are considered contract liabilities and are typically related to prepayments for third party expenses that are incurred shortly after billing.

Trade receivables and work in progress

Trade receivables and work in progress

Trade receivables are stated net of provisions for bad and doubtful debts.

Work in progress includes outlays incurred on behalf of clients, including production costs, and other third-party costs that have not yet been billed and are considered receivables under IFRS 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers.

Expected credit losses

The Group has applied the simplified approach to measuring expected credit losses, as permitted by IFRS 9. Therefore the Group does not track changes in credit risk, but recognises a loss allowance based on the financial asset’s lifetime expected credit loss.

Under IFRS 9 Financial Instruments, the expected credit losses are measured as the difference between the asset’s gross carrying amount and the present value of estimated future cash flows discounted at the financial asset’s original effective interest rate. Given the short-term nature of the Group’s trade receivables, work in progress and accrued income, which are mainly due from large national or multinational companies, the Group assessment of expected credit losses includes provisions for specific clients and receivables where the contractual cash flow is deemed at risk. Additional provisions are made based on the assessment of recoverability of aged receivables, where the following criteria are met:

• 100% of the asset aged over 1 year;

• 50% of the asset aged between 180 days and 1 year; and

• sufficient evidence of recoverability is not evident.

Estimated future cash flows represent expectations as at 31 December 2019 and does not consider the impact of the emergence and spread of the Covid-19 virus.

Further details on provisions for bad and doubtful debts are provided in note 18.

Foreign currency and interest rate hedging

Foreign currency and interest rate hedging

The Group’s policy on interest rate and foreign exchange rate management sets out the instruments and methods available to hedge interest and currency risk exposures and the control procedures in place to ensure effectiveness.

The Group uses derivative financial instruments to reduce exposure to foreign exchange risk and interest rate movements. The Group does not hold or issue derivative financial instruments for speculative purposes.

Derivatives are initially recognised at fair value at the date a derivative contract is entered into and are subsequently remeasured to their fair value at each balance sheet date. The resulting gain or loss is recognised in profit or loss immediately unless the derivative is designated and effective as a hedging instrument, in which event the timing of the recognition in profit or loss depends on the nature of the hedge relationship.

At the inception of the hedge relationship the entity documents the relationship between the hedging instrument and hedged item, along with its risk management objectives and its strategy for undertaking various hedge transactions. Furthermore, at the inception of the hedge and on an ongoing basis, the Group documents whether the hedging instrument that is used in a hedging relationship is highly effective in offsetting changes in fair values or cash flows of the hedged item.

Note 27 contains details of the fair values of the derivative instruments used for hedging purposes.

Changes in the fair value of derivatives that are designated and qualify as fair value hedges are recorded in profit or loss immediately, together with any changes in the fair value of the hedged item that is attributable to the hedged risk.

The effective portion of changes in the fair value of derivatives that are designated and qualify as cash flow or net investment hedges is recognised in other comprehensive income and deferred in equity. The gain or loss relating to the ineffective portion is recognised immediately in profit or loss. Amounts deferred in equity are recycled in profit or loss in the periods when the hedged item is recognised in profit or loss. However, when the forecast transaction that is hedged results in the recognition of a non-financial asset or a non-financial liability, the gains and losses previously deferred in equity are transferred from equity and included in the initial measurement of the cost of the asset or liability.

Hedge accounting is discontinued when the hedging instrument expires or is sold, terminated, or exercised, or no longer qualifies for hedge accounting. At that time, any cumulative gain or loss on the hedging instrument recognised in equity is retained in equity until the forecast transaction occurs. If a hedged transaction is no longer expected to occur, the net cumulative gain or loss recognised in equity is transferred to net profit or loss for the period.

Derivatives embedded in other financial instruments or other host contracts are treated as separate derivatives when their risks and characteristics are not closely related to those of host contracts and the host contracts are not carried at fair value with unrealised gains or losses reported in the consolidated income statement.

Liabilities in respect of option agreements

Liabilities in respect of option agreements

Option agreements that allow the Group’s equity partners to require the Group to purchase a non-controlling interest are treated as derivatives over equity instruments and are recorded in the consolidated balance sheet initially at the present value of the redemption amount in accordance with IAS 32 Financial Instruments: Presentation and subsequently measured at fair value in accordance with IFRS 9 Financial Instruments. The movement in the fair value is recognised as income or expense within revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments in the consolidated income statement.

Derecognition of financial liabilities

Derecognition of financial liabilities

In accordance with IFRS 9 Financial Instruments, a financial liability of the Group is only released to the consolidated income statement when the underlying legal obligation is extinguished.

Debt

Debt

Interest-bearing debt is recorded at the proceeds received, net of direct issue costs.

Borrowing costs

Borrowing costs

Finance costs of borrowing are recognised in the consolidated income statement over the term of those borrowings.

Revenue recognition

Revenue recognition

The Group is a leading worldwide creative transformation organisation offering national and multinational clients a comprehensive range of communications, experience, commerce and technology services. Contracts often involve multiple agencies offering different services in different countries. As such, the terms of local, regional and global contracts can vary to meet client needs and regulatory requirements. Consistent with the industry, contracts are typically short-term in nature and tend to be cancellable by either party with 90 days notice. The Group is generally entitled to payment for work performed to date.

The Group is generally paid in arrears for its services. Invoices are typically payable within 30 to 60 days. Revenue comprises commissions and fees earned in respect of amounts billed and is stated exclusive of VAT, sales taxes and trade discounts. Pass-through costs comprise fees paid to external suppliers when they are engaged to perform part or all of a specific project and are charged directly to clients, predominantly media and data collection costs. Costs to obtain a contract are typically expensed as incurred as the contracts are generally short-term in nature.

In most instances, promised services in a contract are not considered distinct or represent a series of services that are substantially the same with the same pattern of transfer to the customer and, as such, are accounted for as a single performance obligation. However, where there are contracts with services that are capable of being distinct, are distinct within the context of the contract, and are accounted for as separate performance obligations, revenue is allocated to each of the performance obligations based on relative standalone selling prices.

Revenue is recognised when a performance obligation is satisfied, in accordance with the terms of the contractual arrangement. Typically, performance obligations are satisfied over time as services are rendered. Revenue recognised over time is based on the proportion of the level of service performed. Either an input method or an output method, depending on the particular arrangement, is used to measure progress for each performance obligation. For most fee arrangements, costs incurred are used as an objective input measure of performance. The primary input of substantially all work performed under these arrangements is labour. There is normally a direct relationship between costs incurred and the proportion of the contract performed to date. In other circumstances relevant output measures, such as the achievement of any project milestones stipulated in the contract, are used to assess proportional performance.

For our retainer arrangements, we have a stand ready obligation to perform services on an ongoing basis over the life of the contract. The scope of these arrangements are broad and generally are not reconcilable to another input or output criteria. In these instances, revenue is recognised using a time-based method resulting in straight-line revenue recognition.

The amount of revenue recognised depends on whether we act as an agent or as a principal. Certain arrangements with our clients are such that our responsibility is to arrange for a third party to provide a specified good or service to the client. In these cases we are acting as an agent as we do not control the relevant good or service before it is transferred to the client. When we act as an agent, the revenue recorded is the net amount retained. Costs incurred with external suppliers (such as production costs and media suppliers) are excluded from revenue and recorded as work in progress until billed.

The Group acts as principal when we control the specified good or service prior to transfer. When the Group acts as a principal (such as when supplying in-house production services, events, and branding), the revenue recorded is the gross amount billed. Billings related to out-of-pocket costs such as travel are also recognised at the gross amount billed with a corresponding amount recorded as an expense.

Further details on revenue recognition are detailed by sector below:

Global Integrated Agencies

Revenue is typically derived from integrated product offerings including media placements and creative services. Revenue may consist of various arrangements involving commissions, fees, incentive-based revenue or a combination of the three, as agreed upon with each client. Revenue for commissions on purchased media is typically recognised at the point in time the media is run.

The Group receives volume rebates from certain suppliers for transactions entered into on behalf of clients that, based on the terms of the relevant contracts and local law, are either remitted to clients or retained by the Group. If amounts are passed on to clients they are recorded as liabilities until settled or, if retained by the Group, are recorded as revenue when earned.

Variable incentive-based revenue typically comprises both quantitative and qualitative elements. Incentive compensation is estimated using the most likely amount and is included in revenue up to the amount that is highly probable not to result in a significant reversal of cumulative revenue recognised. The Group recognises incentive revenue as the related performance obligation is satisfied.

Public Relations and Specialist Agencies

Revenue for these services is typically derived from retainer fees and fees for services to be performed subject to specific agreement. Most revenue under these arrangements is earned over time, in accordance with the terms of the contractual arrangement.

Discontinued operations (Data Investment Management)

Revenue for market research services is typically recognised over time based on input measures. For certain performance obligations, output measures such as the percentage of interviews completed, percentage of reports delivered to a client and the achievement of any project milestones stipulated in the contract are used to measure progress.

While most of the studies provided in connection with the Group’s market research contracts are undertaken in response to an individual client’s or group of clients’ specifications, in certain instances a study may be developed as an off-the-shelf product offering sold to a broad client base. For these transactions, revenue is recognised when the product is delivered. When the terms of the transaction provide for licensing the right to access a product on a subscription basis, revenue is recognised over the subscription period, typically on a straight-line basis.

Taxation

Taxation

Corporate taxes are payable on taxable profits at current rates. The tax expense represents the sum of the tax currently payable and deferred tax.

The Group is subject to corporate taxes in a number of different jurisdictions and judgement is required in determining the appropriate provision for transactions where the ultimate tax determination is uncertain. In such circumstances, the Group recognises liabilities for anticipated taxes based on the best information available and where the anticipated liability is both probable and estimable, liabilities are classified as current. Any interest and penalties accrued are included in corporate income taxes both in the consolidated income statement and balance sheet. Where the final outcome of such matters differs from the amount recorded, any differences may impact the income tax and deferred tax provisions in the period in which the final determination is made.

The tax laws that apply to the Group’s subsidiaries may be amended by the relevant tax authorities. Such potential amendments are regularly monitored and adjustments are made to the Group’s tax liabilities and deferred tax assets and liabilities where necessary.

The tax currently payable is based on taxable profit for the year. Taxable profit differs from net profit as reported in the consolidated income statement because it excludes items of income or expense that are taxable or deductible in other years and it further excludes items that are never taxable or deductible. The Group’s liability for current tax is calculated using tax rates that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the balance sheet date.

Deferred tax is the tax expected to be payable or recoverable on differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities in the financial statements and the corresponding tax bases used in the computation of taxable profit, and is accounted for using the balance sheet liability method. Deferred tax liabilities are recognised for all taxable temporary differences unless specifically excepted by IAS 12 Income Taxes. Deferred tax is charged or credited in the consolidated income statement, except when it relates to items charged or credited to other comprehensive income or directly to equity, in which case the deferred tax is also dealt with in other comprehensive income or equity. Deferred tax assets are recognised to the extent that it is probable that taxable profits will be available against which deductible temporary differences can be utilised, which can require the use of accounting estimation and the exercise of judgement. Such assets and liabilities are not recognised if the temporary difference arises from the initial recognition of goodwill or other assets and liabilities (other than in a business combination) in a transaction that affects neither the taxable profit nor the accounting profit.

The carrying amount of deferred tax assets is reviewed at each balance sheet date and reduced to the extent that it is no longer probable that sufficient taxable profits will be available to allow all or part of the asset to be recovered.

Deferred tax liabilities are recognised for taxable temporary differences arising on investments in subsidiaries and associates, and interests in joint ventures, except where the Group is able to control the reversal of the temporary difference and it is probable that the temporary difference will not reverse in the foreseeable future.

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are offset when there is a legally enforceable right to set off current tax assets against current tax liabilities and when they relate to income taxes levied by the same taxation authority and the Group intends to settle its current tax assets and liabilities on a net basis.

Deferred tax is calculated at the tax rates that are expected to apply in the period when the liability is settled or the asset is realised based on enacted or substantively enacted legislation.

Retirement benefit costs

Retirement benefit costs

The Group accounts for retirement benefit costs in accordance with IAS 19 Employee Benefits.

For defined contribution plans, contributions are charged to the consolidated income statement as payable in respect of the accounting period.

For defined benefit plans the amounts charged to operating profit are the current service costs, past service costs, administrative expenses and gains and losses on settlements and curtailments. They are included as part of staff costs. Past service costs are recognised immediately in the consolidated income statement when the related plan amendment occurs. Net interest expense is calculated by applying the discount rate to the recognised overall surplus or deficit in the plan.

Actuarial gains and losses are recognised immediately in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income.

Where defined benefit plans are funded, the assets of the plan are held separately from those of the Group, in separate independently managed funds. Pension plan assets are measured at fair value and liabilities are measured on an actuarial basis using the projected unit method and discounted at a rate equivalent to the current rate of return on a high-quality corporate bond of equivalent currency and term to the plan liabilities. The actuarial valuations are obtained at least triennially and are updated at each balance sheet date.

Recognition of a surplus in a defined benefit plan is limited based on the economic gain the Company is expected to benefit from in the future by means of a refund or reduction in future contributions to the plan, in accordance with IAS 19.

Provisions for liabilities and charges

Provisions for liabilities and charges

Provisions comprise liabilities where there is uncertainty about the timing of settlement, but where a reliable estimate can be made of the amount. These include provisions for other property-related liabilities. Also included are other provisions, such as certain long-term employee benefits and legal claims, where the likelihood of settlement is considered probable.

Leases

Leases

The Group has adopted IFRS 16 Leases from 1 January 2019. The Group leases most of its offices in cities where it operates. Other lease contracts include office equipment and motor vehicles.

At inception of a contract, the Group assesses whether a contract is, or contains, a lease based on whether the contract conveys the right to control the use of an identified asset for a period of time in exchange for consideration.

The Group recognises a right-of-use asset and a lease liability at the lease commencement date. The right-of-use asset is initially measured based on the initial amount of the lease liability adjusted for any lease payments made at or before the commencement date, plus any initial direct costs incurred, less any lease incentives received. The assets are depreciated over the term of the lease using the straight-line method. The lease term includes periods covered by an option to extend if the Group is reasonably certain to exercise that option. Right-of-use assets are reviewed for indicators of impairment.

The lease liability is initially measured at the present value of the lease payments that are not paid at the commencement date, discounted using the interest rate implicit in the lease or, if that rate cannot be readily determined, the Group’s incremental borrowing rate for the same term as the underlying lease. Lease payments included in the measurement of lease liabilities comprise fixed payments less any lease incentives receivable and variable lease payments that depend on an index or a rate as at the commencement date. Lease modifications result in remeasurement of the lease liability.

Depreciation is recognised in both costs of services and general and administrative costs and interest expense is recognised under finance costs in the consolidated income statement.

The Group has elected to use the exemption not to recognise right-of-use assets and lease liabilities for short-term leases that have a lease term of 12 months or less and leases of low-value assets (under $5,000). The payments associated with these leases are recognised as cost of services and general and administrative costs on a straight-line basis over the lease term.

In 2018 and 2017 leases were accounted for per IAS 17 Leases. The following policies were applicable:

Finance Leases

Assets held under finance leases are recognised as assets of the Group at the inception of the lease at the lower of their fair value and the present value of the minimum lease payments. Depreciation on leased assets is charged to the consolidated income statement on the same basis as owned assets. Leasing payments are treated as consisting of capital and interest elements and the interest is charged to the consolidated income statement as it is incurred.

Operating Leases

Operating lease rentals are charged to the consolidated income statement on a straight-line basis over the lease term. Any premium or discount on the acquisition of a lease is spread over the life of the lease on a straight-line basis.

Translation of foreign currencies

Translation of foreign currencies

Foreign currency transactions arising from normal trading activities are recorded at the rates in effect at the date of the transaction. Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies at the year-end are translated at the year-end exchange rate. Foreign currency gains and losses are credited or charged to the consolidated income statement as they arise.

The income statements of foreign subsidiary undertakings are translated into pounds sterling at average exchange rates and the year-end net assets of these companies are translated at year-end exchange rates.

Exchange differences arising from retranslation of the opening net assets and on foreign currency borrowings (to the extent that they hedge the Group’s investment in such operations) are reported in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income.

Goodwill and fair value adjustments arising on the acquisition of a foreign entity are treated as assets and liabilities of the foreign entity and translated at the closing rate.

Hyperinflation in Argentina

Hyperinflation in Argentina

During 2019 and 2018, Argentina was designated as a hyperinflationary economy and the financial statements of the Group’s subsidiaries in Argentina have been adjusted for the effects of inflation in accordance with IAS 29 Financial Reporting in Hyperinflationary Economies.

IAS 29 requires that the income statement is adjusted for inflation in the period and translated at the year-end foreign exchange rate and that non-monetary assets and liabilities on the balance sheet are restated to reflect the change in purchasing power caused by inflation from the date of initial recognition. In 2019, this resulted in an increase in goodwill of £41.0 million (2018: £105.8 million) and an increase in other intangibles of £7.1 million (2018: £19.5 million). The impact on other non-monetary assets and liabilities and the impact on the Group’s income statement in the year were immaterial.

Share-based payments

Share-based payments

The Group issues equity-settled share-based payments (including share options) to certain employees and accounts for these awards in accordance with IFRS 2 Share-Based Payment. Equity-settled share-based payments are measured at fair value (excluding the effect of non-market-based vesting conditions) at the date of grant. Details regarding the fair value of equity settled share-based transactions are set out in notes 23 and 28.

The fair value determined at the grant date is recognised in the consolidated income statement as an expense on a straight-line basis over the relevant vesting period, based on the Group’s estimate of the number of shares that will ultimately vest and adjusted for the effect of non-market-based vesting conditions.

Critical judgements and estimation uncertainty in applying accounting policies

Critical judgements and estimation uncertainty in applying accounting policies

Management is required to make key decisions and judgements whilst acknowledging there is estimation uncertainty in the process of applying the Group’s accounting policies. These estimates and judgements are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Where judgement has been applied or estimation uncertainty exists, the key factors taken into consideration are disclosed in the accounting policies and the appropriate note in these financial statements.

The most significant areas of estimation uncertainty include:

• Goodwill: The discounted cash flow methodology employed by the Group when testing for goodwill impairment requires estimates regarding revenue growth, operating margins, discount rates and working capital requirements. Further details of the methodology, discount rates, long-term growth rates and estimates used in relation to the goodwill impairment are set out in note 14.

• Payments due to vendors (earnout agreements) and liabilities in respect of put options: Estimates are required regarding growth rates in deriving future financial performance and discount rates to be applied when measuring the liabilities for earnouts and put options. Further details on growth rates and discount rates and the sensitivity to these estimates are set out in note 27.

• Provision for post-employment benefits: Estimates are required in the accounting for defined benefit pension plans, including establishing discount rates, rates of increase in salaries and pensions in payment, inflation and mortality assumptions. These estimates are made by management based on the advice of qualified advisors. Details of the assumptions used and the sensitivity of the benefit obligation to these assumptions are set out in note 24.

• Deferred consideration on the Kantar disposal: as per the terms of the Kantar disposal, deferred consideration consisted of amounts expected to be received in future periods on satisfaction of certain conditions and the deferral of consideration against services to be provided to Kantar in the future, as detailed in note 12. Estimates are required in determining amounts to be received and the value of services to be provided, taking into account uncertainty in the ultimate timing and resolution of each of these. The sensitivity to these estimates is specific to each individual circumstance and no individual estimate is expected to result in a material change to the amount.

• Taxation: Estimates are required in determining whether a provision is required and, the amount of taxes that will be due, particularly given the many countries in which the Group operates. Where the final tax outcome is different from the amounts recorded then such differences may expose the Group to additional tax liabilities or impact the carrying value of deferred tax assets, which would affect the future tax charge. Further details on the tax charge, corporate income tax payable and deferred tax balances are set out in the income statement, balance sheet and notes 7 and 17.

The most significant areas of judgements include:

• Revenue recognition: Judgement is required regarding the timing of recognition, particularly in relation to media volume income with regards to whether it is required to be passed back to the client and in assessing progress on performance obligations where revenue is recognised over time. Further details are set out in the accounting policy.

• Non-current assets held for sale and discontinued operations: Judgement is required in determining the timing of classification of the Group’s Kantar business as held for sale, particularly with the timing of the held for sale classification. Further details are set out in note 12.

IFRICI23 Uncertainty Over Income Tax Treatments [Member]

Accounting policies [Line Items]

Impact of the Adoption

Impact of the Adoption of IFRIC 23 Uncertainty over Income Tax Treatments

IFRIC 23 clarifies the accounting for uncertainties in income tax and is effective from 1 January 2019. There has been no impact to our financial statements as a result of the adoption of IFRIC 23.

At the date of authorisation of these financial statements, the following amendments to standards, which have not been applied in these financial statements, were in issue but not yet effective:

— Impact of Interest Rate Benchmark Reform, (Amendments to IFRS 9, IAS 39 and IFRS 7)

Impact of Interest Rate Benchmark Reform

The amendments issued by the IASB, Interest Rate Benchmark Reform (Amendments to IFRS 9, IAS 39 and IFRS 7), are mandatory and are effective from 1 January 2020. They provide relief on specific aspects of pre-replacement issues that impact hedge accounting, whereby entities applying hedge accounting requirements will be able to assume that the interest rate benchmark on which the hedged cash flows and cash flows of the hedging instrument are based are not altered as a result of Interest Rate Benchmark Reform. The Group does not consider that these amendments will have a significant impact on the financial statements as they provide relief for the possible effects of the uncertainty arising from interest rate benchmark reform.

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Accounting policies (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

Text block [abstract]

Schedule of Reconciliation about operating lease obligations

The following table reconciles the opening balance for the lease liabilities as at 1 January 2019 based upon the operating lease obligations as at 31 December 2018:

£ million
Operating lease commitments at 31 December 2018	3,628.2
Short-term and low value leases not included in lease liabilities	(73.8	)
Extension options reasonably certain to be exercised	115.1
Signed leases not yet commenced	(598.1	)
Gross lease liabilities at 1 January 2019	3,071.4
Effect of discounting	(745.2	)
Lease liabilities at 1 January 2019	2,326.2

Summary of Estimated Useful Life of Intangible Assets

Amortisation is provided at rates calculated to write off the cost less estimated residual value of each asset on a straight-line basis over its estimated useful life as follows:

• Brand names (with finite lives) – 10-20 years.

• Customer-related intangibles – 3-10 years.

• Other proprietary tools – 3-10 years.

• Other (including capitalised computer software) – 3-5 years.

Summary of Estimated Useful Life of Property, Plant and Equipment

Depreciation is provided at rates calculated to write off the cost less estimated residual value of each asset on a straight-line basis over its estimated useful life, as follows:

• Freehold buildings – 50 years.

• Leasehold land and buildings – over the term of the lease or life of the asset, if shorter.

• Fixtures, fittings and equipment – 3-10 years.

• Computer equipment – 3-5 years.

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Segment information (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

Text block [abstract]

Contributions by Reportable Segments

Reportable segments

Reported contributions were as follows:

Continuing operations – Income statement	Revenue1		Revenue less pass-through costs2		Headline operating profit3		Headline operating profit margin4
	£m		£m		£m
2019
Global Integrated Agencies5		10,205.2		8,108.1		1,219.5		15.0%
Public Relations6		956.5		898.0		140.6		15.7%
Specialist Agencies7		2,072.4		1,840.4		200.5		10.9%
		13,234.1				1,560.6
20188
Global Integrated Agencies5		9,930.7		8,070.8		1,228.2		15.2%
Public Relations6		931.7		879.9		139.2		15.8%
Specialist Agencies7		2,184.3		1,925.0		283.8		14.7%
		13,046.7				1,651.2
20178
Global Integrated Agencies5		10,028.6		8,315.5		1,321.3		15.9%
Public Relations6		915.0		864.3		123.5		14.3%
Specialist Agencies7		2,202.8		1,964.3		348.3		17.7%
		13,146.4				1,793.1

Notes

1  Intersegment sales have not been separately disclosed as they are not material.

2  Revenue less pass-through costs is revenue less media, data collection and other pass-through costs. Pass-through costs comprise fees paid to external suppliers where they are engaged to perform part or all of a specific project and are changed directly to clients, predominantly media and data collection costs. See note 3 to the consolidated financial statements for more details of the pass-through costs.

3  A reconciliation from operating profit to headline operating profit is provided in note 32.

4  Headline operating profit margin is calculated as headline operating profit (defined above) as a percentage of revenue less pass-through costs.

5  Global Integrated Agencies includes all of Grey, GroupM, Hogarth, Ogilvy, VMLY&R and Wunderman Thompson.

6  Public Relations represents the Group’s specialists in this area and remains as previously reported but excludes Ogilvy PR which now sits within Global Integrated Agencies as part of Ogilvy.

7  Specialist Agencies represent the Group’s other agencies that specialise in certain areas, whether by region or range of services.

8  Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies. As a result Data Investment Management is now excluded from the segment analysis.

Continuing operations – Other information	Share-based payments		Capital additions1		Depreciation and amortisation2		Goodwill impairment3		Share of results of associates			Interests in associates and joint ventures
	£m		£m		£m		£m		£m			£m
2019
Global Integrated Agencies		54.3		265.6		392.8		4.8		17.0			164.2
Public Relations		4.6		17.5		31.5		–		(0.3	)		5.5
Specialist Agencies4		7.1		46.7		84.0		42.9		(2.0	)		643.3
		66.0		329.8		508.3		47.7		14.7			813.0
20185
Global Integrated Agencies		59.5		255.6		159.1		142.8		25.4			175.1
Public Relations		7.1		12.5		10.8		–		1.3			6.2
Specialist Agencies4		11.7		45.9		39.4		33.7		3.8			615.5
		78.3		314.0		209.3		176.5		30.5			796.8
20175
Global Integrated Agencies		77.8		214.3		157.1		–		16.2			179.9
Public Relations		7.2		9.5		9.8		7.5		0.9			5.6
Specialist Agencies4		13.3		47.2		42.2		19.6		80.9			879.7
		98.3		271.0		209.1		27.1		98.0			1,065.2

Notes

1  Capital additions include purchases of property, plant and equipment and other intangible assets (including capitalised computer software).

2  Depreciation of property, plant and equipment, depreciation of right-of-use assets and amortisation of other intangible assets.

3  Goodwill impairment figures in 2018 have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

4  Specialist Agencies includes the Kantar associate and amounts previously reported under the Data Investment Management segment.

5  Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies.

 

Contributions by Geographical Area

Contributions by geographical area were as follows:  

Continuing operations	2019 £m		20181 £m		20171 £m
Revenue2
North America3		4,854.7		4,851.7		5,083.5
United Kingdom		1,797.1		1,785.6		1,737.4
Western Continental Europe		2,628.8		2,589.6		2,455.7
Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe		3,953.5		3,819.8		3,869.8
		13,234.1		13,046.7		13,146.4
Revenue less pass-through costs4
North America3		4,034.3		4,059.7		4,335.2
United Kingdom		1,390.1		1,393.8		1,390.0
Western Continental Europe		2,176.4		2,182.9		2,063.7
Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe		3,245.7		3,239.3		3,355.0
Headline operating profit5
North America3		662.0		710.6		816.3
United Kingdom		188.5		179.6		218.1
Western Continental Europe		261.5		289.4		249.8
Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe		448.6		471.6		508.9
		1,560.6		1,651.2		1,793.1
Headline operating profit margin6	Margin		Margin1		Margin1
North America		16.4%		17.5%		18.8%
United Kingdom		13.6%		12.9%		15.7%
Western Continental Europe		12.0%		13.3%		12.1%
Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe		13.8%		14.6%		15.2%

Notes

1  Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies.

2  Intersegment sales have not been separately disclosed as they are not material.

3  North America includes the US with revenue of £4,576.5 million (2018: £4,576.1 million, 2017: £4,782.0 million), revenue less pass-through costs of £3,806.3 million (2018: £3,836.0 million, 2017: £4,089.9 million) and headline operating profit of £620.6 million (2018: £674.4 million, 2017: £773.5 million).

4  Revenue less pass-through costs is revenue less media, data collection and other pass-through costs. Pass-through costs comprise fees paid to external suppliers where they are engaged to perform part or all of a specific project and are changed directly to clients, predominantly media and data collection costs. See note 3 to the consolidated financial statements for more details of the pass-through costs.

5  A reconciliation from operating profit to headline operating profit is provided in note 32.

6  Headline operating profit margin is calculated as headline operating profit (defined above) as a percentage of revenue less pass-through costs.

Continuing operations	2019 £m		2018 £m
Non-current assets1
North America2		6,812.6		7,247.0
United Kingdom		1,743.3		2,067.9
Western Continental Europe		3,417.2		4,371.9
Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe		3,665.7		4,005.9
		15,638.8		17,692.7

Notes

1  Non-current assets excluding financial instruments and deferred tax.

2  North America includes the United States with non-current assets of £6,354.7 million (2018: £6,770.6 million).

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Costs of services and general and administrative costs (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

Text block [abstract]

Costs of Services and General Administrative Costs

Continuing operations	2019 £m			20181 £m			20171 £m
Costs of services		10,825.1			10,559.1			10,481.6
General and administrative costs		1,113.1			1,242.3			1,086.9
		11,938.2			11,801.4			11,568.5
Costs of services and general and administrative costs include:
Continuing operations	2019 £m			20181 £m			20171 £m
Staff costs (note 5)		7,090.6			6,950.6			7,065.1
Establishment costs		672.9			756.6			769.5
Media pass-through costs		1,656.2			1,458.0			1,429.4
Other costs of services and general and administrative costs2		2,518.5			2,636.2			2,304.5
		11,938.2			11,801.4			11,568.5
Other costs of services and general and administrative costs include:
Continuing operations	2019 £m			20181 £m			20171 £m
Goodwill impairment (note 14)3		47.7			176.5			27.1
Investment write-downs		7.5			2.0			91.7
Restructuring and transformation costs		153.5			265.5			56.8
Litigation settlement		(16.8	)		–			–
Gain on sale of freehold property in New York		(7.9	)		–			–
Amortisation and impairment of acquired intangible assets		121.5			201.8			138.0
Amortisation of other intangible assets		21.2			20.7			20.1
Depreciation of property, plant and equipment		185.5			188.6			189.0
Depreciation of right-of-use assets		301.6			–			–
Losses on sale of property, plant and equipment		3.2			0.6			1.2
Gains on disposal of investments and subsidiaries		(40.4	)		(237.9	)		(98.7	)
(Gains)/losses on remeasurement of equity interests arising from a change in scope of ownership		(0.4	)		(2.0	)		0.3
Net foreign exchange losses/(gains)		6.1			(13.0	)		8.0
Short-term lease expense		83.8			–			–
Low-value lease expense		2.9			–			–

Notes

1  Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies.

2  Other costs of services and general and administrative costs include £731.4 million (2018: £713.0 million, 2017: £573.1 million) of other pass-through costs.

3  Figures in 2018 have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

Auditors' Remuneration

Auditors’ remuneration:

	2019 £m		2018 £m			2017 £m
Fees payable to the Company’s auditors for the audit of the Company’s annual accounts		1.5		1.4			1.4
The audit of the Company’s subsidiaries pursuant to legislation		28.0		25.2	1		20.7
Other services pursuant to legislation		5.0		4.2			4.0
Fees payable to the auditors pursuant to legislation		34.5		30.8			26.1
Tax advisory services		–		–			0.1
Tax compliance services		–		0.1			0.1
Other services1		8.2		4.7			4.6
Total non-audit fees		8.2		4.8			4.8
Total fees		42.7		35.6			30.9

Note

1  Includes a true-up of £3.5 million.

2  Other services include audits for earnout purposes.

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Share of results of associates (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

Text block [abstract]

Summary of Share of Results of Associates

Share of results of associates include:

Continuing operations	20191 £m			20182 £m			20172 £m
Share of profit before interest and taxation		99.2			110.8			129.7
Share of exceptional (losses)/gains		(47.8	)		(41.5	)		0.6
Share of interest and non-controlling interests		(19.4	)		(15.1	)		(12.6	)
Share of taxation		(17.3	)		(23.7	)		(19.7	)
		14.7			30.5			98.0

Notes

1  From 5 December 2019 approximately 90% of the Kantar business is treated as a 40% associate following the completion of the transaction outlined in note 12.

2  Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies.

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Our people (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

Text block [abstract]

Geographical Distribution of Staff

Our staff numbers, including the Kantar disposal group, averaged 132,823 for the year ended 31 December 2019 against 133,903 in 2018 and 134,428 in 2017. Their geographical distribution was as follows:

	2019		2018		2017
North America		25,008		25,990		27,399
United Kingdom		14,192		14,331		14,197
Western Continental Europe		26,973		26,825		25,700
Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe		66,650		66,757		67,132
		132,823		133,903		134,428

Reportable Segment Distribution of Staff

Their reportable segment distribution was as follows:

	2019		2018		2017
Global Integrated Agencies		82,295		83,015		81,537
Data Investment Management		26,325		27,813		28,014
Public Relations		6,890		6,891		6,899
Specialist Agencies		17,313		16,184		17,978
		132,823		133,903		134,428

Staff costs

At the end of 2019, staff numbers were 106,786 (2018: 134,281, 2017: 134,413).

Staff costs include:

Continuing operations	2019 £m		20181 £m		20171 £m
Wages and salaries		4,946.2		4,828.0		4,937.5
Cash-based incentive plans		227.6		233.0		196.5
Share-based incentive plans		66.0		78.3		98.3
Social security costs		591.7		579.0		580.8
Pension costs		169.7		160.9		161.3
Severance		42.6		30.0		36.8
Other staff costs2		1,046.8		1,041.4		1,053.9
		7,090.6		6,950.6		7,065.1

Notes

1  Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies.

2  Freelance and temporary staff costs are included in other staff costs.

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Finance and investment income, finance costs and revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

Text block [abstract]

Summary of Finance and Investment Income, Finance Costs and Revaluation and retranslation of Financial Instruments

Finance and investment income includes:

Continuing operations	2019 £m		20181 £m		20171 £m
Income from equity investments		18.3		15.2		16.7
Interest income		80.7		83.7		72.3
		99.0		98.9		89.0

Finance costs include:

Continuing operations	2019 £m		20181 £m		20171 £m
Net interest expense on pension plans		3.5		3.6		5.4
Interest on other long-term employee benefits		3.9		3.5		3.3
Interest expense and similar charges2		252.0		272.0		253.2
Interest expense related to lease liabilities		99.7		–		–
		359.1		279.1		261.9

Revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments include:

Continuing operations	20193 £m			20181,3 £m			20171,3 £m
Movements in fair value of treasury instruments		0.4			(11.0	)		0.4
Premium on the early repayment of bonds		(63.4	)		–			–
Revaluation of investments held at fair value through profit or loss		9.1			67.8			–
Revaluation of put options over non-controlling interests		(24.3)			25.9			39.5
Revaluation of payments due to vendors (earnout agreements)		(3.7)			46.1			156.5
Retranslation of financial instruments		245.7			(205.1	)		194.6
		163.8			(76.3	)		391.0

Notes

1  Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies.

2  Interest expense and similar charges are payable on bank overdrafts, bonds and bank loans held at amortised cost.

3  Figures have been restated to be in accordance with IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, as described in the accounting policies.

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Taxation (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

Text block [abstract]

Tax Charge

The tax charge comprises:

Continuing operations	2019 £m			20181 £m			20171 £m
Corporation tax
Current year		423.0			404.2			383.0
Prior years		(63.4	)		(108.1	)		(97.2	)
		359.6			296.1			285.8
Deferred tax
Current year		(78.3	)		(41.5	)		(207.4	)
Prior years		(6.3	)		1.4			4.6
		(84.6	)		(40.1	)		(202.8	)
Tax charge		275.0			256.0			83.0

Tax Charge Reconciled to Profit Before Taxation

The tax charge for the year can be reconciled to profit before taxation in the consolidated income statement as follows:

Continuing operations	20192 £m			20181,2 £m			20171,2 £m
Profit before taxation		1,214.3			1,019.3			1,894.0
Tax at the corporation tax rate of 19.0%3		230.7			193.7			364.6
Tax effect of share of results of associates		(2.7	)		(5.8	)		(18.8	)
Irrecoverable withholding taxes		44.7			48.9			31.6
Items that are not deductible/(taxable) in determining taxable profit		51.9			67.2			(39.0	)
Effect of different tax rates in subsidiaries operating in other jurisdictions		77.1			71.2			95.2
US Transition Tax related to unremitted foreign earnings		–			(4.6	)		20.1
Effect of change in US tax rate on deferred tax balances		–			–			(211.6	)
Origination and reversal on unrecognised temporary differences		(3.4	)		5.1			(18.9	)
Tax losses not recognised or utilised in the year		13.2			19.9			32.5
Utilisation of tax losses not previously recognised		(42.7	)		(25.5	)		(10.4	)
Recognition of temporary differences not previously recognised		(24.1	)		(7.4	)		(69.7	)
Release of prior year provisions in relation to acquired businesses		(19.9	)		(20.4	)		(15.0	)
Other prior year adjustments		(49.8	)		(86.3	)		(77.6	)
Tax charge		275.0			256.0			83.0
Effective tax rate on profit before tax		22.6%			25.1%			4.4%

Notes

1  Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-Current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies.

2  Profit before taxation has been restated to be in accordance with IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, as described in the accounting policies.

3  As the Group is subject to the tax rates of more than one country, it has chosen to present its reconciliation of the tax charge using the UK corporation tax rate of 19.0% (2018: 19.0%, 2017: 19.25%).

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Ordinary dividends (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

Text block [abstract]

Summary of Ordinary Dividends

Amounts recognised as distributions to equity holders in the year:

	2019		2018		2017		2019		2018		2017
Per share	Pence per share						£m		£m		£m
2018 Final dividend		37.30p		37.30p		37.05p		466.4		464.6		467.2
2019 Interim dividend		22.70p		22.70p		22.70p		284.1		282.8		284.3
		60.00p		60.00p		59.75p		750.5		747.4		751.5

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Earnings per share (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

Text block [abstract]

Calculation of Basic and Diluted EPS

Basic EPS

The calculation of basic EPS is as follows:

Continuing operations	20191			20181		20171
Earnings2 (£ million)		860.1			698.2		1,726.6
Weighted average shares used in basic EPS calculation (million)		1,250.0			1,247.8		1,261.1
EPS		68.8p			56.0p		136.9p
Discontinued operations	2019			2018		2017
Earnings2 (£ million)		(3.8	)		126.4		237.1
Weighted average shares used in basic EPS calculation (million)		1,250.0			1,247.8		1,261.1
EPS		(0.3p	)		10.1p		18.8p
Continued and discontinued operations	20191			20181		20171
Earnings2 (£ million)		856.3			824.6		1,963.7
Weighted average shares used in basic EPS calculation (million)		1,250.0			1,247.8		1,261.1
EPS		68.5p			66.1p		155.7p

Notes

1  Earnings figures have been restated as described in the accounting policies.

2  Earnings is equivalent to profit for the year attributable to equity holders of the parent.

Diluted EPS

The calculation of diluted reported and diluted EPS is as follows:

Continuing operations	20191			20181		20171
Diluted earnings (£ million)		860.1			698.2		1,726.6
Weighted average shares used in diluted EPS calculation (million)		1,260.6			1,261.2		1,275.8
Diluted EPS		68.2p			55.4p		135.3p
Discontinued operations	2019			2018		2017
Diluted earnings (£ million)		(3.8	)		126.4		237.1
Weighted average shares used in diluted EPS calculation (million)		1,260.6			1,261.2		1,275.8
Diluted EPS		(0.3p	)		10.0p		18.6p
Continued and discontinued operations	20191			20181		20171
Diluted earnings (£ million)		856.3			824.6		1,963.7
Weighted average shares used in diluted EPS calculation (million)		1,260.6			1,261.2		1,275.8
Diluted EPS		67.9p			65.4p		153.9p

Note

1  Earnings figures have been restated as described in the accounting policies.

Reconciliation Between Shares Used in Calculating Basic and Diluted EPS

A reconciliation between the shares used in calculating basic and diluted EPS is as follows:

	2019 m		2018 m		2017 m
Average shares used in basic EPS calculation		1,250.0		1,247.8		1,261.1
Dilutive share options outstanding		0.3		1.6		1.8
Other potentially issuable shares		10.3		11.8		12.9
Shares used in diluted EPS calculation		1,260.6		1,261.2		1,275.8

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Sources of finance (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

Text block [abstract]

Summary of Equity and Debt Financing

The following table summarises the equity and debt financing of the Group, and changes during the year:

	Shares					Debt
Analysis of changes in financing	2019 £m			2018 £m		2019 £m			2018 £m
Beginning of year		703.0			701.8		6,217.9			6,481.3
Ordinary shares issued		0.6			1.2		–			–
Share cancellations		(0.5	)		–		–			–
Net decrease in drawings on bank loans and corporate bonds		–			–		(1,713.2	)		(440.6	)
Amortisation of financing costs included in debt		–			–		10.3			7.7
Changes in fair value due to hedging arrangements		–			–		14.3			(9.9	)
Other movements		–			–		1.5			(0.2	)
Exchange adjustments		–			–		(257.9	)		179.6
End of year		703.1			703.0		4,272.9			6,217.9

Note

The table above excludes bank overdrafts which fall within cash and cash equivalents for the purposes of the consolidated cash flow statement.

Analysis of Future Anticipated Cash Flows in Relation to Group's Financial Derivatives and Debt

The following table is an analysis of future anticipated cash flows in relation to the Group’s debt, on an undiscounted basis which, therefore, differs from the fair value and carrying value:

	2019 £m			2018 £m
Within one year		(324.8	)		(748.4	)
Between one and two years		(204.0	)		(596.8	)
Between two and three years		(692.1	)		(937.1	)
Between three and four years		(726.3	)		(742.5	)
Between four and five years		(634.2	)		(786.8	)
Over five years		(2,761.9	)		(4,199.7	)
Debt financing (including interest) under the Revolving Credit Facility and in relation to unsecured loan notes		(5,343.3	)		(8,011.3	)
Short-term overdrafts – within one year1		(8,572.4	)		(8,864.6	)
Future anticipated cash flows		(13,915.7	)		(16,875.9	)
Effect of discounting/financing rates		1,070.4			1,793.4
Debt financing		(12,845.3	)		(15,082.5	)

Note

1  Figures have been restated to be in accordance with IAS 32 Financial Instruments: Presentation, as described in the accounting policies.

The following table is an analysis of future undiscounted anticipated cash flows in relation to the Group’s financial derivatives, which include interest rate swaps, forward contracts and other foreign exchange swaps assuming interest rates and foreign exchange rates as at 31 December:

	Financial liabilities				Financial assets
2019	Payable £m		Receivable £m		Payable £m		Receivable £m
Within one year		113.6		107.8		44.0		45.0
Between one and two years		17.5		10.9		–		–
Between two and three years		11.8		6.2		–		–
Between three and four years		11.6		6.1		–		–
Between four and five years		11.6		6.1		–		–
Over five years		449.8		456.3		–		–
		615.9		593.4		44.0		45.0

	Financial liabilities				Financial assets
2018	Payable £m		Receivable £m		Payable £m		Receivable £m
Within one year		229.3		221.9		124.6		120.6
Between one and two years		50.0		45.3		11.8		6.5
Between two and three years		688.4		685.3		11.5		6.4
Between three and four years		408.5		406.6		11.6		6.5
Between four and five years		–		–		11.6		6.6
Over five years		–		–		461.4		498.2
		1,376.2		1,359.1		632.5		644.8

Analysis of Fixed and Floating Rate Debt by Currency

Analysis of fixed and floating rate debt by currency including the effect of interest rate and cross-currency swaps:

2019 Currency		£m		Fixed rate1		Floating basis		Period (months)1
$	– fixed		1,178.2		4.06		n/a		95
£	– fixed		844.1		2.73		n/a		188
€	– fixed		1,777.7		2.34		n/a		82
	– floating		423.3		n/a		EURIBOR		16
Other			49.6		n/a		n/a		n/a
			4,272.9

2018 Currency		£m		Fixed rate1		Floating basis		Period (months)1
$	– fixed		1,154.8		4.58		n/a		181
	– floating		1,029.6		n/a		LIBOR		n/a
£	– fixed		1,044.1		3.43		n/a		232
€	– fixed		2,425.9		1.99		n/a		75
	– floating		449.2		n/a		EURIBOR		n/a
Other			114.3		n/a		n/a		n/a
			6,217.9

Note

1  Weighted average. These rates do not include the effect of gains on interest rate swap terminations that are written to income over the life of the original instrument.

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Analysis of cash flows (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

Text block [abstract]

Summary of Analysis of Cash Flows

The following tables analyse the items included within the main cash flow headings on page F-17.

Net cash from operating activities:

	20191 £m			20181 £m			20171 £m
Profit for the year		950.1			901.1			2,059.4
Taxation		353.8			323.9			197.0
Revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments		(154.4	)		72.8			(409.3	)
Finance costs		376.4			289.3			269.8
Finance and investment income		(102.6	)		(104.8	)		(95.2	)
Share of results of associates		(21.2	)		(43.5	)		(113.5	)
Goodwill impairment on classification as held for sale		94.5			–			–
Gain on sale of discontinued operations		(73.8	)		–			–
Attributable tax expense on sale of discontinued operations		157.4			–			–
Adjustments for:
Non-cash share-based incentive plans (including share options)		71.4			84.8			105.0
Depreciation of property, plant and equipment		203.2			225.1			230.7
Depreciation of right-of-use assets		317.9			–			–
Impairment of goodwill		47.7			176.5			27.1
Amortisation and impairment of acquired intangible assets		135.6			280.0			195.1
Amortisation of other intangible assets		29.6			38.7			36.3
Investment write-downs		7.5			2.0			95.9
Gains on disposal of investments and subsidiaries		(45.1	)		(235.5	)		(129.0	)
(Gains)/losses on remeasurement of equity interests arising from a change in scope of ownership		(0.4	)		(2.0	)		0.3
Gain on sale of freehold property in New York		(7.9	)		–			–
Losses on sale of property, plant and equipment		3.2			0.6			1.1
Decrease/(increase) in trade receivables and accrued income		159.0			(298.9	)		(90.4	)
Increase/(decrease) in trade payables and deferred income		394.7			500.9			(170.8	)
Increase in other receivables		(263.8	)		(52.9	)		(110.6	)
Decrease in other payables – short-term		(16.4	)		(31.8	)		(122.8	)
Increase in other payables – long-term		53.7			0.4			20.1
Increase/(decrease) in provisions		23.1			48.0			(57.3	)
Corporation and overseas tax paid		(536.0	)		(383.6	)		(424.7	)
Payment on early settlement of bonds		(63.4	)		–			–
Interest and similar charges paid		(270.6	)		(252.8	)		(246.6	)
Interest paid on lease liabilities		(105.1	)		–			–
Interest received		80.8			90.4			76.9
Investment income		18.3			15.4			16.8
Dividends from associates		33.3			49.7			46.8
Net cash inflow from operating activities		1,850.5			1,693.8			1,408.1

Note

1  Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

Acquisitions and disposals:
	2019 £m			2018 £m			2017 £m
Initial cash consideration		(3.9	)		(126.7	)		(214.8	)
Cash and cash equivalents acquired		–			11.3			28.9
Earnout payments		(130.2	)		(120.2	)		(199.1	)
Purchase of other investments (including associates)		(27.2	)		(48.1	)		(92.5	)
Acquisitions		(161.3	)		(283.7	)		(477.5	)
Proceeds on disposal of investments and subsidiaries1		2,468.5			849.0			296.0
Cash and cash equivalents disposed		(327.5	)		(15.1	)		–
Disposals of investments and subsidiaries		2,141.0			833.9			296.0
Cash consideration for non-controlling interests		(62.7	)		(109.9	)		(47.3	)
Net acquisition payments and disposal proceeds		1,917.0			440.3			(228.8	)

Note

1  Proceeds on disposal of investments and subsidiaries includes return of capital from investments in associates.

Share repurchases and buybacks:
	2019 £m			2018 £m			2017 £m
Purchase of own shares by ESOP Trusts		–			(102.8	)		(214.6	)
Shares purchased into treasury		(43.8	)		(104.3	)		(289.6	)
Net cash outflow		(43.8	)		(207.1	)		(504.2	)
Net (decrease)/increase in borrowings:
	2019 £m			2018 £m			2017 £m
(Decrease)/increase in drawings on bank loans	(70.6)			(819.3)			785.6
Repayment of €600 million bonds	(512.7)			–			–
Repayment of $812 million bonds	(618.8)			–			–
Partial repayment of $272 million bonds	(135.4)			(20.8)			–
Partial repayment of $450 million bonds	(176.2)			(37.3)			–
Repayment of £200 million bonds	(199.5)			–			–
Proceeds from issue of €250 million bonds		–			218.8			214.0
Proceeds from issue of €500 million bonds		–			438.0			–
Repayment of €252 million bonds		–			(220.0	)		–
Repayment of £400 million bonds		–			–			(400.0	)
Net cash (outflow)/inflow		(1,713.2	)		(440.6	)		599.6
Cash and cash equivalents:
	20191 £m			20181 £m			20171 £m
Cash at bank and in hand	10,442.1			10,433.4			11,509.2
Short-term bank deposits		863.6			632.4			341.8
Overdrafts2		(8,572.4	)		(8,864.6	)		(9,852.8	)
		2,733.3			2,201.2			1,998.2

Notes

1  Figures have been restated to be in accordance with IAS 32 Financial Instruments: Presentation, as described in the accounting policies.

2  Bank overdrafts are included in cash and cash equivalents because they form an integral part of the Group’s cash management.

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Assets held for sale and discontinued operations (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

Text block [abstract]

Disclosure of detailed information about amounts of discontinued operations included in profit explanatory

Results of the discontinued operations, which have been included in profit for the year, were as follows:

	2019 £m			2018 £m			2017 £m
Revenue		2,387.5			2,555.7			2,657.8
Costs of services		(1,951.5	)		(2,104.4	)		(2,147.4	)
Gross profit		436.0			451.3			510.4
General and administrative costs		(151.7	)		(257.8	)		(180.1	)
Operating profit		284.3			193.5			330.3
Share of results of associates		6.5			13.0			15.5
Profit before interest and taxation		290.8			206.5			345.8
Finance income		3.6			5.4			6.2
Finance costs		(17.3	)		(9.7	)		(7.9	)
Revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments		(9.4	)		3.5			18.3
Profit before taxation		267.7			205.7			362.4
Attributable tax expense		(78.8	)		(67.9	)		(114.0	)
Profit after taxation		188.9			137.8			248.4
Goodwill impairment on classification as held for sale1		(94.5	)		–			–
Gain on sale of discontinued operations		73.8			–			–
Attributable tax expense on sale of discontinued operations		(157.4	)		–			–
Net gain attributable to discontinued operations		10.8			137.8			248.4
Attributable to
Equity holders of the parent		(3.8	)		126.4			237.1
Non-controlling interests		14.6			11.4			11.3
		10.8			137.8			248.4

Note

1  Goodwill impairment of £94.5 million arose from the assessment of fair value less costs to sell under IFRS 5.

Disclosure of detailed information about gain on sale of discontinued operations explanatory

The gain on sale of discontinued operations disposed by 31 December 2019 is calculated as follows:

	2019 £m
Intangible assets (including goodwill)		2,410.0
Property, plant and equipment		115.7
Right-of-use assets		103.5
Interests in associates and joint ventures		92.3
Other investments		11.5
Deferred tax assets		44.1
Corporate income tax recoverable		49.8
Trade and other receivables		748.8
Cash and cash equivalents		324.9
Trade and other payables		(839.8	)
Corporate income tax payable		(48.2	)
Lease liabilities		(106.3	)
Deferred tax liabilities		(98.6	)
Provisions for post-employment benefits		(26.7	)
Provisions for liabilities and charges		(22.4	)
Net assets		2,758.6
Non-controlling interests		(19.1	)
Net assets excluding non-controlling interests		2,739.5
Consideration received in cash and cash equivalents		2,352.1
Re-investment in equity stake1		231.7
Transaction costs		(56.1	)
Deferred consideration2		1.6
Total consideration received		2,529.3
Loss on sale before exchange adjustments		(210.2	)
Exchange adjustments recycled to the income statement		284.0
Gain on sale of discontinued operation		73.8

Notes

1  Re-investment in equity stake represents the value of the Group’s 40% stake in the new Kantar group as part of the disposal.

2  Deferred consideration is made up of £79.6 million expected to be received in future periods on the satisfaction of certain conditions and the deferral of £78.0 million consideration against services the Group will supply to Kantar on favourable terms in the future. The conditions expected to be met in the future include the settlement of ongoing legal cases, realisation of the value of certain investments and the utilisation of certain tax losses and allowances. There was uncertainty at the date of disposal in regard to the ultimate resolution of these items and estimates of amounts due to be received were required to be made; there were no individually material estimates. Future services provided by the Group to Kantar arose through the negotiation of Transition Service Arrangements, as is customary for a disposal of this magnitude. The Group will support Kantar for a period of up to 4 years, primarily in the area of IT, on terms which are favourable to the disposal group. As such, an element of consideration has been deferred and will be recognised as the services are provided.

Disclosure of detailed information about major classes of assets and liabilities held for sale

The major classes of assets and liabilities comprising the operations classified as held for sale at 31 December 2019 are as follows:

	2019 £m
Non-current assets
Intangible assets:
Goodwill		155.4
Other		5.9
Property, plant and equipment		12.8
Right-of-use assets		25.7
Interests in associates and joint ventures		4.6
Other investments		0.6
Deferred tax assets		5.9
Trade and other receivables		2.6
		213.5
Current assets
Corporate income tax recoverable		15.9
Trade and other receivables		189.4
Cash and short-term deposits		66.5
		271.8
Total assets classified as held for sale		485.3
Current liabilities
Trade and other payables		(130.4	)
Corporate income tax payable		(3.8	)
Bank overdrafts		(0.2	)
Short-term lease liabilities		(3.9	)
		(138.3	)
Non-current liabilities
Trade and other payables		(1.3	)
Deferred tax liabilities		(1.2	)
Provisions for post-employment benefits		(8.5	)
Provisions for liabilities and charges		(0.6	)
Long-term lease liabilities		(20.5	)
		(32.1	)
Total liabilities associated with assets classified as held for sale		(170.4	)
Net assets of disposal group		314.9

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Leases (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

Text block [abstract]

Movement in right of use of lease assets and liabilities

The movements in the year ended 31 December 2019 were as follows:

Right-of-use assets	Land and buildings £m			Plant and machinery £m			Total £m
1 January 2019		1,862.5			32.6			1,895.1
Additions		348.1			16.5			364.6
Transfers to net investment in subleases1		(37.6	)		–			(37.6	)
Disposals		(31.0	)		(0.6	)		(31.6	)
Depreciation of right-of-use assets		(301.5	)		(16.4	)		(317.9	)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(134.4	)		(3.7	)		(138.1	)
31 December 2019		1,706.1			28.4			1,734.5

Lease liabilities	Land and buildings £m		Plant and machinery £m		Total £m
1 January 2019	2,294.4		31.8		2,326.2
Additions	325.9		12.3		338.2
Interest expense related to lease liabilities	101.5		1.2		102.7
Disposals	(27.5	)	(0.2	)	(27.7	)
Repayment of lease liabilities (including interest)	(326.2	)	(14.9	)	(341.1	)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale	(144.7	)	(3.9	)	(148.6	)
31 December 2019	2,223.4		26.3		2,249.7

Summary of Lease Expense charged to operating profit and amounts charged to finance costs

The following table shows the breakdown of the lease expense between amounts charged to operating profit and amounts charged to finance costs:  

Continuing operations	2019 £m
Depreciation of right-of-use assets:
Land and buildings		(286.5	)
Plant and machinery		(15.1	)
Short-term lease expense		(83.8	)
Low-value lease expense		(2.9	)
Variable lease expense		(74.2	)
Sublease income		17.5
Charge to operating profit		(445.0	)
Interest expense related to lease liabilities		(99.7	)
Charge to profit before taxation for leases		(544.7	)

Disclosure of Maturity of lease liabilities

The maturity of lease liabilities at 31 December 2019 were as follows:

	2019 £m
Period ending 31 December
2020		385.9
2021		384.0
2022		335.4
2023		283.0
2024		220.5
Later years		1,393.7
		3,002.5
Effect of discounting		(752.8	)
Lease liability at 31 December 2019		2,249.7
Short-term lease liability		302.2
Long-term lease liability		1,947.5

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Intangible assets (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

Text block [abstract]

Movements of Goodwill

The movements in 2019 and 2018 were as follows:

	£m1
Cost
1 January 2018		13,597.0
Additions2		154.4
Revision of earnout estimates		(67.6	)
Exchange adjustments		368.1
31 December 2018		14,051.9
Additions2		8.5
Revision of earnout estimates		(14.1	)
Disposals		(18.6	)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(2,729.1	)
Exchange adjustments		(410.0	)
31 December 2019		10,888.6
Accumulated impairment losses and write-downs
1 January 2018		722.4
Impairment losses for the year		176.5
Exchange adjustments		20.4
31 December 2018		919.3
Impairment on classification as held for sale3		70.9
Impairment losses for the year		47.7
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(230.6	)
Exchange adjustments		(29.3	)
31 December 2019		778.0
Net book value
31 December 2019		10,110.6
31 December 2018		13,132.6
1 January 2018		12,874.6

Notes

1  Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

2  Additions represent goodwill arising on the acquisition of subsidiary undertakings including the effect of any revisions to fair value adjustments that had been determined provisionally at the immediately preceding balance sheet date, as permitted by IFRS 3 Business Combinations. The effect of such revisions was not material in either year presented.

3 Goodwill impairment of £70.9 million arose from the assessment of fair value less costs to sell of the Kantar group on classification as held for sale under IFRS 5.

Movements of Other Intangible Assets

Other intangible assets

The movements in 2019 and 2018 were as follows:

	Brands with an indefinite useful life £m		Acquired intangibles £m		Other £m		Total £m
Cost
1 January 2018	1,081.3		2,547.8		411.5		4,040.6
Additions	–		–		60.4		60.4
Disposals	–		(0.9	)	(37.3	)	(38.2	)
New acquisitions	–		40.3		–		40.3
Other movements1	–		2.9		(7.4	)	(4.5	)
Exchange adjustments	51.5		19.9		10.1		81.5
31 December 2018	1,132.8		2,610.0		437.3		4,180.1
Additions	–		–		43.2		43.2
Disposals	–		(3.4	)	(41.0	)	(44.4	)
New acquisitions	–		3.5		–		3.5
Other movements			–		(1.4	)	(1.4	)
Exchange adjustments	(41.4	)	(28.2	)	(9.9	)	(79.5	)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale	–		(979.0	)	(115.9	)	(1,094.9	)
31 December 2019	1,091.4		1,602.9		312.3		3,006.6
Amortisation and impairment
1 January 2018	–		1,718.7		303.5		2,022.2
Charge for the year	–		275.8		38.7		314.5
Disposals	–		(0.7	)	(27.3	)	(28.0	)
Other movements	–		–		(1.9	)	(1.9	)
Exchange adjustments	–		21.4		9.9		31.3
31 December 2018	–		2,015.2		322.9		2,338.1
Charge for the year	13.2		116.8		29.6		159.6
Disposals	–		(1.6	)	(37.7	)	(39.3	)
Other movements	–		–		2.6		2.6
Exchange adjustments	–		(15.2	)	(9.1	)	(24.3	)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale	–		(835.9	)	(63.0	)	(898.9	)
31 December 2019	13.2		1,279.3		245.3		1,537.8
Net book value
31 December 2019	1,078.2		323.6		67.0		1,468.8
31 December 2018	1,132.8		594.8		114.4		1,842.0
1 January 2018	1,081.3		829.1		108.0		2,018.4

Note

1  Other movements in acquired intangibles include revisions to fair value adjustments arising on the acquisition of subsidiary undertakings that had been determined provisionally at the immediately preceding balance sheet date, as permitted by IFRS 3 Business Combinations.

Cash-generating Units with Significant Goodwill

Cash-generating units with significant goodwill and brands with an indefinite useful life as at 31 December are:

	Goodwill				Brands with an indefinite useful life
	2019 £m1		2018 £m1		2019 £m		2018 £m
GroupM		2,921.7		2,928.6		–		–
Kantar		–		2,513.0		–		–
Wunderman Thompson		2,121.9		2,101.8		409.7		424.8
VMLY&R		901.0		930.4		199.1		206.6
Ogilvy		758.6		614.4		211.1		219.1
Burson Cohn & Wolfe		739.3		711.9		130.2		135.4
Other		2,668.1		3,332.5		128.1		146.9
Total goodwill		10,110.6		13,132.6		1,078.2		1,132.8

Note

1 Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

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Property, plant and equipment (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

Text block [abstract]

Summary of Property, Plant and Equipment

The movements in 2019 and 2018 were as follows:

	Land £m			Freehold buildings £m			Leasehold buildings £m			Fixtures, fittings and equipment £m			Computer equipment £m			Total £m
Cost
1 January 2018		37.1			118.8			1,081.8			377.2			703.0			2,317.9
Additions		–			17.7			161.4			49.9			85.8			314.8
New acquisitions		–			0.1			0.9			1.2			0.9			3.1
Disposals		–			–			(83.5	)		(62.9	)		(109.3	)		(255.7	)
Exchange adjustments		–			(1.1	)		41.8			9.9			10.0			60.6
31 December 2018		37.1			135.5			1,202.4			375.3			690.4			2,440.7
Additions		–			33.7			158.5			35.0			67.7			294.9
New acquisitions		–			–			–			0.1			–			0.1
Disposals		–			(109.0	)		(167.3	)		(68.3	)		(76.3	)		(420.9	)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(2.8	)		(17.1	)		(98.1	)		(115.2	)		(231.5	)		(464.7	)
Exchange adjustments		–			(16.9	)		(46.7	)		(14.5	)		(26.4	)		(104.5	)
31 December 2019		34.3			26.2			1,048.8			212.4			423.9			1,745.6
Depreciation
1 January 2018		–			28.5			526.1			236.9			546.9			1,338.4
Charge for the year		–			3.1			91.5			44.4			86.1			225.1
Disposals		–			–			(74.6	)		(58.0	)		(107.9	)		(240.5	)
Exchange adjustments		–			(4.5	)		24.3			6.4			8.5			34.7
31 December 2018		–			27.1			567.3			229.7			533.6			1,357.7
Charge for the year		–			1.5			79.9			36.3			67.8			185.5
Disposals		–			(7.2	)		(129.9	)		(59.9	)		(74.5	)		(271.5	)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		–			(15.6	)		(56.1	)		(81.7	)		(192.6	)		(346.0	)
Exchange adjustments		–			(1.6	)		(17.9	)		(13.2	)		(23.4	)		(56.1	)
31 December 2019		–			4.2			443.3			111.2			310.9			869.6
Net book value
31 December 2019		34.3			22.0			605.5			101.2			113.0			876.0
31 December 2018		37.1			108.4			635.1			145.6			156.8			1,083.0
1 January 2018		37.1			90.3			555.7			140.3			156.1			979.5

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Interests in associates, joint ventures and other investments (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

Investments accounted for using equity method [abstract]

Movements in Associates, Joint Ventures and Other Investments

The movements in 2019 and 2018 were as follows:

	Interests in associates and joint ventures £m			Other investments £m
1 January 2018		1,065.2			1,153.5
Additions		16.7			35.0
Share of results of associate undertakings		43.5			–
Dividends		(49.7	)		–
Other movements		1.2			–
Reclassification from other investments to associates		0.3			(0.3	)
Exchange adjustments		12.9			–
Disposals		(304.0	)		(341.7	)
Reclassification to subsidiaries		16.9			–
Revaluation of other investments through profit or loss		–			68.1
Revaluation of other investments through other comprehensive income		–			(247.9	)
Amortisation of other intangible assets		(4.2	)		–
Write-downs		(2.0	)		–
31 December 2018		796.8			666.7
Additions		236.6			18.3
Share of results of associate undertakings		21.2			–
Dividends		(33.3	)		–
Other movements		1.2			–
Exchange adjustments		(35.5	)		–
Disposals		(51.5	)		(42.3	)
Reclassification to subsidiaries		(0.3	)		–
Revaluation of other investments through profit or loss		–			9.1
Revaluation of other investments through other comprehensive income		–			(141.4	)
Amortisation of other intangible assets		(5.6	)		–
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(109.1	)		(12.1	)
Write-downs		(7.5	)		–
31 December 2019		813.0			498.3

Principal Associates and Joint Ventures

The Group’s principal associates and joint ventures at 31 December 2019 included:

	% owned		Country of incorporation
Barrows Design and Manufacturing (Pty) Limited		35.0		South Africa
Dat Viet VAC Media Corporation		30.0		Vietnam
GIIR Inc.		30.0		Korea
Haworth Marketing & Media Company		49.0		USA
High Co SA		34.1		France
Joye Media SL1		22.5		Spain
Nanjing Yindu Ogilvy Advertising Co. Ltd		49.0		China
Smollan Holdings (Pty) Ltd		24.8		South Africa
Summer (BC) JVCo S.à r.l.2		40.0		Luxembourg
Summer (BC) US JVCo SCSp2		40.0		Luxembourg

Notes

1  Representing the Group’s interest in Imagina.

2  Representing the Group’s interest in Kantar split between the United States and rest of world.

Summary of Aggregate Financial Performance and Net Asset Position of Associates and Joint Ventures

The following tables present a summary of the aggregate financial performance and net asset position of the Group’s associate undertakings and joint ventures. These have been estimated and converted, where appropriate, to an IFRS presentation based on information provided by the relevant companies at 31 December 2019.

	2019 £m			2018 £m			2017 £m
Income statement
Revenue		3,619.1			3,685.8			3,800.8
Operating profit		365.6			378.4			440.4
Profit before taxation		(385.9	)		194.7			381.9
Profit for the year		(429.6	)		118.1			312.5
Balance sheet
Assets		8,855.1			2,940.9			3,192.9
Liabilities		(6,765.7	)		(1,570.6	)		(1,633.7	)
Net assets		2,089.4			1,370.3			1,559.2

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Deferred tax (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

Text block [abstract]

Analysis of Deferred Tax Balances for Financial Reporting Purposes

The following is the analysis of the deferred tax balances for financial reporting purposes:

	Gross 2019 £m			Offset 2019 £m			As reported 2019 £m			Gross 2018 £m			Offset 2018 £m			As reported 2018 £m
Deferred tax assets		430.9			(243.0	)		187.9			412.0			(259.0	)		153.0
Deferred tax liabilities		(622.8	)		243.0			(379.8	)		(738.5	)		259.0			(479.5	)
		(191.9	)					(191.9	)		(326.5	)		–			(326.5	)

Movements of Major Gross Deferred Tax Assets

The following are the major gross deferred tax assets recognised by the Group and movements thereon in 2019 and 2018:

	Deferred compensation £m			Accounting provisions and accruals £m			Retirement benefit obligations £m			Property, plant and equipment £m			Tax losses and credits £m			Share- based payments £m			Restructuring provisions £m			Other temporary differences £m			Total £m
1 January 2018		53.5			84.9			75.6			68.4			72.7			33.0			5.8			17.9			411.8
Acquisition of subsidiaries		–			–			–			–			–			–			–			2.0			2.0
Credit/(charge) to income		4.7			13.0			(11.2	)		(20.6	)		(8.9	)		(15.3	)		10.7			11.0			(16.6	)
Charge to other comprehensive income		–			–			(0.2	)		–			–			–			–			–			(0.2	)
Charge to equity		–			–			–			–			–			(1.6	)		–			–			(1.6	)
Exchange differences		3.4			3.5			4.3			0.1			3.3			0.7			0.8			0.5			16.6
31 December 2018		61.6			101.4			68.5			47.9			67.1			16.8			17.3			31.4			412.0
(Charge)/credit to income		(1.7	)		10.2			6.7			19.4			24.2			2.9			12.5			(16.6	)		57.6
Charge to other comprehensive income		–			–			(3.2	)		–			–			–			–			–			(3.2	)
Credit to equity		–			–			–			27.8			–			3.1			–			–			30.9
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(4.2	)		(19.2	)		(12.3	)		(13.6	)		(3.0	)		(0.7	)		(3.4	)		0.1			(56.3	)
Exchange differences		(2.2	)		(5.0	)		(2.2	)		3.2			(2.0	)		(0.6	)		(0.6	)		(0.7	)		(10.1	)
31 December 2019		53.5			87.4			57.5			84.7			86.3			21.5			25.8			14.2			430.9

Movements of Gross Deferred Tax Liabilities

In addition the Group has recognised the following gross deferred tax liabilities and movements thereon in 2019 and 2018:

	Brands and other intangibles £m			Associate earnings £m			Goodwill £m			Property, plant and equipment £m			Financial instruments £m			Other temporary differences £m			Total £m
1 January 2018		489.2			21.6			140.4			21.2			36.2			56.6			765.2
Acquisition of subsidiaries		10.7			–			–			–			–			–			10.7
(Credit)/charge to income		(68.8	)		(3.9	)		31.8			(0.3	)		(0.9	)		(20.7	)		(62.8	)
Charge to other comprehensive income		–			–			–			–			–			0.5			0.5
Exchange differences		7.5			(0.1	)		10.1			1.3			4.6			1.5			24.9
31 December 2018		438.6			17.6			182.3			22.2			39.9			37.9			738.5
Acquisition of subsidiaries		0.8			–			–			–			–			–			0.8
(Credit)/charge to income		(31.2	)		68.6			10.3			(22.2	)		(0.7	)		(6.7	)		18.1
Credit to other comprehensive income		–			–			–			–			–			(9.6	)		(9.6	)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(46.6	)		(7.9	)		(51.7	)		–			–			0.6			(105.6	)
Exchange differences		(9.3	)		(1.8	)		(5.5	)		–			(2.3	)		(0.5	)		(19.4	)
31 December 2019		352.3			76.5			135.4			–			36.9			21.7			622.8

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Trade and other receivables (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

Statement [LineItems]

Bad Debt Provisions

Bad debt provisions:

	2019 £m			2018 £m			2017 £m
At beginning of year		116.6			91.3			93.8
New acquisitions		5.0			1.5			1.2
Charged to the income statement		45.4			66.7			27.4
Released to the income statement		(19.0	)		(11.6	)		(8.4	)
Exchange adjustments		(4.1	)		2.1			(4.1	)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(8.9	)		–			–
Utilisations and other movements		(23.3	)		(33.4	)		(18.6	)
At end of year		111.7			116.6			91.3

Within one year [member]

Statement [LineItems]

Summary of Trade and Other Receivables

Amounts falling due within one year	2019 £m		2018 £m
Trade receivables (net of bad debt provision)		7,007.6		8,062.2
Work in progress		349.5		366.5
VAT and sales taxes recoverable		212.7		264.2
Prepayments		287.1		287.3
Accrued income		3,292.7		3,541.2
Fair value of derivatives		1.4		1.3
Other debtors		671.3		578.8
		11,822.3		13,101.5

Over 1 year [member]

Statement [LineItems]

Summary of Trade and Other Receivables

Amounts falling due after more than one year	2019 £m		2018 £m
Prepayments		2.2		3.0
Accrued income		–		16.5
Fair value of derivatives		–		8.4
Other debtors		135.4		152.1
		137.6		180.0

Trade and other receivable [member]

Statement [LineItems]

Ageing of Trade Receivables and Other Financial Assets

The ageing of trade receivables and other financial assets by due date is as follows:

	Carrying amount at 31 December 2019 £m		Not past due £m		Days past due
2019					0-30 days £m		31-90 days £m		91-180 days £m		181 days- 1 year £m		Greater than 1 year £m
Trade receivables		7,007.6		5,553.3		934.9		341.0		92.1		22.4		63.9
Other financial assets		582.5		357.6		129.9		48.3		16.2		5.2		25.3
		7,590.1		5,910.9		1,064.8		389.3		108.3		27.6		89.2
	Carrying amount at 31 December 2018 £m		Not past due £m		Days past due
2018					0-30 days £m		31-90 days £m		91-180 days £m		181 days- 1 year £m		Greater than 1 year £m
Trade receivables		8,062.2		5,873.7		1,370.7		549.1		128.3		75.6		64.8
Other financial assets		551.7		424.9		61.3		14.2		8.6		7.7		35.0
		8,613.9		6,298.6		1,432.0		563.3		136.9		83.3		99.8

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Trade and other payables: amounts falling due within one year (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

Within one year [member]

Statement [LineItems]

Summary of Trade and Other Payables

The following are included in trade and other payables falling due within one year:

	20191 £m		20181 £m
Trade payables		10,112.1		10,524.3
Deferred income		1,024.6		1,253.6
Payments due to vendors (earnout agreements)		143.4		149.1
Liabilities in respect of put option agreements with vendors		75.7		19.4
Fair value of derivatives		1.5		2.6
Share repurchases - close period commitments2		252.3		–
Other creditors and accruals		2,578.5		3,072.9
		14,188.1		15,021.9

Notes

1  Figures have been restated to be in accordance with IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, as described in the accounting policies

2  During 2019, the Company entered into an arrangement with a third party to conduct share buybacks on its behalf in the close period commencing on 2 January 2020 and ending on 27 February 2020, in accordance with UK listing rules. The commitment resulting from this agreement constitutes a liability at 31 December 2019, which is included in Trade and other payables: amounts falling due within one year and has been recognised as a movement in equity.

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Trade and other payables: amounts falling due after more than one year (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

Over 1 year [member]

Statement [LineItems]

Summary of Trade and Other Payables

The following are included in trade and other payables falling due after more than one year:

	20191 £m		20181 £m
Payments due to vendors (earnout agreements)		100.3		251.7
Liabilities in respect of put option agreements with vendors		128.8		188.6
Fair value of derivatives		21.2		14.2
Other creditors and accruals		199.3		355.5
		449.6		810.0

Note

1  Figures have been restated to be in accordance with IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, as described in the accounting policies

Trade and Other Payable [member]

Statement [LineItems]

Maturity Analysis for Non-derivative Financial Liabilities

The following tables set out payments due to vendors, comprising contingent consideration and the Directors’ best estimates of future earnout-related obligations:

	20191 £m			20181 £m
Within one year		143.4			149.1
Between one and two years		36.3			140.0
Between two and three years		34.6			36.6
Between three and four years		12.3			44.0
Between four and five years		7.7			17.1
Over five years		9.4			14.0
		243.7			400.8
	2019 £m			2018 £m
At beginning of year		400.8			584.5
Earnouts paid		(130.0	)		(120.2	)
New acquisitions		9.6			48.6
Revision of estimates taken to goodwill (note 14)		(14.1	)		(67.6	)
Revaluation of payments due to vendors		3.8			(50.5	)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(11.5	)		–
Exchange adjustments		(14.9	)		6.0
At end of year		243.7			400.8

Note

1  Figures have been restated to be in accordance with IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, as described in the accounting policies

XML

Bank overdrafts, bonds and bank loans (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

Text block [abstract]

Bank Overdrafts, Bonds and Bank Loans Amounts Falling Due Within One Year

Amounts falling due within one year:

	20191 £m		20181 £m
Bank overdrafts		8,572.4		8,864.6
Corporate bonds and bank loans		225.6		583.1
		8,798.0		9,447.7

Corporate Bonds and Bank Loans Amounts Falling Due After More Than One Year

Amounts falling due after more than one year:

	2019 £m		2018 £m
Corporate bonds and bank loans		4,047.3		5,634.8

Maturity Analysis for Non-derivative Financial Liabilities

The corporate bonds, bank loans and overdrafts included within liabilities fall due for repayment as follows:

	20191 £m		20181 £m
Within one year		8,798.0		9,447.7
Between one and two years		96.4		423.8
Between two and three years		590.4		761.0
Between three and four years		632.1		609.8
Between four and five years		554.3		670.1
Over five years		2,174.1		3,170.1
		12,845.3		15,082.5

Note

1  Figures have been restated to be in accordance with IAS 32 Financial Instruments: Presentation, as described in the accounting policies.

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Provisions for liabilities and charges (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

Text block [abstract]

Summary of Provisions for Liabilities and Charges

The movements in 2019 and 2018 were as follows:

	Property £m			Other £m			Total £m
1 January 2018		52.6			176.4			229.0
Charged to the income statement1		72.1			13.9			86.0
Acquisitions2		0.5			8.3			8.8
Utilised		(5.7	)		(20.1	)		(25.8	)
Released to the income statement		(5.7	)		(4.6	)		(10.3	)
Other movements		2.0			10.9			12.9
Exchange adjustments		2.9			8.2			11.1
31 December 2018		118.7			193.0			311.7
Charged to the income statement		39.5			7.6			47.1
Acquisitions2		–			0.7			0.7
Utilised		(1.2	)		(12.2	)		(13.4	)
Released to the income statement		(10.3	)		(6.9	)		(17.2	)
Other movements3		(58.4	)		9.2			(49.2	)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(6.2	)		(18.4	)		(24.6	)
Exchange adjustments		(0.6	)		(6.7	)		(7.3	)
31 December 2019		81.5			166.3			247.8

Notes

1  Amounts charged to the income statement in 2018 include £50.6 million in regard to transformation costs with respect to the strategic initiative of co-locations in major cities.

2  Acquisitions include £0.7 million (2018: £8.4 million) of provisions arising from revisions to fair value adjustments related to the acquisition of subsidiary undertakings that had been determined provisionally at the immediately preceding balance sheet date, as permitted by IFRS 3 Business Combinations.

3 Other movements include transfers of property provisions related to property leases which are now recognised in the right-of-use assets, increases of certain property-related liabilities and certain long-term employee benefits.

XML

Share-based payments (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

Text block [abstract]

Charges for Share-based Incentive Plans

Charges for share-based incentive plans were as follows:

Continuing operations	2019 £m		20181 £m		20171 £m
Share-based payments		66.0		78.3		98.3

Note

1  Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies.

Movement on Ordinary Shares Granted for Significant Restricted Stock Plans

Movement on ordinary shares granted for significant restricted stock plans:

	Non-vested 1 January 2019 number m		Granted number m		Lapsed number m			Vested number m			Non-vested 31 December 2019 number m
Executive Performance Share Plan (EPSP)		6.7		4.2		(1.3	)		(0.8	)		8.8
Performance Share Awards (PSA)		2.3		1.7		(0.4	)		(1.0	)		2.6
Leaders, Partners and High Potential Group		9.1		4.1		(1.9	)		(2.0	)		9.3
Weighted average fair value (pence per share):
Executive Performance Share Plan (EPSP)		1,363p		989p		1,334p			1,265p			1,198p
Performance Share Awards (PSA)		1,437p		926p		1,210p			1,572p			1,081p
Leaders, Partners and High Potential Group		1,154p		909p		1,076p			1,551p			974p

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Provision for post-employment benefits (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

Statement [LineItems]

Pension Costs

The Group’s pension costs are analysed as follows:

Continuing operations	2019 £m		20181 £m		20171 £m
Defined contribution plans		154.9		146.7		149.5
Defined benefit plans charge to operating profit		14.8		14.2		11.8
Pension costs (note 5)		169.7		160.9		161.3
Net interest expense on pension plans (note 6)		3.5		3.6		5.4
		173.2		164.5		166.7

Note

1  Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies.

Weighted Average Assumptions Used For Actuarial Valuations

The main weighted average assumptions used for the actuarial valuations at 31 December are shown in the following table:

	2019 % pa		2018 % pa		2017 % pa		2016 % pa
UK
Discount rate1		2.0		2.8		2.4		2.5
Rate of increase in salaries2		n/a		n/a		n/a		3.5
Rate of increase in pensions in payment		4.4		4.3		4.1		4.1
Inflation		2.6		2.8		2.7		2.8
North America
Discount rate1		3.0		4.1		3.5		3.8
Rate of increase in salaries		3.0		3.0		3.1		3.1
Inflation		n/a		n/a		4.0		4.0
Western Continental Europe
Discount rate1		1.2		2.0		1.9		1.7
Rate of increase in salaries		2.2		2.3		1.9		2.0
Rate of increase in pensions in payment		1.8		1.2		1.2		1.3
Inflation		1.7		1.7		1.7		1.7
Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe
Discount rate1		4.6		5.0		4.2		4.2
Rate of increase in salaries		6.1		5.8		5.5		5.9
Inflation		3.7		3.6		4.0		4.0

Notes

1  Discount rates are based on high-quality corporate bond yields. In countries where there is no deep market in corporate bonds, the discount rate assumption has been set with regard to the yield on long-term government bonds.

2  The salary assumptions are no longer applicable to the UK as the plans were either frozen or bought out since 2017. Active participants will not accrue additional benefits for future services under these plans.

Life Expectancies For Defined Benefit Pension Plans

At 31 December 2019, the life expectancies underlying the value of the accrued liabilities for the main defined benefit pension plans operated by the Group were as follows:

Years life expectancy after age 65	All plans		North America		UK		Western Continental Europe		Other1
Current pensioners (at age 65) – male		22.2		21.9		23.1		20.8		14.0
Current pensioners (at age 65) – female		23.7		23.3		24.1		23.9		17.4
Future pensioners (current age 45) – male		23.8		23.4		24.7		23.2		14.0
Future pensioners (current age 45) – female		25.4		24.9		25.9		26.0		17.4

Note

1  Includes Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe.

Weighted Average Duration of Defined Benefit Pension Obligations and Distribution of Timing of Benefit Payments

The following table provides information on the weighted average duration of the defined benefit pension obligations and the distribution of the timing of benefit payments for the next 10 years. The duration corresponds to the weighted average length of the underlying cash flows.

	All plans		North America		UK		Western Continental Europe		Other1
Weighted average duration of the defined benefit obligation (years)		11.2		9.1		13.8		12.7		8.5
Expected benefit payments over the next 10 years (£m)
Benefits expected to be paid within 12 months		51.4		25.1		15.8		5.8		4.7
Benefits expected to be paid in 2021		45.4		24.5		12.6		5.5		2.8
Benefits expected to be paid in 2022		46.9		26.0		12.7		5.8		2.4
Benefits expected to be paid in 2023		44.4		22.3		12.9		5.7		3.5
Benefits expected to be paid in 2024		42.3		20.9		13.0		5.6		2.8
Benefits expected to be paid in the next five years		216.1		94.7		67.1		32.6		21.7

Note

1  Includes Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe.

Sensitivity Analysis of Significant Actuarial Assumptions

	Increase/(decrease) in benefit obligation
Sensitivity analysis of significant actuarial assumptions	2019 £m			2018 £m
Discount rate
Increase by 25 basis points:
UK		(8.2	)		(9.8	)
North America		(7.5	)		(8.8	)
Western Continental Europe		(3.8	)		(8.7	)
Other1		(0.7	)		(0.7	)
Decrease by 25 basis points:
UK		8.5			10.3
North America		7.7			9.1
Western Continental Europe		3.9			9.3
Other1		0.7			0.7
Rate of increase in salaries
Increase by 25 basis points:
Western Continental Europe		0.8			1.3
Other1		0.6			0.7
Decrease by 25 basis points:
Western Continental Europe		(0.8	)		(1.2	)
Other1		(0.6	)		(0.6	)
Rate of increase in pensions in payment
Increase by 25 basis points:
UK		0.7			1.3
Western Continental Europe		1.9			5.3
Decrease by 25 basis points:
UK		(0.6	)		(0.8	)
Western Continental Europe		(1.9	)		(5.0	)
Life expectancy
Increase in longevity by one additional year:
UK		11.7			13.6
North America		5.9			5.7
Western Continental Europe		4.3			6.9

Note

1  Includes Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe.

Fair Value of Assets and Assessed Present Value of Liabilities in Pension Plans

At 31 December, the fair value of the assets in the pension plans, and the assessed present value of the liabilities in the pension plans are shown in the following table:

	2019 £m			%		2018 £m			%		2017 £m			%
Equities		55.5			9.1		76.5			9.1		124.6			13.4
Bonds		272.5			44.8		544.9			64.8		520.0			55.9
Insured annuities1		239.1			39.3		90.9			10.8		178.5			19.2
Property		0.7			0.1		0.9			0.1		1.3			0.1
Cash		17.7			2.9		31.1			3.7		9.9			1.1
Other		23.0			3.8		96.3			11.5		95.7			10.3
Total fair value of assets		608.5			100.0		840.6			100.0		930.0			100.0
Present value of liabilities		(767.5	)				(1,024.0	)				(1,135.4	)
Deficit in the plans		(159.0	)				(183.4	)				(205.4	)
Irrecoverable surplus		–					(0.9	)				(0.9	)
Net liability2		(159.0	)				(184.3	)				(206.3	)
Plans in surplus		20.6					42.8					43.9
Plans in deficit		(179.6	)				(227.1	)				(250.2	)

Notes

1  The increase in 2019 from 2018 in the amount of assets held in insured annuities is attributable to the completion of buy-in transactions during 2019 for certain UK plans. The invested assets for these plans, as at 31 December 2018 consisted of a mixture of equities, bonds, cash and other assets, were transferred to an insurance company and, in accordance with IAS 19, all assets for these plans are now classified as insured annuities.

2  The related deferred tax asset is discussed in note 17.

Surplus/(Deficit) in Plans by Region

All plan assets have quoted prices in active markets with the exception of insured annuities and other assets.

Surplus/(deficit) in plans by region	2019 £m			2018 £m			2017 £m
UK		0.3			33.7			31.5
North America		(45.2	)		(68.7	)		(89.2	)
Western Continental Europe		(79.4	)		(104.6	)		(107.7	)
Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe		(34.7	)		(43.8	)		(40.0	)
Deficit in the plans		(159.0	)		(183.4	)		(205.4	)

Funded and Unfunded Pension Plans By Region

The following table shows the split of the deficit at 31 December between funded and unfunded pension plans.

	2019 Surplus/ (deficit) £m			2019 Present value of liabilities £m			2018 Surplus/ (deficit) £m			2018 Present value of liabilities £m			2017 Surplus/ (deficit) £m			2017 Present value of liabilities £m
Funded plans by region
UK		0.3			(247.6	)		33.7			(290.5	)		31.5			(387.5	)
North America		12.8			(286.2	)		(4.6	)		(375.3	)		(21.4	)		(385.4	)
Western Continental Europe		(33.3	)		(77.6	)		(35.8	)		(168.4	)		(37.9	)		(173.3	)
Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe		(3.6	)		(20.9	)		(6.6	)		(19.7	)		(4.2	)		(15.8	)
Deficit/liabilities in the funded plans		(23.8	)		(632.3	)		(13.3	)		(853.9	)		(32.0	)		(962.0	)
Unfunded plans by region
North America		(58.0	)		(58.0	)		(64.1	)		(64.1	)		(67.8	)		(67.8	)
Western Continental Europe		(46.1	)		(46.1	)		(68.8	)		(68.8	)		(69.8	)		(69.8	)
Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe		(31.1	)		(31.1	)		(37.2	)		(37.2	)		(35.8	)		(35.8	)
Deficit/liabilities in the unfunded plans		(135.2	)		(135.2	)		(170.1	)		(170.1	)		(173.4	)		(173.4	)
Deficit/liabilities in the plans		(159.0	)		(767.5	)		(183.4	)		(1,024.0	)		(205.4	)		(1,135.4	)

Pension Expense Charged to Operating Profit, Amounts Charged to Finance Costs and Amounts Recognised in Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income (OCI)

The following tables show the breakdown of the pension expense between amounts charged to operating profit and amounts charged to finance costs:

Continuing operations	2019 £m		20181 £m		20171 £m
Service cost2		12.9		12.0		9.4
Administrative expenses		1.9		2.2		2.4
Charge to operating profit		14.8		14.2		11.8
Net interest expense on pension plans		3.5		3.6		5.4
Charge to profit before taxation for defined benefit plans		18.3		17.8		17.2

Notes

1  Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies.

2  Includes current service cost, past service costs related to plan amendments and (gain)/loss on settlements and curtailments.

The following tables show the breakdown of amounts recognised in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income (OCI):

	2019 £m			2018 £m			2017 £m
Return on plan assets (excluding interest income)		16.7			(43.9	)		13.4
Changes in demographic assumptions underlying the present value of the plan liabilities		5.9			3.8			12.7
Changes in financial assumptions underlying the present value of the plan liabilities		(64.3	)		45.2			(17.0	)
Experience gain arising on the plan liabilities		5.1			3.8			7.9
Actuarial (loss)/gain recognised in OCI		(36.6	)		8.9			17.0

Retirement benefit obligation [member]

Statement [LineItems]

Movement in Pension Plan Assets and Liabilities

The following table shows an analysis of the movement in the pension plan liabilities for each accounting period:

	2019 £m			2018 £m			2017 £m
Plan liabilities at beginning of year		1,024.0			1,135.4			1,209.8
Service cost1		14.9			15.5			13.0
Interest cost		26.2			30.7			32.9
Actuarial (gain)/loss:
Effect of changes in demographic assumptions		(5.9	)		(3.8	)		(12.7	)
Effect of changes in financial assumptions		64.3			(45.2	)		17.0
Effect of experience adjustments		(5.1	)		(3.8	)		(7.9	)
Benefits paid2		(140.8	)		(75.6	)		(79.7	)
(Gain)/loss due to exchange rate movements		(22.7	)		30.0			(36.4	)
Settlement payments3		(47.4	)		(70.4	)		(1.2	)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(148.0	)		–			–
Other4		8.0			11.2			0.6
Plan liabilities at end of year		767.5			1,024.0			1,135.4

Notes

1  Includes current service cost, past service costs related to plan amendments and (gain)/loss on settlements and curtailments.

2  In 2019, there was an amendment to a US defined benefit plan that allowed certain participants to receive immediate lump sum pay-outs, which totalled £69.7 million.

3  In 2019 and 2018, the Group completed the transfer of the defined benefit obligations for certain UK plans to an insurer resulting in £47.1 million and £70.4 million, respectively, in settlement payments.

4  Other includes acquisitions, disposals, plan participants’ contributions and reclassifications. The reclassifications represent certain of the Group’s defined benefit plans which are included in this note for the first time in the periods presented.

Plan assets [member]

Statement [LineItems]

Movement in Pension Plan Assets and Liabilities

(e) Movement in plan assets

The following table shows an analysis of the movement in the pension plan assets for each accounting period:

	2019 £m			2018 £m			2017 £m
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year		840.6			930.0			934.2
Interest income on plan assets		22.4			26.3			26.6
Return on plan assets (excluding interest income)		16.7			(43.9	)		13.4
Employer contributions		37.1			44.9			68.2
Benefits paid1		(140.8	)		(75.6	)		(79.7	)
(Loss)/gain due to exchange rate movements		(15.7	)		23.0			(28.7	)
Settlement payments2		(47.4	)		(70.4	)		(1.2	)
Administrative expenses		(2.1	)		(3.4	)		(3.1	)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(111.1	)		–			–
Other3		8.8			9.7			0.3
Fair value of plan assets at end of year		608.5			840.6			930.0
Actual return on plan assets		39.1			(17.6	)		40.0

Notes

1  In 2019, there was an amendment to a US defined benefit plan that allowed certain participants to receive immediate lump sum pay-outs, which totalled £69.7 million.

2  In 2019 and 2018, the Group completed the transfer of the defined benefit obligations for certain UK plans to an insurer resulting in £47.1 million and £70.4 million, respectively, in settlement payments.

3  Other includes acquisitions, disposals, plan participants’ contributions and reclassifications. The reclassifications represent certain of the Group’s defined benefit plans which are included in this note for the first time in the periods presented.

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Risk management policies (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

Text block [abstract]

Committed Facilities

At 31 December 2019, the Group has access to £6.3 billion of committed facilities with maturity dates spread over the years 2020 to 2046 as illustrated below:

		2020 £m		2021 £m		2022 £m		2023 £m		2024+ £m
£ bonds £400m (2.875% 2046)	400.0										400.0
US bond $220m (5.625% 2043)	165.8										165.8
US bond $93m (5.125% 2042)	70.0										70.0
Eurobonds €600m (1.625% 2030)	507.9										507.9
Eurobonds €750m (2.25% 2026)	634.9										634.9
Eurobonds €500m (1.375% 2025)	423.3										423.3
US bond $750m (3.75% 2024)	565.5										565.5
Bank revolver ($2,500m 2024)	1,884.9										1,884.9
Eurobonds €750m (3.0% 2023)	634.9								634.9
US bond $500m (3.625% 2022)	377.0						377.0
Eurobonds €250m (3m EURIBOR + 0.45% 2022)	211.6						211.6
Bank revolver (A$150m 2020, A$270m 2021)	222.4		79.4		143.0
Eurobonds €250m (3m EURIBOR + 0.32% 2020)	211.6		211.6
Total committed facilities available	6,309.8		291.0		143.0		588.6		634.9		4,652.3
Drawn down facilities at 31 December 2019	4,304.2		216.9		96.4		588.6		634.9		2,767.4
Undrawn committed credit facilities	2,005.6

Summary of currency risk

	20191 £m		20181 £m
US dollar		240.5		278.1
Euro		153.0		211.4

Notes

1 Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

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Financial instruments (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

Text block [abstract]

Analysis of Financial Assets and Liabilities

An analysis of the Group’s financial assets and liabilities by accounting classification is set out below:

	Held at fair value through profit or loss			Held at fair  value through other comprehensive income		Amortised cost			Carrying value
	£m					£m			£m
2019
Other investments		255.7			242.6		–			498.3
Cash and short-term deposits1		–			–		11,305.7			11,305.7
Bank overdrafts, bonds and bank loans1		–			–		(8,798.0	)		(8,798.0	)
Bonds and bank loans		–			–		(4,047.3	)		(4,047.3	)
Trade and other receivables: amounts falling due within one year		–			–		7,530.8			7,530.8
Trade and other receivables: amounts falling due after more than one year		–			–		59.3			59.3
Trade and other payables: amounts falling due within one year		–			–		(10,191.6	)		(10,191.6	)
Trade and other payables: amounts falling due after more than one year		–			–		(2.6	)		(2.6	)
Derivative assets		1.4			–		–			1.4
Derivative liabilities2		(22.7	)		–		–			(22.7	)
Payments due to vendors (earnout agreements) (note 20)2		(243.7	)		–		–			(243.7	)
Liabilities in respect of put options2		(204.5	)		–		–			(204.5	)
		(213.8	)		242.6		(4,143.7	)		(4,114.9	)

	Derivatives in designated hedge relationships		Held at fair value through profit or loss			Held at fair  value through other comprehensive income		Amortised cost			Carrying value
	£m		£m			£m		£m			£m
2018
Other investments		–		319.6			347.1		–			666.7
Cash and short-term deposits1		–		–			–		11,065.8			11,065.8
Bank overdrafts, bonds and bank loans1		–		–			–		(9,447.7	)		(9,447.7	)
Bonds and bank loans		–		–			–		(5,634.8	)		(5,634.8	)
Trade and other receivables: amounts falling due within one year		–		–			–		8,545.6			8,545.6
Trade and other receivables: amounts falling due after more than one year		–		–			–		68.3			68.3
Trade and other payables: amounts falling due within one year		–		–			–		(10,637.3	)		(10,637.3	)
Trade and other payables: amounts falling due after more than one year		–		–			–		(8.4	)		(8.4	)
Derivative assets		–		9.7			–		–			9.7
Derivative liabilities		(14.2)		(2.6	)		–		–			(16.8	)
Payments due to vendors (earnout agreements) (note 20)2		–		(400.8	)		–		–			(400.8	)
Liabilities in respect of put options2		–		(208.0	)		–		–			(208.0	)
		(14.2)		(282.1	)		347.1		(6,048.5	)		(5,997.7	)

Notes

1  Figures have been restated to be in accordance with IAS 32 Financial Instruments: Presentation, as described in the accounting policies.

2  Figures have been restated to be in accordance with IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, as described in the accounting policies.

Analysis of Financial Instruments Measured at Fair Value

The following table provides an analysis of financial instruments that are measured subsequent to initial recognition at fair value, grouped into levels 1 to 3 based on the degree to which the fair value is observable:

Level 1 fair value measurements are those derived from quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities;

Level 2 fair value measurements are those derived from inputs other than quoted prices included within level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly (ie as prices) or indirectly (ie derived from prices);

Level 3 fair value measurements are those derived from valuation techniques that include inputs for the asset or liability that are not based on observable market data (unobservable inputs).

	Level 1 £m		Level  21 £m			Level  31 £m
2019
Held at fair value through profit or loss
Other investments		–		–			255.7
Derivative assets		–		1.4			–
Derivative liabilities		–		(22.7	)		–
Payments due to vendors (earnout agreements) (note 20)		–		–			(243.7	)
Liabilities in respect of put options		–		–			(204.5	)
Held at fair value through other comprehensive income
Other investments		42.2		–			200.4

	Level 1 £m		Level 2 £m			Level 3 £m
2018
Derivatives in designated hedge relationships
Derivative liabilities		–		(14.2	)		–
Held at fair value through profit or loss
Other investments		0.4		–			319.2
Derivative assets		–		1.3			–
Derivative liabilities		–		(2.6	)		–
Payments due to vendors (earnout agreements) (note 20)		–		–			(400.8	)
Liabilities in respect of put options		–		–			(208.0	)
Held at fair value through other comprehensive income
Other investments		128.1		–			219.0

Note

1  Figures have been restated to be in accordance with IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, as described in the accounting policies

There have been no transfers between these levels in the years presented.

Reconciliation of level 3 fair value measurements1:

	Liabilities in respect of put options £m2			Other investments £m
1 January 2018		(221.7	)		820.3
Gains recognised in the income statement		26.0			61.1
Losses recognised in other comprehensive income		–			(140.6	)
Exchange adjustments		1.1			–
Additions		(37.4	)		35.0
Disposals		–			(237.3	)
Cancellations		2.2			–
Reclassifications from other investments to interests in associates		–			(0.3	)
Settlements		21.8			–
31 December 2018		(208.0	)		538.2
(Losses)/gains recognised in the income statement		(30.1	)		9.1
Losses recognised in other comprehensive income		–			(55.4	)
Exchange adjustments		6.9			–
Additions		(34.8	)		18.2
Disposals		–			(53.4	)
Cancellations		9.7			–
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		31.0			(0.6	)
Settlements		20.8			–
31 December 2019		(204.5	)		456.1

Notes

1  The reconciliation of payments due to vendors (earnout agreements) is presented in note 20.

2  Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

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Authorised and issued share capital (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

Statement [LineItems]

Summary of Authorised and Issued Share Capital

	Equity ordinary shares			Nominal value £m
Authorised
At 1 January 2017		1,750,000,000			175.0
At 31 December 2017		1,750,000,000			175.0
At 31 December 2018		1,750,000,000			175.0
At 31 December 2019		1,750,000,000			175.0
Issued and fully paid
At 1 January 2017		1,331,880,730			133.2
Exercise of share options		630,822			0.1
At 31 December 2017		1,332,511,552			133.3
Exercise of share options		166,675			-
At 31 December 2018		1,332,678,227			133.3
Exercise of share options		75,625			-
Share cancellations		(4,586,039	)		(0.5	)
At 31 December 2019		1,328,167,813			132.8

Movements and Weighted-average Exercise Price for Options Granted

Movements on options granted (represented in ordinary shares)

	1 January 2019		Granted		Exercised			Lapsed			Outstanding 31 December 2019		Exercisable 31 December 2019
WPP		6,741		–		–			–			6,741		6,741
WWOP		5,520,774		–		(71,475	)		(747,375	)		4,701,924		4,701,924
WSOP		18,691,100		4,615,000		(4,150	)		(2,904,800	)		20,397,150		5,249,075
		24,218,615		4,615,000		(75,625	)		(3,652,175	)		25,105,815		9,957,740

Weighted-average exercise price for options over

	1 January 2019		Granted		Exercised		Lapsed		Outstanding 31 December 2019		Exercisable 31 December 2019
Ordinary shares (£)
WPP		9.355		–		–		–		9.355		9.355
WWOP		12.290		–		6.888		12.027		12.421		12.421
WSOP		12.753		9.600		8.372		12.405		12.121		16.164
ADRs ($)
WWOP		95.453		–		47.388		91.622		96.744		96.744
WSOP		84.893		62.590		53.140		82.290		79.798		115.940

Range of Exercise Prices of Options

Options over ordinary shares

Outstanding

Range of exercise prices £	Weighted average exercise price £		Weighted average contractual life Months
6.268 – 17.055		12.171		90

Options over ADRs

Outstanding

Range of exercise prices $	Weighted average exercise price $		Weighted average contractual life Months
49.230 – 115.940		83.488		89

Weighted Average Fair Value of Options Granted and Weighted Average Assumptions

The weighted average fair value of options granted in the year calculated using the Black-Scholes model was as follows:

	2019		2018		2017
Fair value of UK options (shares)		117.0p		107.0p		112.0p
Fair value of US options (ADRs)		$8.49		$8.09		$9.40
Weighted average assumptions:
UK Risk-free interest rate		0.57%		0.78%		0.57%
US Risk-free interest rate		1.61%		2.74%		2.05%
Expected life (months)		48		48		48
Expected volatility		24%		24%		17%
Dividend yield		3.8%		3.5%		2.9%

WPP Executive Share Option Scheme [member]

Statement [LineItems]

Options Granted

As at 31 December 2019, unexercised options over ordinary shares of 6,741 have been granted under the WPP Executive Share Option Scheme as follows:

Number of ordinary shares under option	Exercise price per share (£)		Exercise dates
3,696		8.333		2015 - 2022
3,045		10.595		2016 - 2023

WPP Worldwide Share Ownership Program [member]

Statement [LineItems]

Options Granted

As at 31 December 2019, unexercised options over ordinary shares of 2,757,654 and unexercised options over ADRs of 388,854 have been granted under the WPP Worldwide Share Ownership Programme as follows:

Number of ordinary shares under option	Exercise price per share (£)		Exercise dates
82,650		6.268		2014 - 2021
36,500		6.268		2015 - 2021
53,150		7.113		2013 - 2020
25,750		7.113		2014 - 2020
194,079		8.458		2015 - 2022
43,000		13.145		2017 - 2021
1,739,050		13.145		2017 - 2024
4,375		13.145		2018 - 2024
564,975		13.505		2016 - 2023
14,125		13.505		2017 - 2023

Number of ADRs under option	Exercise price per ADR ($)		Exercise dates
24,550		49.230		2014 - 2021
16,530		56.560		2013 - 2020
39,184		67.490		2015 - 2022
166,655		102.670		2017 - 2024
141,935		110.760		2016 - 2023

WPP Share Option Plan 2015 [member]

Statement [LineItems]

Options Granted

As at 31 December 2019, unexercised options over ordinary shares of 13,413,425 and unexercised options over ADRs of 1,396,745 have been granted under the WPP Worldwide Share Ownership Programme as follows:

Number of ordinary shares under option	Exercise price per share (£)		Exercise dates
18,250		8.372		2021 - 2025
3,406,900		8.372		2021 - 2028
15,500		9.600		2022 - 2026
2,863,975		9.600		2022 - 2029
19,250		13.085		2020 - 2024
2,785,100		13.085		2020 - 2027
55,500		15.150		2018 - 2022
1,952,200		15.150		2018 - 2025
5,375		15.150		2019 - 2025
12,375		17.055		2019 - 2023
2,279,000		17.055		2019 - 2026

Number of ADRs under option	Exercise price per ADR ($)		Exercise dates
347,660		53.140		2021 - 2028
347,105		62.590		2022 - 2029
276,790		88.260		2020 - 2027
236,265		105.490		2020 - 2026
188,925		115.940		2018 - 2025

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Other reserves (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

Text block [abstract]

Summary of Other Reserves

Other reserves comprise the following:

	Capital redemption reserve £m		Equity reserve1 £m			Revaluation reserve £m			Translation reserve1 £m			Total other reserves £m
1 January 2017		2.7		(203.4	)		271.3			1,665.2			1,735.8
Exchange adjustments on foreign currency net investments		–		–			–			(640.1	)		(640.1	)
Gain on revaluation of available for sale investments		–		–			32.1			–			32.1
Recognition and remeasurement of financial instruments		–		(8.7	)		–			–			(8.7	)
31 December 2017		2.7		(212.1	)		303.4			1,025.1			1,119.1
Exchange adjustments on foreign currency net investments		–		–			–			275.0			275.0
Accounting policy change (IFRS 9)1		–		–			(303.4	)		(104.0	)		(407.4	)
Recognition and remeasurement of financial instruments		–		(24.3	)		–			–			(24.3	)
31 December 2018		2.7		(236.4	)		–			1,196.1			962.4
Exchange adjustments on foreign currency net investments		–		–			–			(607.1	)		(607.1	)
Exchange adjustments recycled to the income statement on disposal of discontinued operations		–		–			–			(284.0	)		(284.0	)
Share cancellations		0.5		–			–			–			0.5
Recognition and remeasurement of financial instruments		–		10.6			–			–			10.6
Share purchases – close period commitments		–		(252.3	)		–			–			(252.3	)
31 December 2019		3.2		(478.1	)		–			305.0			(169.9	)

Notes

1  Figures have been restated to be in accordance with IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, as described in the accounting policies.

2  Due to the adoption of IFRS 9, cumulative gains and losses on revaluation of available for sale investments have been transferred to retained earnings.

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Acquisitions (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

Text block [abstract]

Book Values of Identifiable Assets and Liabilities Acquired and Their Fair Value

Acquisitions in 2018

The Group acquired a number of subsidiaries in the year. The following table sets out the book values of the identifiable assets and liabilities acquired and their fair value to the Group. The fair value adjustments for certain acquisitions have been determined provisionally at the balance sheet date.

	Book value at acquisition £m			Fair value adjustments £m			Fair value to Group £m
Intangible assets		–			40.3			40.3
Property, plant and equipment		3.1			–			3.1
Cash		5.0			–			5.0
Trade receivables due within one year		43.7			–			43.7
Other current assets		20.3			–			20.3
Total assets		72.1			40.3			112.4
Current liabilities		(42.8	)		–			(42.8	)
Trade and other payables due after one year		(2.4	)		(13.5	)		(15.9	)
Deferred tax liabilities		–			(9.9	)		(9.9	)
Provisions		–			(0.4	)		(0.4	)
Total liabilities		(45.2	)		(23.8	)		(69.0	)
Net assets		26.9			16.5			43.4
Non-controlling interests								(6.3	)
Fair value of equity stake in associate undertakings before acquisition of controlling interest								(3.1	)
Goodwill								141.6
Consideration								175.6
Consideration satisfied by:
Cash								127.4
Payments due to vendors								48.2

Acquisitions in 2017

The Group acquired a number of subsidiaries in the year. The following table sets out the book values of the identifiable assets and liabilities acquired and their fair value to the Group. The fair value adjustments for certain acquisitions have been determined provisionally at the balance sheet date.

	Book value at acquisition £m			Fair value adjustments £m			Fair value to Group £m
Intangible assets		0.8			79.0			79.8
Property, plant and equipment		5.5			–			5.5
Cash		28.9			–			28.9
Trade receivables due within one year		74.4			–			74.4
Other current assets		20.1			–			20.1
Total assets		129.7			79.0			208.7
Current liabilities		(76.0	)		–			(76.0	)
Trade and other payables due after one year		(10.2	)		(20.5	)		(30.7	)
Deferred tax liabilities		–			(16.8	)		(16.8	)
Provisions		(0.1	)		(4.8	)		(4.9	)
Total liabilities		(86.3	)		(42.1	)		(128.4	)
Net assets		43.4			36.9			80.3
Non-controlling interests								(13.9	)
Fair value of equity stake in associate undertakings before acquisition of controlling interest								(5.7	)
Goodwill								314.3
Consideration								375.0
Consideration satisfied by:
Cash								213.7
Payments due to vendors								161.3

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Related party transactions (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

Disclosure of transactions between related parties [abstract]

Summary of related party transactions outstanding

The following amounts were outstanding at 31 December 2019:

	2019 £m
Amounts owed by related parties
Kantar		87.5
Other		87.5
		175.0
Amounts owed to related parties
Kantar		(36.5	)
Other		(49.6	)
		(86.1	)

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Reconciliation of operating profit to a headline operating profit (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

Text block [abstract]

Reconciliation of Operating Profit to a Headline Operating Profit

Reconciliation of operating profit to a headline operating profit:

Continuing operations:	2019 £m			20181,2 £m			20171 £m
Operating profit		1,295.9			1,245.3			1,577.9
Amortisation and impairment of acquired intangible assets		121.5			201.8			138.0
Goodwill impairment		47.7			176.5			27.1
Gains on disposal of investments and subsidiaries		(40.4	)		(237.9	)		(98.7	)
(Gains)/losses on remeasurement of equity interests arising from a change in scope of ownership		(0.4	)		(2.0	)		0.3
Investment write-downs		7.5			2.0			91.7
Litigation settlement		(16.8	)		–			–
Gain on sale of freehold property in New York		(7.9	)		–			–
Restructuring and transformation costs		153.5			265.5			56.8
Headline operating profit		1,560.6			1,651.2			1,793.1

Notes

1  Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies.

2  Figures have been restated as described in the accounting policies.

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Accounting policies - Schedule of Reconciliation about operating lease obligations (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2019	Jan. 01, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Disclosure of initial application of standards or interpretations [line items]
Operating lease commitments		£ 3,628.2
Short-term and low value leases not included in lease liabilities		(73.8)
Extension options reasonably certain to be exercised		115.1
Signed leases not yet commenced		(598.1)
Gross lease liabilities	£ 3,002.5
Effect of discounting	(752.8)
Lease liabilities	£ 2,249.7
Impact on Initial Application of IFRS16 [member]
Disclosure of initial application of standards or interpretations [line items]
Gross lease liabilities		3,071.4
Effect of discounting		(745.2)
Lease liabilities		£ 2,326.2	£ 2,326.2

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Accounting policies - Restatement - Additional Information (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018		Dec. 31, 2017
Disclosure of IAS 32 and IAS 39 Restatements [line items]
Increase in cash and short term deposits and bank overdrafts, bonds and bank loans		£ 8,336.7	£ 8,422.6		£ 9,459.6
Revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments	[1]	163.8	(76.3)	[2]	391.0	[2]
Stockholders equity period increase decrease		506.9
Increase decrease in fair value of liabilities of put option agreements with vendors current		0.0	0.0		0.0
Increase decrease in other reserves liability		0.0	0.0		0.0
Increase decrease in payments due to vendors (earnout agreements)		0.0	0.0		0.0
Increase decrease in goodwill		0.0	0.0		0.0
Increase decrease in goodwill impairment charges		0.0	0.0		0.0
Exchange adjustments on foreign currency net investments [member]
Disclosure of IAS 32 and IAS 39 Restatements [line items]
Increase decrease in exchange adjustments on foreign currency net investment due to changes in other reserves		0.0	0.0		0.0
Increase decrease in exchange adjustments on foreign currency net investment due to changes in goodwill		0.0	0.0		0.0
Revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments [member]
Disclosure of IAS 32 and IAS 39 Restatements [line items]
Increase decrease in fair value of liabilities of put option agreements with vendors current		0.0	0.0		0.0
Increase decrease in payments due to vendors (earnout agreements)		0.0	0.0		0.0
Reclassification of exchange adjustments on foreign currency net investments [member]
Disclosure of IAS 32 and IAS 39 Restatements [line items]
Revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments		£ 245.7	£ 205.1		£ 194.6

[1] Figures have been restated to be in accordance with IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, as described in the accounting policies.

[2] Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies.

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Accounting policies - IFRS 16 Implementation - Additional Information (Detail) - GBP (£) £ / shares in Units, £ in Millions			12 Months Ended
		Jan. 01, 2019	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018		Dec. 31, 2017	[2]
Disclosure of initial application of standards or interpretations [line items]
Right-of-use assets	[1]		£ 1,734.5
Lease liabilities			2,249.7
Change in operating profit			£ 61.0
Weighted average discount rate		5.40%
Retained earnings		£ 128.9
Deferred tax assets		27.8
Diluted earnings per share	[1]		£ 0.679	£ 0.654	[2]	£ 1.539
Impact on Initial Application of IFRS16 [member]
Disclosure of initial application of standards or interpretations [line items]
Right-of-use assets		1,895.1		£ 1,895.1
Lease liabilities		2,326.2		£ 2,326.2
Reduction in other creditors		233.5
Reduction in property provisions		£ 68.7
Diluted earnings per share			£ (0.018)

[1] Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

[2] Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies.

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Accounting Policies - Trade receivables and work in progress - Additional Information (Detail)	Dec. 31, 2019
181 days - 1 year [member]
Disclosure of initial application of standards or interpretations [line items]
Percentage of trade receivables for which loss allowance required	50.00%
Over 1 year [member]
Disclosure of initial application of standards or interpretations [line items]
Percentage of trade receivables for which loss allowance required	100.00%

XML

Accounting policies - Summary of Estimated Useful Life of Intangible Assets (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Bottom of range [member] | Brand names [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]
Intangible assets, estimated useful life	10 years
Bottom of range [member] | Customer-related intangibles [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]
Intangible assets, estimated useful life	3 years
Bottom of range [member] | Other proprietary tools [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]
Intangible assets, estimated useful life	3 years
Bottom of range [member] | Other [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]
Intangible assets, estimated useful life	3 years
Top of range [member] | Brand names [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]
Intangible assets, estimated useful life	20 years
Top of range [member] | Customer-related intangibles [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]
Intangible assets, estimated useful life	10 years
Top of range [member] | Other proprietary tools [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]
Intangible assets, estimated useful life	10 years
Top of range [member] | Other [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]
Intangible assets, estimated useful life	5 years

XML

Accounting policies - Summary of Estimated Useful Life of Property, Plant and Equipment (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Freehold buildings [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Property, plant and equipment, estimated useful life	50 years
Leasehold land and buildings [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Property, plant and equipment, estimated useful life	over the term of the lease or life of the asset, if shorter.
Bottom of range [member] | Fixtures, fittings and equipment [Member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Property, plant and equipment, estimated useful life	3 years
Bottom of range [member] | Computer equipment [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Property, plant and equipment, estimated useful life	3 years
Top of range [member] | Fixtures, fittings and equipment [Member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Property, plant and equipment, estimated useful life	10 years
Top of range [member] | Computer equipment [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Property, plant and equipment, estimated useful life	5 years

XML

Accounting policies - Hyperinflation in Argentina - Additional Information (Detail) - Argentina [Member] - GBP (£) £ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Disclosure of Hyperinflationary Reporting [line items]
Increase in goodwill due to hyperinflation	£ 41.0	£ 105.8
Increase in other intangibles due to hyperinflation	£ 7.1	£ 19.5

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Segment information - Contributions by Reportable Segments (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018		Dec. 31, 2017
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Revenue	[1]	£ 13,234.1	£ 13,046.7	[2],[3]	£ 13,146.4	[2],[3]
Headline PBIT (as above)	[4]	1,560.6	1,651.2	[3]	1,793.1	[3]
Share-based payments		66.0	78.3	[3]	98.3	[3]
Capital additions	[5]	329.8	314.0	[3]	271.0
Depreciation and amortisation	[6]	508.3	209.3	[3]	209.1
Goodwill impairment	[7]	47.7	176.5	[3]	27.1	[3]
Share of results of associates	[2]	14.7	30.5	[3]	98.0	[3]
Interests in associates and joint ventures	[2]	813.0	796.8		1,065.2
Global integrated agencies [Member]
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Revenue	[1],[8]	10,205.2	9,930.7	[9]	10,028.6	[9]
Revenue less pass-through costs	[8],[10]	8,108.1	8,070.8	[9]	8,315.5	[9]
Headline PBIT (as above)	[4],[8]	£ 1,219.5	£ 1,228.2	[9]	£ 1,321.3	[9]
Headline PBIT margin	[8],[11]	15.00%	15.20%	[9]	15.90%	[9]
Share-based payments		£ 54.3	£ 59.5	[3]	£ 77.8	[3]
Capital additions	[5]	265.6	255.6	[3]	214.3	[3]
Depreciation and amortisation	[6]	392.8	159.1	[3]	157.1	[3]
Goodwill impairment	[12]	4.8	142.8		0.0
Share of results of associates		17.0	25.4	[3]	16.2	[3]
Interests in associates and joint ventures		164.2	175.1	[3]	179.9	[3]
Public relations [member]
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Revenue	[1],[13]	956.5	931.7	[9]	915.0	[9]
Revenue less pass-through costs	[10],[13]	898.0	879.9	[9]	864.3	[9]
Headline PBIT (as above)	[4],[13]	£ 140.6	£ 139.2	[9]	£ 123.5	[9]
Headline PBIT margin	[11],[13]	15.70%	15.80%	[9]	14.30%	[9]
Share-based payments		£ 4.6	£ 7.1	[3]	£ 7.2	[3]
Capital additions	[5]	17.5	12.5	[3]	9.5	[3]
Depreciation and amortisation	[6]	31.5	10.8	[3]	9.8	[3]
Goodwill impairment	[12]	0.0	0.0		7.5
Share of results of associates		(0.3)	1.3	[3]	0.9	[3]
Interests in associates and joint ventures		5.5	6.2	[3]	5.6	[3]
Specialist agencies [Member]
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Revenue	[1],[14]	2,072.4	2,184.3	[9]	2,202.8	[9]
Revenue less pass-through costs	[10],[14]	1,840.4	1,925.0	[9]	1,964.3	[9]
Headline PBIT (as above)	[4],[14]	£ 200.5	£ 283.8	[9]	£ 348.3	[9]
Headline PBIT margin	[11],[14]	10.90%	14.70%	[9]	17.70%	[9]
Share-based payments	[15]	£ 7.1	£ 11.7	[3]	£ 13.3	[3]
Capital additions	[5],[15]	46.7	45.9	[3]	47.2	[3]
Depreciation and amortisation	[6],[15]	84.0	39.4	[3]	42.2	[3]
Goodwill impairment	[12]	42.9	33.7		19.6
Share of results of associates	[15]	(2.0)	3.8	[3]	80.9	[3]
Interests in associates and joint ventures	[15]	£ 643.3	£ 615.5	[3]	£ 879.7	[3]

[1] Intersegment sales have not been separately disclosed as they are not material.

[2] Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

[3] Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies.

[4] A reconciliation from operating profit to headline operating profit is provided in note 32.

[5] Capital additions include purchases of property, plant and equipment and other intangible assets (including capitalised computer software).

[6] Depreciation of property, plant and equipment, depreciation of right-of-use assets and amortisation of other intangible assets.

[7] Figures in 2018 have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

[8] Global Integrated Agencies includes all of Grey, GroupM, Hogarth, Ogilvy, VMLY&R and Wunderman Thompson.

[9] Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies. As a result Data Investment Management is now excluded from the segment analysis.

[10] Revenue less pass-through costs is revenue less media, data collection and other pass-through costs. Pass-through costs comprise fees paid to external suppliers where they are engaged to perform part or all of a specific project and are changed directly to clients, predominantly media and data collection costs. See note 3 to the consolidated financial statements for more details of the pass-through costs.

[11] Headline operating profit margin is calculated as headline operating profit (defined above) as a percentage of revenue less pass-through costs.

[12] Goodwill impairment figures in 2018 have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

[13] Public Relations represents the Group’s specialists in this area and remains as previously reported but excludes Ogilvy PR which now sits within Global Integrated Agencies as part of Ogilvy.

[14] Specialist Agencies represent the Group’s other agencies that specialise in certain areas, whether by region or range of services.

[15] Specialist Agencies includes the Kantar associate and amounts previously reported under the Data Investment Management segment.

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Segment information - Contributions by Geographical Area (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018		Dec. 31, 2017	[3]
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Revenue	[1]	£ 13,234.1	£ 13,046.7	[2],[3]	£ 13,146.4	[2]
Headline PBIT	[4]	1,560.6	1,651.2	[3]	1,793.1
Non-current assets	[5]	15,638.8	17,692.7
North America [member]
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Revenue	[1],[6]	4,854.7	4,851.7	[3]	5,083.5
Revenue less pass-through costs	[6],[7]	4,034.3	4,059.7	[3]	4,335.2
Headline PBIT	[4],[6]	£ 662.0	£ 710.6	[3]	£ 816.3
Headline PBIT margin	[8]	16.40%	17.50%	[3]	18.80%
Non-current assets	[5],[9]	£ 6,812.6	£ 7,247.0
United Kingdom [member]
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Revenue	[1]	1,797.1	1,785.6	[3]	£ 1,737.4
Revenue less pass-through costs	[7]	1,390.1	1,393.8	[3]	1,390.0
Headline PBIT	[4]	£ 188.5	£ 179.6	[3]	£ 218.1
Headline PBIT margin	[8]	13.60%	12.90%	[3]	15.70%
Non-current assets	[5]	£ 1,743.3	£ 2,067.9
Western Continental Europe [member]
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Revenue	[1]	2,628.8	2,589.6	[3]	£ 2,455.7
Revenue less pass-through costs	[7]	2,176.4	2,182.9	[3]	2,063.7
Headline PBIT	[4]	£ 261.5	£ 289.4	[3]	£ 249.8
Headline PBIT margin	[8]	12.00%	13.30%	[3]	12.10%
Non-current assets	[5]	£ 3,417.2	£ 4,371.9
Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe [member]
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Revenue	[1]	3,953.5	3,819.8	[3]	£ 3,869.8
Revenue less pass-through costs	[7]	3,245.7	3,239.3	[3]	3,355.0
Headline PBIT	[4]	£ 448.6	£ 471.6	[3]	£ 508.9
Headline PBIT margin	[8]	13.80%	14.60%	[3]	15.20%
Non-current assets	[5]	£ 3,665.7	£ 4,005.9

[1] Intersegment sales have not been separately disclosed as they are not material.

[2] Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

[3] Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies.

[4] A reconciliation from operating profit to headline operating profit is provided in note 32.

[5] Non-current assets excluding financial instruments and deferred tax.

[6] North America includes the US with revenue of £4,576.5 million (2018: £4,576.1 million, 2017: £4,782.0 million), revenue less pass-through costs of £3,806.3 million (2018: £3,836.0 million, 2017: £4,089.9 million) and headline operating profit of £620.6 million (2018: £674.4 million, 2017: £773.5 million).

[7] Revenue less pass-through costs is revenue less media, data collection and other pass-through costs. Pass-through costs comprise fees paid to external suppliers where they are engaged to perform part or all of a specific project and are changed directly to clients, predominantly media and data collection costs. See note 3 to the consolidated financial statements for more details of the pass-through costs.

[8] Headline operating profit margin is calculated as headline operating profit (defined above) as a percentage of revenue less pass-through costs.

[9] North America includes the United States with non-current assets of £6,373.9 million (2018: £6,791.9 million).

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Segment information - Contributions by Geographical Area (Parenthetical) (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018		Dec. 31, 2017
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Revenue	[1]	£ 13,234.1	£ 13,046.7	[2],[3]	£ 13,146.4	[2],[3]
Headline PBIT	[4]	1,560.6	1,651.2	[3]	1,793.1	[3]
Non-current assets	[5]	15,638.8	17,692.7
United States [member]
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Revenue		4,576.5	4,576.1		4,782.0
Revenue less pass-through costs		3,806.3	3,836.0		4,089.9
Headline PBIT		620.6	674.4		£ 773.5
Non-current assets		£ 6,354.7	£ 6,770.6

[1] Intersegment sales have not been separately disclosed as they are not material.

[2] Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

[3] Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies.

[4] A reconciliation from operating profit to headline operating profit is provided in note 32.

[5] Non-current assets excluding financial instruments and deferred tax.

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Costs of services and general and administrative costs - Summary of Operating Costs (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018		Dec. 31, 2017
Analysis of income and expense [abstract]
Costs of services	[1]	£ 10,825.1	£ 10,559.1	[2]	£ 10,481.6	[2]
General and administrative costs	[1]	1,113.1	1,242.3	[2]	1,086.9	[2]
Costs of services and general and administrative costs		11,938.2	11,801.4		11,568.5
Costs of services and general and administrative costs include:
Staff costs (note 5)		7,090.6	6,950.6	[2]	7,065.1	[2]
Establishment costs		672.9	756.6		769.5
Media pass-through costs		1,656.2	1,458.0		1,429.4
Other costs of services and general and administrative costs	[3]	2,518.5	2,636.2		2,304.5
Goodwill impairment (note 14)	[4]	47.7	176.5	[2]	27.1	[2]
Investment write-downs		7.5	2.0		91.7
Restructuring and transformation costs		153.5	265.5		56.8
Litigation settlement		(16.8)
Gain on sale of freehold property in New York	[1]	(7.9)
Amortisation and impairment of acquired intangible assets		121.5	201.8		138.0
Amortisation of other intangible assets		21.2	20.7		20.1
Depreciation of property, plant and equipment		185.5	188.6		189.0
Depreciation of right-of-use assets		301.6
Losses on sale of property, plant and equipment		3.2	0.6		1.2
Gains on disposal of investments and subsidiaries		(40.4)	(237.9)		(98.7)
(Gains)/losses on remeasurement of equity interests arising from a change in scope of ownership		(0.4)	(2.0)		0.3
Net foreign exchange losses/(gains)		6.1	£ (13.0)		£ 8.0
Short-term lease expense		83.8
Low-value lease expense		£ 2.9

[1] Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

[2] Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies.

[3] Other costs of services and general and administrative costs include £731.4 million (2018: £713.0 million, 2017: £573.1 million) of other pass-through costs.

[4] Figures in 2018 have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

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Costs of services and general and administrative costs - Summary of Operating Costs (Parenthetical) (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Analysis of income and expense [abstract]
Other pass-through costs	£ 731.4	£ 713.0	£ 573.1

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Costs of services and general and administrative costs - Additional Information (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions		3 Months Ended	6 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2018	Jun. 30, 2018	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018		Dec. 31, 2017
Disclosure Of Information About Operating Cost [line items]
Credits relating to the release of excess provisions and other balances				£ 26.9	£ 25.6		£ 40.9
Goodwill impairment	[1]			47.7	176.5	[2]	27.1	[2]
Investment write-downs				7.5	2.0		91.7
Restructuring and transformation costs				153.5	265.5		56.8
Gains on disposal of investments and subsidiaries				40.4	237.9		98.7
Litigation settlement				£ 16.8
Lease Term				15 years
Gain on sale of freehold property in New York	[3]			£ 7.9
Proceeds from sale of freehold property				159.0
Impairment charge on intangible assets				26.5	89.1		6.0
Investor day in december two thousand and eighteen restructuring and transformation plan [member]
Disclosure Of Information About Operating Cost [line items]
Restructuring and transformation costs		£ 212.3
Restructuring and transformation costs in relation to the continuing restructuring plan				121.1
Transformation costs				32.4
Costs arising from a structural assessment of operations [member]
Disclosure Of Information About Operating Cost [line items]
Restructuring and transformation costs			£ 53.2	116.3	179.7		33.7
Transformation cost [member]
Disclosure Of Information About Operating Cost [line items]
Restructuring and transformation costs				37.2	85.8
IT services and infrastructure cost [member]
Disclosure Of Information About Operating Cost [line items]
Restructuring and transformation costs							12.8
comScore Inc. [member]
Disclosure Of Information About Operating Cost [line items]
Investment write-downs							53.1
Litigation settlement				16.8
Globant S.A. [member]
Disclosure Of Information About Operating Cost [line items]
Gains on disposal of investments and subsidiaries				28.6	185.3
Asatsu-DK Inc. [member]
Disclosure Of Information About Operating Cost [line items]
Gains on disposal of investments and subsidiaries							92.3
VMLY&R [member]
Disclosure Of Information About Operating Cost [line items]
Goodwill impairment					142.8
Other business [member]
Disclosure Of Information About Operating Cost [line items]
Goodwill impairment				£ 47.7	£ 176.5		£ 27.1

[1] Figures in 2018 have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

[2] Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies.

[3] Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

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Costs of services and general and administrative costs - Auditor's Remuneration (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018		Dec. 31, 2017
Disclosure Of Information About Operating Cost [line items]
Other services		£ 5.0	£ 4.2		£ 4.0
Fees payable to the auditors pursuant to legislation		34.5	30.8		26.1
Total non-audit fees		8.2	4.8		4.8
Total fees		42.7	35.6		30.9
Advisory services [member]
Disclosure Of Information About Operating Cost [line items]
Auditors' remuneration for tax services		0.0			0.1
Compliance services [member]
Disclosure Of Information About Operating Cost [line items]
Auditors' remuneration for tax services		0.0	0.1		0.1
Other services [member]
Disclosure Of Information About Operating Cost [line items]
Other services	[1]	8.2	4.7		4.6
WPP plc [member]
Disclosure Of Information About Operating Cost [line items]
Auditors' remuneration for audit services		1.5	1.4		1.4
Subsidiaries [member]
Disclosure Of Information About Operating Cost [line items]
Auditors' remuneration for audit services		£ 28.0	£ 25.2	[1]	£ 20.7

[1] Includes a true-up of £3.5 million.

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Costs of services and general and administrative costs - Auditor's Remuneration (Detail) (Parenthetical) £ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019 GBP (£)
Other Services [member]
Disclosure Of Information About Operating Cost [line items]
Auditors remuneration includes true up	£ 3.5

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Share of results of associates - Summary of Share of Results of Associates (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2019		Dec. 31, 2018	[2]	Dec. 31, 2017	[2]
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Share of profit loss of associates accounted for using equity method	[1]	£ 14.7		£ 30.5		£ 98.0
Continuing Operation one [Member]
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Share of profit before interest and taxation		99.2	[3]	110.8		129.7
Share of exceptional (losses)/gains		(47.8)	[3]	(41.5)		0.6
Share of interest and non-controlling interests		(19.4)	[3]	(15.1)		(12.6)
Share of taxation		(17.3)	[3]	(23.7)		(19.7)
Share of profit loss of associates accounted for using equity method		£ 14.7	[3]	£ 30.5		£ 98.0

[1] Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

[2] Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies.

[3] From 5 December 2019 approximately 90% of the Kantar business is treated as a 40% associate following the completion of the transaction outlined in note 12.

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Share of results of associates - Summary of Share of Results of Associates (Parenthetical) (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Percentage of Ownership After Sale	40.00%
Kantar [member]
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Percentage of Kantar business treated as an associate after sale	90.00%

XML

Our people - Additional Information (Detail) £ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019 GBP (£) Employees	Dec. 31, 2018 GBP (£) Employees	Dec. 31, 2017 GBP (£) Employees
Disclosure of our people [line items]
Average number of staff | Employees	132,823	133,903	134,428
Staff numbers at the end of period | Employees	106,786	134,281	134,413
Share-based incentive plans in respect of key management personnel	£ 2.0	£ 2.0	£ 12.3
Total compensation received by key management personnel	£ 4.7	6.2	17.8
Compensation received by key management personnel in the form of pension contributions		£ 0.4	£ 0.7
Leadership Equity Acquisition Plan III [member]
Disclosure of our people [line items]
LEAP awards vesting performance period	5 years	5 years	5 years

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Our people - Geographical Distribution of staff (Detail) - Employees	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Average number of staff	132,823	133,903	134,428
North America [member]
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Average number of staff	25,008	25,990	27,399
United Kingdom [member]
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Average number of staff	14,192	14,331	14,197
Western Continental Europe [member]
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Average number of staff	26,973	26,825	25,700
Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe [member]
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Average number of staff	66,650	66,757	67,132

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Our people - Reportable Segment Distribution of Staff (Detail) - Employees	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Average number of staff	132,823	133,903	134,428
Global Integrated Agencies [member]
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Average number of staff	82,295	83,015	81,537
Data investment management [member]
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Average number of staff	26,325	27,813	28,014
Public relations [member]
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Average number of staff	6,890	6,891	6,899
Specialist agencies [member]
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Average number of staff	17,313	16,184	17,978

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Our people - Staffing Costs (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	[1]	Dec. 31, 2017	[1]
Disclosure of staff costs [Line Items]
Wages and salaries		£ 4,946.2	£ 4,828.0		£ 4,937.5
Cash-based incentive plans		227.6	233.0		196.5
Share-based incentive plans		66.0	78.3		98.3
Social security costs		591.7	579.0		580.8
Pension costs		169.7	160.9		161.3
Severance		42.6	30.0		36.8
Other staff costs	[2]	1,046.8	1,041.4		1,053.9
Staffing costs		£ 7,090.6	£ 6,950.6		£ 7,065.1

[1] Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies.

[2] Freelance and temporary staff costs are included in other staff costs.

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Finance and investment income, finance costs and revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments - Summary of Finance Income, Finance Costs and Revaluation and Retranslation of Financial Instruments (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018		Dec. 31, 2017
Statement [Line Items]
Income from equity investments	[1]	£ 18.3	£ 15.4		£ 16.8
Net interest expense on pension plans		3.5	3.6	[2]	5.4	[2]
Interest expense related to lease liabilities	[1]	105.1
Finance costs	[1]	359.1	279.1	[2]	261.9	[2]
Revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments	[3]	163.8	(76.3)	[2]	391.0	[2]
Continuing Operations [member]
Statement [Line Items]
Income from equity investments		18.3	15.2	[2]	16.7	[2]
Interest income		80.7	83.7	[2]	72.3	[2]
Finance income		99.0	98.9	[2]	89.0	[2]
Net interest expense on pension plans		3.5	3.6	[2]	5.4	[2]
Interest on other long-term employee benefits		3.9	3.5	[2]	3.3	[2]
Interest expense and similar charges	[4]	252.0	272.0	[2]	253.2	[2]
Interest expense related to lease liabilities	[4]	99.7
Finance costs		359.1	279.1	[2]	261.9	[2]
Movements in fair value of treasury instruments	[3]	0.4	(11.0)	[2]	0.4	[2]
Premium on the early repayment of bonds	[3]	(63.4)
Revaluation of investments held at fair value through profit or loss	[3]	9.1	67.8	[2]
Revaluation of put options over non-controlling interests	[3]	(24.3)	25.9	[2]	39.5	[2]
Revaluation of payments due to vendors (earnout agreements)	[3]	(3.7)	46.1	[2]	156.5	[2]
Revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments	[3]	£ 245.7	£ (205.1)	[2]	£ 194.6	[2]

[1] Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

[2] Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies.

[3] Figures have been restated to be in accordance with IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, as described in the accounting policies.

[4] Interest expense and similar charges are payable on bank overdrafts, bonds and bank loans held at amortised cost.

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Finance and investment income, finance costs and revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments - Additional Information (Detail) € in Millions, £ in Millions, $ in Millions, $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2019 GBP (£)	Dec. 31, 2019 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2019 EUR (€)	Dec. 31, 2019 AUD ($)	Dec. 31, 2018 GBP (£)	Dec. 31, 2018 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2018 AUD ($)
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Borrowings | £	£ 4,272.9				£ 6,217.9
US revolving credit facilities [member] | Weighted average [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Borrowings		$ 72				$ 125
Average interest rate	1.11%	1.11%	1.11%	1.11%	0.96%	0.96%	0.96%
US commercial paper [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Borrowings		$ 0
US commercial paper [member] | Weighted average [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Borrowings		$ 41				$ 540
Average interest rate	2.46%	2.46%	2.46%	2.46%	2.28%	2.28%	2.28%
Australian New Zealand revolving credit facilities [member] | Weighted average [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Borrowings				$ 310			$ 439
Average interest rate	2.95%	2.95%	2.95%	2.95%	3.27%	3.27%	3.27%
Euro Commercial Paper Programme [Member] | Weighted average [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Borrowings | £	£ 255.0
Average interest rate	1.16%	1.16%	1.16%	1.16%	0.00%	0.00%	0.00%
US Dollar bonds [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Borrowings		$ 1,563
Average interest rate	4.06%	4.06%	4.06%	4.06%
Eurobonds [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Borrowings | €			€ 3,100
Average interest rate	1.82%	1.82%	1.82%	1.82%
Sterling bonds [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Borrowings | £	£ 400.0
Average interest rate	2.88%	2.88%	2.88%	2.88%

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Taxation - Additional Information (Detail)		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018		Dec. 31, 2017
Disclosure Of Income Taxes [line items]
Effective tax rate on profit before taxation	[1]	22.60%	25.10%	[2]	4.40%	[2]

[1] Profit before taxation has been restated to be in accordance with IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, as described in the accounting policies.

[2] Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies. As a result Data Investment Management is now excluded from the segment analysis.

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Taxation - Tax Charge (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	[1]	Dec. 31, 2017	[1]
Corporation tax
Current year		£ 423.0	£ 404.2		£ 383.0
Prior years		(63.4)	(108.1)		(97.2)
Corporation tax		359.6	296.1		285.8
Deferred tax
Current year		(78.3)	(41.5)		(207.4)
Prior years		(6.3)	1.4		4.6
Deferred tax		(84.6)	(40.1)		(202.8)
Tax charge	[2]	£ 275.0	£ 256.0	[3]	£ 83.0	[3]

[1] Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies.

[2] Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

[3] Profit before taxation has been restated to be in accordance with IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, as described in the accounting policies.

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Taxation - Tax Charge Reconciled to Profit Before Taxation (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018		Dec. 31, 2017
Reconciliation of accounting profit multiplied by applicable tax rates [abstract]
Profit before taxation	[1]	£ 1,214.3	£ 1,019.3	[2]	£ 1,894.0	[2]
Tax at the corporation tax rate of 19.0%	[1]	230.7	193.7	[3],[4]	364.6	[3],[4]
Tax effect of share of results of associates	[1]	(2.7)	(5.8)	[2]	(18.8)	[2]
Irrecoverable withholding taxes	[1]	44.7	48.9	[2]	31.6	[2]
Items that are not deductible/(taxable) in determining taxable profit	[1]	51.9	67.2	[2]	(39.0)	[2]
Effect of different tax rates in subsidiaries operating in other jurisdictions	[1]	77.1	71.2	[2]	95.2	[2]
US Transition Tax related to unremitted foreign earnings	[1],[2]		(4.6)		20.1
Effect of change in US tax rate on deferred tax balances	[1],[2]				(211.6)
Origination and reversal on unrecognised temporary differences	[1]	(3.4)	5.1	[2]	(18.9)	[2]
Tax losses not recognised or utilised in the year	[1]	13.2	19.9	[2]	32.5	[2]
Utilisation of tax losses not previously recognised	[1]	(42.7)	(25.5)	[2]	(10.4)	[2]
Recognition of temporary differences not previously recognised	[1]	(24.1)	(7.4)	[2]	(69.7)	[2]
Release of prior year provisions in relation to acquired businesses	[1]	(19.9)	(20.4)	[2]	(15.0)	[2]
Other prior year adjustments	[1]	(49.8)	(86.3)	[2]	(77.6)	[2]
Tax charge	[5]	£ 275.0	£ 256.0	[1],[4]	£ 83.0	[1],[4]
Effective tax rate on profit before tax	[1]	22.60%	25.10%	[2]	4.40%	[2]

[1] Profit before taxation has been restated to be in accordance with IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, as described in the accounting policies.

[2] Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies. As a result Data Investment Management is now excluded from the segment analysis.

[3] As the Group is subject to the tax rates of more than one country, it has chosen to present its reconciliation of the tax charge using the UK corporation tax rate of 19.0% (2018: 19.0%, 2017: 19.25%).

[4] Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies.

[5] Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

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Taxation - Tax Charge Reconciled to Profit Before Taxation (Parenthetical) (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Reconciliation of accounting profit multiplied by applicable tax rates [abstract]
UK corporation tax rate	19.00%	19.00%	19.25%

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Ordinary dividends - Summary of Ordinary Dividends (Detail) - GBP (£) £ / shares in Units, £ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Disclosure of Dividends [line items]
Amounts recognised as distributions to equity holders, per share	£ 0.6000	£ 0.6000	£ 0.5975
Amounts recognised as distributions to equity holders	£ 750.5	£ 747.4	£ 751.5
Proposed final dividend, per share	£ 0.3730
Previous period final amount [member]
Disclosure of Dividends [line items]
Amounts recognised as distributions to equity holders, per share	£ 0.3730	£ 0.3730	£ 0.3705
Amounts recognised as distributions to equity holders	£ 466.4	£ 464.6	£ 467.2
Interim period amount [member]
Disclosure of Dividends [line items]
Amounts recognised as distributions to equity holders, per share	£ 0.2270	£ 0.2270	£ 0.2270
Amounts recognised as distributions to equity holders	£ 284.1	£ 282.8	£ 284.3

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Earnings per share - Calculation of Basic and Diluted EPS (Detail) - GBP (£) £ / shares in Units, £ in Millions, shares in Millions		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018		Dec. 31, 2017
Earnings per share [abstract]
Weighted average shares used in basic EPS calculation		1,250.0	1,247.8		1,261.1
EPS	[1]	£ 0.685	£ 0.661	[2]	£ 1.557	[2]
Weighted average shares used in diluted EPS calculation		1,260.6	1,261.2		1,275.8
Diluted EPS	[1]	£ 0.679	£ 0.654	[2]	£ 1.539	[2]
Continuing Operation [member]
Earnings per share [abstract]
Earnings	[3],[4]	£ 860.1	£ 698.2		£ 1,726.6
Weighted average shares used in basic EPS calculation	[3]	1,250.0	1,247.8		1,261.1
EPS	[3]	£ 0.688	£ 0.560		£ 1.369
Diluted earnings	[3]	£ 860.1	£ 698.2		£ 1,726.6
Weighted average shares used in diluted EPS calculation	[3]	1,260.6	1,261.2		1,275.8
Diluted EPS	[3]	£ 0.682	£ 0.554		£ 1.353
Discontinued operations [member]
Earnings per share [abstract]
Earnings	[4]	£ (3.8)	£ 126.4		£ 237.1
Weighted average shares used in basic EPS calculation		1,250.0	1,247.8		1,261.1
EPS	[3]	£ (0.003)	£ 0.101		£ 0.188
Diluted earnings		£ (3.8)	£ 126.4		£ 237.1
Weighted average shares used in diluted EPS calculation		1,260.6	1,261.2		1,275.8
Diluted EPS	[3]	£ (0.003)	£ 0.1		£ 0.186
Continued and discontinued operations [member]
Earnings per share [abstract]
Earnings	[3],[4]	£ 856.3	£ 824.6		£ 1,963.7
Weighted average shares used in basic EPS calculation	[3]	1,250.0	1,247.8		1,261.1
EPS	[3]	£ 0.685	£ 0.661		£ 1.557
Diluted earnings	[3]	£ 856.3	£ 824.6		£ 1,963.7
Weighted average shares used in diluted EPS calculation	[3]	1,260.6	1,261.2		1,275.8
Diluted EPS	[3]	£ 0.679	£ 0.654		£ 1.539

[1] Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

[2] Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies.

[3] Earnings figures have been restated as described in the accounting policies.

[4] Earnings is equivalent to profit for the year attributable to equity holders of the parent.

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Earnings per share - Additional Information (Detail) - shares	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Earnings per share [line items]
Shares excluded from the computation of diluted earnings per share	19,300,000	16,900,000	8,200,000
Treasury shares [member]
Earnings per share [line items]
Ordinary shares in issue	70,787,730	70,854,553	62,578,938
Ordinary shares [member]
Earnings per share [line items]
Ordinary shares in issue	1,328,167,813	1,332,678,227	1,332,511,552

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Earnings per share - Reconciliation Between Shares Used in Calculating Basic and Diluted EPS (Detail) - shares shares in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Earnings per share [abstract]
Average shares used in basic EPS calculation	1,250.0	1,247.8	1,261.1
Dilutive share options outstanding	0.3	1.6	1.8
Other potentially issuable shares	10.3	11.8	12.9
Shares used in diluted EPS calculation	1,260.6	1,261.2	1,275.8

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Sources of finance - Summary of Equity and Debt Financing (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Analysis of changes in financing
Beginning balance	[1]	£ 9,784.3	£ 9,960.5	£ 9,812.2
Ordinary shares issued	[1]	0.6	1.2	6.4
Share cancellations	[1]	(47.7)
End of year, restated	[1]	8,415.8	9,784.3	9,960.5
Analysis of changes in financing
Beginning of year		6,217.9
Net decrease in drawings on bank loans and corporate bonds		(1,713.2)	(440.6)	599.6
End of year		4,272.9	6,217.9
Issued capital and share premium [member]
Analysis of changes in financing
Beginning balance		703.0	701.8
Ordinary shares issued		0.6	1.2
Share cancellations		(0.5)
End of year, restated		703.1	703.0	701.8
Debt financing [member]
Analysis of changes in financing
Beginning of year		6,217.9	6,481.3
Net decrease in drawings on bank loans and corporate bonds		(1,713.2)	(440.6)
Amortisation of financing costs included in debt		10.3	7.7
Changes in fair value due to hedging arrangements		14.3	(9.9)
Other movements		1.5	(0.2)
Exchange adjustments		(257.9)	179.6
End of year		£ 4,272.9	£ 6,217.9	£ 6,481.3

[1] Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

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Sources of finance - Additional Information (Detail) € in Millions, £ in Millions, $ in Millions, $ in Millions		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2019 GBP (£)	Dec. 31, 2019 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2019 EUR (€)	Dec. 31, 2019 AUD ($)	Dec. 31, 2018 GBP (£)	Dec. 31, 2018 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2017 GBP (£)	Dec. 31, 2016 GBP (£)
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Total equity | £	[1]	£ 8,415.8				£ 9,784.3		£ 9,960.5	£ 9,812.2
Total committed facilities available | £		6,309.8
Undrawn committed credit facility | £		2,005.6				2,074.7
Borrowings | £		4,272.9				6,217.9
Issued capital and share premium [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Total equity | £		703.1				£ 703.0		£ 701.8
US$ bonds due September 2022 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Total committed facilities available		£ 377.0	$ 500
Bonds interest rate		3.625%	3.625%	3.625%	3.625%
US$ bonds due September 2024 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Total committed facilities available		£ 565.5	$ 750
Bonds interest rate		3.75%	3.75%	3.75%	3.75%
US$ bonds due September 2042 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Total committed facilities available		£ 70.0	$ 93
Bonds interest rate		5.125%	5.125%	5.125%	5.125%
US$ bonds due November 2043 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Total committed facilities available		£ 165.8	$ 220
Bonds interest rate		5.625%	5.625%	5.625%	5.625%
Eurobonds (3m EURIBOR + 0.32%) due May 2020 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Total committed facilities available		£ 211.6		€ 250
Floating basis		3m EURIBOR
Adjustment to floating basis		0.32%	0.32%	0.32%	0.32%
Euro bonds due November 2023 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Total committed facilities available		£ 634.9		€ 750
Bonds interest rate		3.00%	3.00%	3.00%	3.00%
Euro bonds due September 2026 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Total committed facilities available		£ 634.9		€ 750
Bonds interest rate		2.25%	2.25%	2.25%	2.25%
Euro bonds due March 2030 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Total committed facilities available		£ 507.9		€ 600
Bonds interest rate		1.625%	1.625%	1.625%	1.625%
Eurobonds Due March 2025 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Total committed facilities available		£ 423.3		€ 500
Bonds interest rate		1.375%	1.375%	1.375%	1.375%
Eurobonds Due March 2022 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Total committed facilities available		£ 211.6		€ 250
Floating basis		3m EURIBOR
Adjustment to floating basis		0.45%	0.45%	0.45%	0.45%
Sterling bonds due September 2046 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Total committed facilities available | £		£ 400.0
Bonds interest rate		2.875%	2.875%	2.875%	2.875%
US revolving credit facilities [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Total committed facilities available			$ 2,500
US revolving credit facilities [member] | Weighted average [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Bonds interest rate		1.11%	1.11%	1.11%	1.11%	0.96%	0.96%
Borrowings			$ 72				$ 125
US revolving credit facilities [member] | Weighted average [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Borrowings averaged equivalent							$ 72
Australian revolving credit facilities due 2019 (prior to extension) [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Total committed facilities available					$ 150
Australian revolving credit facilities due 2020 (after extension) [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Total committed facilities available					150
Australian revolving credit facilities due 2021 (after reduction in December 2019) [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Total committed facilities available					270
Australian revolving credit facilities due 2021 (before reduction in December 2019) [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Total committed facilities available					370
Australian New Zealand revolving credit facilities [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Total committed facilities available					270
Borrowings averaged equivalent					$ 310
US revolving credit facilities march 2024 (prior to extension) [member] | Borrowings and financing [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Total committed facilities available			2,500
US commercial paper [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Borrowings			$ 0
US commercial paper [member] | Weighted average [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Bonds interest rate		2.46%	2.46%	2.46%	2.46%	2.28%	2.28%
Borrowings			$ 41				$ 540
Euro commercial paper [Member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Borrowings | €				€ 0
Euro commercial paper [Member] | Weighted average [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Borrowings | £		£ 255.0				£ 0.0

[1] Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

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Sources of finance - Analysis of Future Anticipated Cash Flows Related to Debt (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions		Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Disclosure of maturity analysis for non-derivative financial liabilities [Line items]
Future anticipated cash flows		£ (13,915.7)	£ (16,875.9)
Effect of discounting/financing rates		1,070.4	1,793.4
Debt financing		(12,845.3)	(15,082.5)
Borrowings [member] | Within one year [member]
Disclosure of maturity analysis for non-derivative financial liabilities [Line items]
Future anticipated cash flows		(324.8)	(748.4)
Borrowings [member] | Between one and two years [member]
Disclosure of maturity analysis for non-derivative financial liabilities [Line items]
Future anticipated cash flows		(204.0)	(596.8)
Borrowings [member] | Between two and three years [member]
Disclosure of maturity analysis for non-derivative financial liabilities [Line items]
Future anticipated cash flows		(692.1)	(937.1)
Borrowings [member] | Between three and four years [member]
Disclosure of maturity analysis for non-derivative financial liabilities [Line items]
Future anticipated cash flows		(726.3)	(742.5)
Borrowings [member] | Between four and five years [member]
Disclosure of maturity analysis for non-derivative financial liabilities [Line items]
Future anticipated cash flows		(634.2)	(786.8)
Borrowings [member] | Over five years [member]
Disclosure of maturity analysis for non-derivative financial liabilities [Line items]
Future anticipated cash flows		(2,761.9)	(4,199.7)
Borrowings [member] | Debt financing (including interest) under the Revolving Credit Facility and in relation to unsecured loan notes [member]
Disclosure of maturity analysis for non-derivative financial liabilities [Line items]
Future anticipated cash flows		(5,343.3)	(8,011.3)
Bank overdrafts [member] | Within one year [member]
Disclosure of maturity analysis for non-derivative financial liabilities [Line items]
Future anticipated cash flows	[1]	£ (8,572.4)	£ (8,864.6)

[1] Figures have been restated to be in accordance with IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, as described in the accounting policies of the consolidated financial statements.

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Sources of finance - Analysis of Fixed and Floating Rate Debt by Currency (Detail) € in Millions, £ in Millions, $ in Millions		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2019 GBP (£)	Dec. 31, 2018 GBP (£)	Dec. 31, 2019 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2019 EUR (€)
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Borrowings		£ 4,272.9	£ 6,217.9
US Dollar bonds [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Borrowings | $				$ 1,563
US Dollar bonds [member] | Fixed interest rate [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Borrowings		£ 1,178.2	£ 1,154.8
Fixed rate	[1]	4.06%	4.58%	4.06%	4.06%
Period (months)	[1]	95 months	181 months
US Dollar bonds [member] | Floating interest rate [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Borrowings			£ 1,029.6
Floating basis			LIBOR
Sterling bonds [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Borrowings		£ 400.0
Sterling bonds [member] | Fixed interest rate [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Borrowings		£ 844.1	£ 1,044.1
Fixed rate	[1]	2.73%	3.43%	2.73%	2.73%
Period (months)	[1]	188 months	232 months
Eurobonds [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Borrowings | €					€ 3,100
Eurobonds [member] | Fixed interest rate [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Borrowings		£ 1,777.7	£ 2,425.9
Fixed rate	[1]	2.34%	1.99%	2.34%	2.34%
Period (months)	[1]	82 months	75 months
Eurobonds [member] | Floating interest rate [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Borrowings		£ 423.3	£ 449.2
Floating basis		EURIBOR	EURIBOR
Period (months)	[1]	16 months
Other bonds [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Borrowings		£ 49.6	£ 114.3

[1] Weighted average. These rates do not include the effect of gains on interest rate swap terminations that are written to income over the life of the original instrument.

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Sources of finance - Analysis of Future Anticipated Cash Flows Related of Financial Derivatives (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Trade and Other Payable [member]
Disclosure of maturity analysis for derivative financial liabilities [line items]
Future anticipated cash flows, Financial liabilities	£ 615.9	£ 1,376.2
Future anticipated cash flows, Financial assets	44.0	632.5
Trade and Other Payable [member] | Within one year [member]
Disclosure of maturity analysis for derivative financial liabilities [line items]
Future anticipated cash flows, Financial liabilities	113.6	229.3
Future anticipated cash flows, Financial assets	44.0	124.6
Trade and Other Payable [member] | Between one and two years [member]
Disclosure of maturity analysis for derivative financial liabilities [line items]
Future anticipated cash flows, Financial liabilities	17.5	50.0
Future anticipated cash flows, Financial assets		11.8
Trade and Other Payable [member] | Between two and three years [member]
Disclosure of maturity analysis for derivative financial liabilities [line items]
Future anticipated cash flows, Financial liabilities	11.8	688.4
Future anticipated cash flows, Financial assets		11.5
Trade and Other Payable [member] | Between three and four years [member]
Disclosure of maturity analysis for derivative financial liabilities [line items]
Future anticipated cash flows, Financial liabilities	11.6	408.5
Future anticipated cash flows, Financial assets		11.6
Trade and Other Payable [member] | Between four and five years [member]
Disclosure of maturity analysis for derivative financial liabilities [line items]
Future anticipated cash flows, Financial liabilities	11.6
Future anticipated cash flows, Financial assets		11.6
Trade and Other Payable [member] | Over five years [member]
Disclosure of maturity analysis for derivative financial liabilities [line items]
Future anticipated cash flows, Financial liabilities	449.8
Future anticipated cash flows, Financial assets		461.4
Trade and other receivable [member]
Disclosure of maturity analysis for derivative financial liabilities [line items]
Future anticipated cash flows, Financial liabilities	593.4	1,359.1
Future anticipated cash flows, Financial assets	45.0	644.8
Trade and other receivable [member] | Within one year [member]
Disclosure of maturity analysis for derivative financial liabilities [line items]
Future anticipated cash flows, Financial liabilities	107.8	221.9
Future anticipated cash flows, Financial assets	45.0	120.6
Trade and other receivable [member] | Between one and two years [member]
Disclosure of maturity analysis for derivative financial liabilities [line items]
Future anticipated cash flows, Financial liabilities	10.9	45.3
Future anticipated cash flows, Financial assets		6.5
Trade and other receivable [member] | Between two and three years [member]
Disclosure of maturity analysis for derivative financial liabilities [line items]
Future anticipated cash flows, Financial liabilities	6.2	685.3
Future anticipated cash flows, Financial assets		6.4
Trade and other receivable [member] | Between three and four years [member]
Disclosure of maturity analysis for derivative financial liabilities [line items]
Future anticipated cash flows, Financial liabilities	6.1	406.6
Future anticipated cash flows, Financial assets		6.5
Trade and other receivable [member] | Between four and five years [member]
Disclosure of maturity analysis for derivative financial liabilities [line items]
Future anticipated cash flows, Financial liabilities	6.1
Future anticipated cash flows, Financial assets		6.6
Trade and other receivable [member] | Over five years [member]
Disclosure of maturity analysis for derivative financial liabilities [line items]
Future anticipated cash flows, Financial liabilities	£ 456.3
Future anticipated cash flows, Financial assets		£ 498.2

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Analysis of cash flows - Summary of Analysis of Cash Flows (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018		Dec. 31, 2017
Disclosure Of Cash Flow Statement [line items]
Profit for the year	[1]	£ 950.1	£ 901.1	[2]	£ 2,059.4	[2]
Taxation	[1]	353.8	323.9		197.0
Revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments	[1]	(154.4)	72.8		(409.3)
Finance costs	[1]	376.4	289.3		269.8
Finance and investment income	[1]	(102.6)	(104.8)		(95.2)
Share of results of associates	[1]	(21.2)	(43.5)		(113.5)
Goodwill impairment on classification as held for sale	[1]	94.5
Gain on sale of discontinued operations	[1]	(73.8)
Attributable tax expense on sale of discontinued operations	[1]	157.4
Non-cash share-based incentive plans (including share options)	[1]	71.4	84.8		105.0
Depreciation of property, plant and equipment	[1]	203.2	225.1		230.7
Depreciation of right-of-use assets	[1]	317.9
Impairment of goodwill	[1]	47.7	176.5		27.1
Amortisation and impairment of acquired intangible assets	[1]	135.6	280.0		195.1
Amortisation of other intangible assets	[1]	29.6	38.7		36.3
Investment write-downs	[1]	7.5	2.0		95.9
Gains on disposal of investments and subsidiaries	[1]	(45.1)	(235.5)		(129.0)
(Gains)/losses on remeasurement of equity interests arising from a change in scope of ownership	[1]	(0.4)	(2.0)		0.3
Gain on sale of freehold property in New York	[1]	(7.9)
Losses on sale of property, plant and equipment	[1]	3.2	0.6		1.1
Decrease/(increase) in trade receivables and accrued income	[1]	159.0	(298.9)		(90.4)
Increase/(decrease) in trade payables and deferred income	[1]	394.7	500.9		(170.8)
Increase in other receivables	[1]	(263.8)	(52.9)		(110.6)
Decrease in other payables – short-term	[1]	(16.4)	(31.8)		(122.8)
Increase in other payables – long-term	[1]	53.7	0.4		20.1
Increase/(decrease) in provisions	[1]	23.1	48.0		(57.3)
Corporation and overseas tax paid	[1]	(536.0)	(383.6)		(424.7)
Payment on early settlement of bonds	[1]	(63.4)
Interest and similar charges paid	[1]	(270.6)	(252.8)		(246.6)
Interest paid on lease liabilities	[1]	(105.1)
Interest received	[1]	80.8	90.4		76.9
Investment income	[1]	18.3	15.4		16.8
Dividends from associates	[1]	33.3	49.7		46.8
Net cash inflow from operating activities	[1]	1,850.5	1,693.8		1,408.1
Acquisitions and disposals:
Initial cash consideration		(3.9)	(126.7)		(214.8)
Cash and cash equivalents acquired		0.0	11.3		28.9
Earnout payments		(130.2)	(120.2)		(199.1)
Purchase of other investments (including associates)		(27.2)	(48.1)		(92.5)
Acquisitions		(161.3)	(283.7)		(477.5)
Proceeds on disposal of investments and subsidiaries	[3]	2,468.5	849.0		296.0
Cash and cash equivalents disposed		(327.5)	(15.1)
Disposals of investments and subsidiaries		2,141.0	833.9		296.0
Cash consideration for non-controlling interests		(62.7)	(109.9)		(47.3)
Net acquisition payments and disposal proceeds		1,917.0	440.3		(228.8)
Share repurchases and buy-backs:
Purchase of own shares by ESOP Trusts			(102.8)		(214.6)
Shares purchased into treasury		(43.8)	(104.3)	[1]	(289.6)	[1]
Net cash outflow		(43.8)	(207.1)		(504.2)
Net increase/(decrease) in borrowings:
(Decrease)/increase in drawings on bank loans		(70.6)	(819.3)		785.6
Net cash (outflow)/inflow		(1,713.2)	(440.6)		599.6
Cash and cash equivalents:
Cash at bank and in hand	[4],[5]	10,442.1	10,433.4		11,509.2
Short-term bank deposits	[4],[5]	863.6	632.4		341.8
Overdrafts	[4],[5]	(8,572.4)	(8,864.6)		(9,852.8)
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year	[4],[5]	2,733.3	2,201.2		1,998.2
Repayment of EURO 600 million bonds [member]
Net increase/(decrease) in borrowings:
Repayment of bonds		(512.7)
Repayment of USD 812 million bonds [member]
Net increase/(decrease) in borrowings:
Repayment of bonds		(618.8)
Partial repayment of USD 272 million bonds [member]
Net increase/(decrease) in borrowings:
Repayment of bonds		(135.4)	(20.8)
Partial repayment of USD 450 million bonds [member]
Net increase/(decrease) in borrowings:
Repayment of bonds		(176.2)	(37.3)
Repayment of GBP 200 million bonds [member]
Net increase/(decrease) in borrowings:
Repayment of bonds		£ (199.5)
Proceeds from issue of EURO 250 million bonds [member]
Net increase/(decrease) in borrowings:
Proceeds from issues of bonds			218.8		214.0
Proceeds from issue of EURO 500 million bonds [member]
Net increase/(decrease) in borrowings:
Proceeds from issues of bonds			438.0
Repayment of EURO 252 million bonds [member]
Net increase/(decrease) in borrowings:
Repayment of bonds			£ (220.0)
Repayment of GBP 400 million bonds [member]
Net increase/(decrease) in borrowings:
Repayment of bonds					£ (400.0)

[1] Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

[2] Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies.

[3] Proceeds on disposal of investments and subsidiaries includes return of capital from investments in associates.

[4] Bank overdrafts are included in cash and cash equivalents because they form an integral part of the Group’s cash management.

[5] Figures have been restated to be in accordance with IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, as described in the accounting policies of the consolidated financial statements.

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Analysis of cash flows - Summary of Analysis of Cash Flows (Parenthetical) (Detail) - Dec. 31, 2019	GBP (£)	USD ($)	EUR (€)
Disclosure Of Cash Flow Statement [line items]
Bond amount | £	£ 6,309,800,000
Repayment of EURO 600 million bonds [member]
Disclosure Of Cash Flow Statement [line items]
Bond amount			€ 600,000,000
Repayment of USD 812 million bonds [member]
Disclosure Of Cash Flow Statement [line items]
Bond amount | $		$ 812,000,000
Partial repayment of USD 272 million bonds [member]
Disclosure Of Cash Flow Statement [line items]
Bond amount | $		272,000,000
Partial repayment of USD 450 million bonds [member]
Disclosure Of Cash Flow Statement [line items]
Bond amount | $		$ 450,000,000
Repayment of GBP 200 million bonds [member]
Disclosure Of Cash Flow Statement [line items]
Bond amount | £	200,000,000
Proceeds from issue of EURO 250 million bonds [member]
Disclosure Of Cash Flow Statement [line items]
Bond amount			250,000,000
Proceeds from issue of EURO 500 million bonds [member]
Disclosure Of Cash Flow Statement [line items]
Bond amount			500,000,000
Repayment of EURO 252 million bonds [member]
Disclosure Of Cash Flow Statement [line items]
Bond amount			€ 252,000,000
Repayment of GBP 400 million bonds [member]
Disclosure Of Cash Flow Statement [line items]
Bond amount | £	£ 400,000,000

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Assets held for sale and discontinued operations - Additional information (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions				12 Months Ended
		Feb. 27, 2020	Dec. 05, 2019	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Statement [LineItems]
Goodwill impairment on classification as held for sale	[1]			£ (94.5)
Disposal of discontinued operations consideration expected to be received for remaining stages			£ 200.0
Net cash inflow from operating activities	[2]			1,850.5	£ 1,693.8	£ 1,408.1
Net cash inflow/(outflow) from investing activities				1,759.6	184.5	(499.7)
Net cash (outflow)/inflow from financing activities				(2,922.0)	(1,613.8)	(785.6)
Kantar [member]
Statement [LineItems]
Net cash inflow from operating activities				322.9	292.5	378.4
Net cash inflow/(outflow) from investing activities				(53.2)	(59.5)	(67.8)
Net cash (outflow)/inflow from financing activities				(27.2)	£ (7.9)	£ (9.1)
Kantar second stage [member]
Statement [LineItems]
Proportion of the Kantar group included in the second stage of the transaction completed		4.00%
Disposal of major subsidiary [member] | Kantar second stage [member]
Statement [LineItems]
Disposal group discontinued operation cash consideration received		£ 136.7
Kantar Business [Member]
Statement [LineItems]
Percentage of interest in associates			40.00%
Proportion of the Kantar group included in the first stage of the transaction completed			90.00%
Goodwill impairment on classification as held for sale				(94.5)
Attributable tax expense				157.4
Gain on disposal of discontinued operations Before Tax				£ 73.8
Disposal of discontinued operations consideration			£ 2,140.2

[1] Goodwill impairment of £94.5 million arose from the assessment of fair value less costs to sell under IFRS 5.

[2] Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

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Assets held for sale and discontinued operations - Detailed Information About Amounts Of Discontinued Operations Included In Profit (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018		Dec. 31, 2017
Statement [LineItems]
Revenue	[1]	£ 13,234.1	£ 13,046.7	[2],[3]	£ 13,146.4	[2],[3]
Costs of services	[2]	(10,825.1)	(10,559.1)	[3]	(10,481.6)	[3]
Gross profit	[2]	2,409.0	2,487.6	[3]	2,664.8	[3]
General and administrative costs	[2]	(1,113.1)	(1,242.3)	[3]	(1,086.9)	[3]
Operating profit	[2]	1,295.9	1,245.3	[3]	1,577.9	[3]
Share of results of associates	[2]	14.7	30.5	[3]	98.0	[3]
Profit before interest and taxation	[2]	1,310.6	1,275.8	[3]	1,675.9	[3]
Finance income	[2]	99.0	98.9	[3]	89.0	[3]
Finance costs	[2]	(359.1)	(279.1)	[3]	(261.9)	[3]
Profit before taxation	[4]	1,214.3	1,019.3	[5]	1,894.0	[5]
Attributable tax expense	[2]	(275.0)	(256.0)	[3],[4]	(83.0)	[3],[4]
Profit after taxation	[2]	950.1	901.1	[3]	2,059.4	[3]
Goodwill impairment on classification as held for sale	[6]	(94.5)
Attributable to:
Equity holders of the parent	[2]	856.3	824.6	[3]	1,963.7	[3]
Non-controlling interests	[2]	93.8	76.5	[3]	95.7	[3]
Profit for the year from discontinued operations	[2]	10.8	137.8	[3]	248.4	[3]
Discontinued operations [member]
Statement [LineItems]
Revenue		2,387.5	2,555.7		2,657.8
Costs of services		(1,951.5)	(2,104.4)		(2,147.4)
Gross profit		436.0	451.3		510.4
General and administrative costs		(151.7)	(257.8)		(180.1)
Operating profit		284.3	193.5		330.3
Share of results of associates		6.5	13.0		15.5
Profit before interest and taxation		290.8	206.5		345.8
Finance income		3.6	5.4		6.2
Finance costs		(17.3)	(9.7)		(7.9)
Revaluation and retranslation of financial instruments		(9.4)	3.5		18.3
Profit before taxation		267.7	205.7		362.4
Attributable tax expense		(78.8)	(67.9)		(114.0)
Profit after taxation		188.9	137.8		248.4
Gain on sale of discontinued operations		73.8
Attributable tax expense on sale of discontinued operations		(157.4)
Net gain attributable to discounted operations		10.8	137.8		248.4
Attributable to:
Equity holders of the parent		(3.8)	126.4		237.1
Non-controlling interests		14.6	11.4		11.3
Profit for the year from discontinued operations		£ 10.8	£ 137.8		£ 248.4

[1] Intersegment sales have not been separately disclosed as they are not material.

[2] Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

[3] Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies.

[4] Profit before taxation has been restated to be in accordance with IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, as described in the accounting policies.

[5] Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies. As a result Data Investment Management is now excluded from the segment analysis.

[6] Goodwill impairment of £94.5 million arose from the assessment of fair value less costs to sell under IFRS 5.

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Assets held for sale and discontinued operations - Detailed Information About Amounts Of Discontinued Operations Included In Profit (Parenthetical) (Detail) £ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019 GBP (£)
Schedule Of Detailed Information About Amounts Of Discontinued Operations Included In Profit [Abstract]
Impairment on Classification As Held for Sale for Kantar Group	£ (94.5)	[1]

[1] Goodwill impairment of £94.5 million arose from the assessment of fair value less costs to sell under IFRS 5.

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Assets held for sale and discontinued operations - Detailed Information About Gain On Sale Of Discontinued Operations (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Statement [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment	[1]	£ 876.0	£ 1,083.0	£ 979.5
Right-of-use assets	[1]	1,734.5
Interests in associates and joint ventures	[1]	813.0	796.8	1,065.2
Other investments	[1]	498.3	666.7	1,153.5
Deferred tax assets	[1]	187.9	153.0	160.3
Corporate income tax recoverable	[1]	165.4	198.7	234.7
Cash and cash equivalents		2,733.3	2,201.2	1,998.2	£ 1,902.6
Corporate income tax payable	[1]	(499.9)	(545.9)	(649.3)
Lease liabilities		(2,249.7)
Deferred tax liabilities	[1]	(379.8)	(479.5)	(513.7)
Provisions for post-employment benefits	[1]	(159.0)	(184.3)	(206.3)
Provisions for liabilities and charges	[1]	(247.8)	(311.7)	(229.0)
Net assets	[1]	8,415.8	9,784.3	9,960.5
Non-controlling interests	[1]	(371.4)	£ (424.4)	£ (468.8)
Exchange adjustments recycled to the income statement	[1]	284.0
Discontinued operations [member]
Statement [Line Items]
Intangible assets (including goodwill)		2,410.0
Property, plant and equipment		115.7
Right-of-use assets		103.5
Interests in associates and joint ventures		92.3
Other investments		11.5
Deferred tax assets		44.1
Corporate income tax recoverable		49.8
Trade and other receivables		748.8
Cash and cash equivalents		324.9
Trade and other payables		(839.8)
Corporate income tax payable		(48.2)
Lease liabilities		(106.3)
Deferred tax liabilities		(98.6)
Provisions for post-employment benefits		(26.7)
Provisions for liabilities and charges		(22.4)
Net assets		2,758.6
Non-controlling interests		(19.1)
Net assets liabilities excluding non controlling interest		2,739.5
Consideration received in cash and cash equivalents		2,352.1
Re-investment in equity stake	[2]	231.7
Transaction costs		(56.1)
Deferred consideration	[3]	1.6
Total consideration received		2,529.3
Loss on sale before exchange adjustments		(210.2)
Exchange adjustments recycled to the income statement		284.0
Gain on sale of discontinued operation		£ 73.8

[1] Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

[2] Re-investment in equity stake represents the value of the Group’s 40% stake in the new Kantar group as part of the disposal.

[3] Deferred consideration is made up of £79.6 million expected to be received in future periods on the satisfaction of certain conditions and the deferral of £78.0 million consideration against services the Group will supply to Kantar on favourable terms in the future. The conditions expected to be met in the future include the settlement of ongoing legal cases, realisation of the value of certain investments and the utilisation of certain tax losses and allowances. There was uncertainty at the date of disposal in regard to the ultimate resolution of these items and estimates of amounts due to be received were required to be made; there were no individually material estimates. Future services provided by the Group to Kantar arose through the negotiation of Transition Service Arrangements, as is customary for a disposal of this magnitude. The Group will support Kantar for a period of up to 4 years, primarily in the area of IT, on terms which are favourable to the disposal group. As such, an element of consideration has been deferred and will be recognised as the services are provided.

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Assets held for sale and discontinued operations - Detailed Information About Gain On Sale Of Discontinued Operations (Parenthetical) (Detail) - Discontinued operations [member] £ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019 GBP (£)
Statement [Line Items]
Percentage of interest in associates	40.00%
Deferred consideration upon satisfaction of certain conditions	£ 79.6
Deferred consideration upon satisfaction of certain conditions	£ 78.0
Support period for disposal group	4 years

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Assets held for sale and discontinued operations - Detailed Information About Major Classes Of Assets And Liabilities Held For Sale (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions		Dec. 31, 2019		Dec. 31, 2018		Dec. 31, 2017
Non-current assets
Goodwill	[1]	£ 10,110.6		£ 13,132.6		£ 12,874.6
Other	[1]	1,468.8		1,842.0		2,018.4
Property, plant and equipment	[1]	876.0		1,083.0		979.5
Right-of-use assets	[1]	1,734.5
Interests in associates and joint ventures	[1]	813.0		796.8		1,065.2
Other investments	[1]	498.3		666.7		1,153.5
Deferred tax assets	[1]	187.9		153.0		160.3
Trade and other receivables	[1]	137.6		180.0		176.2
Non-current assets	[1]	15,826.7		17,854.1		18,427.7
Current assets
Corporate income tax recoverable	[1]	165.4		198.7		234.7
Trade and other receivables	[1]	11,822.3		13,101.5		12,530.7
Cash and short-term deposits	[1]	11,305.7		11,065.8		11,851.0
Current assets	[1]	23,778.7		24,366.0		24,616.4
Current liabilities
Trade and other payables	[1]	(14,188.1)		(15,021.9)		(14,239.5)
Corporate income tax payable	[1]	(499.9)		(545.9)		(649.3)
Bank overdrafts	[1]	(8,798.0)	[2]	(9,447.7)	[2]	(10,083.7)
Short-term lease liabilities	[1]	(302.2)
Current liabilities	[1]	(23,958.6)		(25,015.5)		(24,972.5)
Non-current liabilities
Trade and other payables	[1]	(449.6)	[3]	(810.0)	[3]	(911.7)
Deferred tax liabilities	[1]	(379.8)		(479.5)		(513.7)
Provisions for post-employment benefits	[1]	(159.0)		(184.3)		(206.3)
Provisions for liabilities and charges	[1]	(247.8)		(311.7)		(229.0)
Long-term lease liabilities	[1]	(1,947.5)
Non-current liabilities	[1]	(7,231.0)		£ (7,420.3)		£ (8,111.1)
Discontinued operations [member]
Non-current assets
Property, plant and equipment		115.7
Right-of-use assets		103.5
Interests in associates and joint ventures		92.3
Other investments		11.5
Deferred tax assets		44.1
Current assets
Corporate income tax recoverable		49.8
Current liabilities
Corporate income tax payable		(48.2)
Non-current liabilities
Deferred tax liabilities		(98.6)
Provisions for post-employment benefits		(26.7)
Provisions for liabilities and charges		(22.4)
Discontinued operations [member] | Assets and liabilities classified as held for sale [member]
Non-current assets
Goodwill		155.4
Other		5.9
Property, plant and equipment		12.8
Right-of-use assets		25.7
Interests in associates and joint ventures		4.6
Other investments		0.6
Deferred tax assets		5.9
Trade and other receivables		2.6
Non-current assets		213.5
Current assets
Corporate income tax recoverable		15.9
Trade and other receivables		189.4
Cash and short-term deposits		66.5
Current assets		271.8
Total assets classified as held for sale		485.3
Current liabilities
Trade and other payables		(130.4)
Corporate income tax payable		(3.8)
Bank overdrafts		(0.2)
Short-term lease liabilities		(3.9)
Current liabilities		(138.3)
Non-current liabilities
Trade and other payables		(1.3)
Deferred tax liabilities		(1.2)
Provisions for post-employment benefits		(8.5)
Provisions for liabilities and charges		(0.6)
Long-term lease liabilities		(20.5)
Non-current liabilities		(32.1)
Total liabilities associated with assets classified as held for sale		(170.4)
Net assets of disposal group		£ 314.9

[1] Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

[2] Figures have been restated to be in accordance with IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, as described in the accounting policies of the consolidated financial statements.

[3] Figures have been restated to be in accordance with IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, as described in the accounting policies.

XML

Leases - Summary of Movement in Right of use Assets and Lease Liabilities (Detail) £ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019 GBP (£)
Disclosure Of Leases [Line Items]
Additions	£ 364.6
Transfers To Net Investment In Subleases	(37.6)	[1]
Disposals	(31.6)
Depreciation of right-of-use assets	(317.9)	[2]
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale	(138.1)
Ending balance, right-of-use assets	1,734.5	[2]
Additions	338.2
Interest expense related to lease liabilities	102.7
Disposals	(27.7)
Repayment of lease liabilities (including interest)	(341.1)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale	(148.6)
Ending balance, lease liabilities	2,249.7
Impact on Initial Application of IFRS16 [member]
Disclosure Of Leases [Line Items]
Beginning balance, right-of-use assets	1,895.1
Beginning balance, lease liabilities	2,326.2
Land and buildings [member]
Disclosure Of Leases [Line Items]
Additions	348.1
Transfers To Net Investment In Subleases	(37.6)	[1]
Disposals	(31.0)
Depreciation of right-of-use assets	(301.5)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale	(134.4)
Ending balance, right-of-use assets	1,706.1
Additions	325.9
Interest expense related to lease liabilities	101.5
Disposals	(27.5)
Repayment of lease liabilities (including interest)	(326.2)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale	(144.7)
Ending balance, lease liabilities	2,223.4
Land and buildings [member] | Impact on Initial Application of IFRS16 [member]
Disclosure Of Leases [Line Items]
Beginning balance, right-of-use assets	1,862.5
Beginning balance, lease liabilities	2,294.4
Plant and machinery [member]
Disclosure Of Leases [Line Items]
Additions	16.5
Transfers To Net Investment In Subleases	0.0
Disposals	(0.6)
Depreciation of right-of-use assets	(16.4)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale	(3.7)
Ending balance, right-of-use assets	28.4
Additions	12.3
Interest expense related to lease liabilities	1.2
Disposals	(0.2)
Repayment of lease liabilities (including interest)	(14.9)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale	(3.9)
Ending balance, lease liabilities	26.3
Plant and machinery [member] | Impact on Initial Application of IFRS16 [member]
Disclosure Of Leases [Line Items]
Beginning balance, right-of-use assets	32.6
Beginning balance, lease liabilities	£ 31.8

[1] The sublease of certain office space is classified as a finance lease and relates primarily to Kantar business units that were sold. The Company de-recognised the right-of-use asset (to the extent that it is subject to the sublease) and recognised the net investment in subleases, which is included within trade and other receivables. No other disclosures are deemed necessary as it is not material.

[2] Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

XML

Leases - Summary of breakdown of Lease Expense (Detail) £ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019 GBP (£)
Disclosure Of Leases [Line Items]
Short-term lease expense	£ (83.8)
Low-value lease expense	(2.9)
Continuing operations lease [member]
Disclosure Of Leases [Line Items]
Short-term lease expense	(83.8)
Low-value lease expense	(2.9)
Variable lease expense	(74.2)
Sublease income	17.5
Charge to operating profit	(445.0)
Interest expense on lease liabilities	(99.7)
Charge to profit before taxation for leases	(544.7)
Land and buildings [member] | Continuing operations lease [member]
Disclosure Of Leases [Line Items]
Depreciation of right-of-use assets	(286.5)
Plant and machinery [member] | Continuing operations lease [member]
Disclosure Of Leases [Line Items]
Depreciation of right-of-use assets	£ (15.1)

XML

Leases - Summary of Maturity of Lease Liabilities (Detail) £ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2019 GBP (£)
Disclosure Of Leases [Line Items]
Lease liability	£ 3,002.5
Effect of discounting	(752.8)
Lease liability at 31 Dec 2019	2,249.7
Short-term lease liabilities at 31 December 2019	302.2	[1]
Long-term lease liabilities at 31 December 2019	1,947.5	[1]
Maturities in calendar year 2020 [member]
Disclosure Of Leases [Line Items]
Lease liability	385.9
Maturities in calendar year 2021 [member]
Disclosure Of Leases [Line Items]
Lease liability	384.0
Maturities in calendar year 2022 [member]
Disclosure Of Leases [Line Items]
Lease liability	335.4
Maturities in calendar year 2023 [member]
Disclosure Of Leases [Line Items]
Lease liability	283.0
Maturities in calendar year 2024 [member]
Disclosure Of Leases [Line Items]
Lease liability	220.5
Maturity in later than calendar year 2025 [member]
Disclosure Of Leases [Line Items]
Lease liability	£ 1,393.7

[1] Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

XML

Leases - Additional Information (Detail) £ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2019 GBP (£)
Text block [abstract]
Future cash flows for leases not yet commenced to which lessee is committed	£ 558.0

XML

Intangible assets - Movement of Goodwill (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018		Dec. 31, 2017
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in goodwill [line items]
Beginning balance	[1]	£ 13,132.6	£ 12,874.6
Impairment on classification as held for sale	[2]	94.5
Impairment losses for the year	[3]	47.7	176.5	[4]	£ 27.1	[4]
Ending balance	[1]	10,110.6	13,132.6		12,874.6
Cost [member]
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in goodwill [line items]
Beginning balance	[1]	14,051.9	13,597.0
Additions	[1],[5]	8.5	154.4
Revision of earnout estimates	[1]	(14.1)	(67.6)
Disposals	[1]	(18.6)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale	[1]	(2,729.1)
Exchange adjustments	[1]	(410.0)	368.1
Ending balance	[1]	10,888.6	14,051.9		13,597.0
Accumulated impairment losses and write-downs [member]
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in goodwill [line items]
Beginning balance	[1]	919.3	722.4
Impairment on classification as held for sale	[1],[6]	70.9
Impairment losses for the year	[1]	47.7	176.5
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale	[1]	(230.6)
Exchange adjustments	[1]	(29.3)	20.4
Ending balance	[1]	£ 778.0	£ 919.3		£ 722.4

[1] Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

[2] Goodwill impairment of £94.5 million arose from the assessment of fair value less costs to sell under IFRS 5.

[3] Figures in 2018 have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

[4] Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies.

[5] Additions represent goodwill arising on the acquisition of subsidiary undertakings including the effect of any revisions to fair value adjustments that had been determined provisionally at the immediately preceding balance sheet date, as permitted by IFRS 3 Business Combinations. The effect of such revisions was not material in either year presented.

[6] Goodwill impairment of £70.9 million arose from the assessment of fair value less costs to sell of the Kantar group on classification as held for sale under IFRS 5.

XML

Intangible assets - Movement of Goodwill (Parenthetical) (Detail) £ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019 GBP (£)
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in goodwill [line items]
Impairment on Classification As Held for Sale for Kantar Group	£ 94.5	[1]
Accumulated impairment [member]
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in goodwill [line items]
Impairment on Classification As Held for Sale for Kantar Group	£ 70.9	[2],[3]

[1] Goodwill impairment of £94.5 million arose from the assessment of fair value less costs to sell under IFRS 5.

[2] Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

[3] Goodwill impairment of £70.9 million arose from the assessment of fair value less costs to sell of the Kantar group on classification as held for sale under IFRS 5.

XML

Intangible assets - Movements of Other Intangible Assets (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018		Dec. 31, 2017
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]
Beginning balance	[1]	£ 1,842.0	£ 2,018.4
Charge for the year		26.5	89.1		£ 6.0
Ending balance	[1]	1,468.8	1,842.0		2,018.4
Cost [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]
Beginning balance		4,180.1	4,040.6
Additions		43.2	60.4
Disposals		(44.4)	(38.2)
New acquisitions		3.5	40.3
Other movements		(1.4)	(4.5)	[2]
Exchange adjustments		(79.5)	81.5
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(1,094.9)
Ending balance		3,006.6	4,180.1		4,040.6
Amortisation and impairment [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]
Beginning balance		2,338.1	2,022.2
Charge for the year		159.6	314.5
Disposals		(39.3)	(28.0)
Other movements		2.6	(1.9)
Exchange adjustments		(24.3)	31.3
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(898.9)
Ending balance		1,537.8	2,338.1		2,022.2
Brands with an indefinite useful life [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]
Beginning balance		1,132.8	1,081.3
Ending balance		1,078.2	1,132.8		1,081.3
Brands with an indefinite useful life [member] | Cost [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]
Beginning balance		1,132.8	1,081.3
Exchange adjustments		(41.4)	51.5
Ending balance		1,091.4	1,132.8		1,081.3
Brands with an indefinite useful life [member] | Amortisation and impairment [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]
Charge for the year		13.2
Ending balance		13.2
Acquired intangibles [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]
Beginning balance		594.8	829.1
Ending balance		323.6	594.8		829.1
Acquired intangibles [member] | Cost [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]
Beginning balance		2,610.0	2,547.8
Disposals		(3.4)	(0.9)
New acquisitions		3.5	40.3
Other movements	[2]		2.9
Exchange adjustments		(28.2)	19.9
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(979.0)
Ending balance		1,602.9	2,610.0		2,547.8
Acquired intangibles [member] | Amortisation and impairment [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]
Beginning balance		2,015.2	1,718.7
Charge for the year		116.8	275.8
Disposals		(1.6)	(0.7)
Exchange adjustments		(15.2)	21.4
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(835.9)
Ending balance		1,279.3	2,015.2		1,718.7
Other [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]
Beginning balance		114.4	108.0
Ending balance		67.0	114.4		108.0
Other [member] | Cost [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]
Beginning balance		437.3	411.5
Additions		43.2	60.4
Disposals		(41.0)	(37.3)
Other movements		(1.4)	(7.4)	[2]
Exchange adjustments		(9.9)	10.1
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(115.9)
Ending balance		312.3	437.3		411.5
Other [member] | Amortisation and impairment [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]
Beginning balance		322.9	303.5
Charge for the year		29.6	38.7
Disposals		(37.7)	(27.3)
Other movements		2.6	(1.9)
Exchange adjustments		(9.1)	9.9
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(63.0)
Ending balance		£ 245.3	£ 322.9		£ 303.5

[1] Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

[2] Other movements in acquired intangibles include revisions to fair value adjustments arising on the acquisition of subsidiary undertakings that had been determined provisionally at the immediately preceding balance sheet date, as permitted by IFRS 3 Business Combinations.

XML

Intangible assets - Cash-generating Units with Significant Goodwill (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions		Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Disclosure of information for cash-generating units [line items]
Goodwill	[1]	£ 10,110.6	£ 13,132.6	£ 12,874.6
Brands with an indefinite useful life		1,078.2	1,132.8
GroupM [member]
Disclosure of information for cash-generating units [line items]
Goodwill	[1]	2,921.7	2,928.6
Kantar [member]
Disclosure of information for cash-generating units [line items]
Goodwill	[1]		2,513.0
Wunderman Thompson [Member]
Disclosure of information for cash-generating units [line items]
Goodwill	[1]	2,121.9	2,101.8
Brands with an indefinite useful life		409.7	424.8
VMLYAndR [member]
Disclosure of information for cash-generating units [line items]
Goodwill	[1]	901.0	930.4
Brands with an indefinite useful life		199.1	206.6
Ogilvy [Member]
Disclosure of information for cash-generating units [line items]
Goodwill	[1]	758.6	614.4
Brands with an indefinite useful life		211.1	219.1
Burson Cohn Wolfe [Member]
Disclosure of information for cash-generating units [line items]
Goodwill	[1]	739.3	711.9
Brands with an indefinite useful life		130.2	135.4
Other [member]
Disclosure of information for cash-generating units [line items]
Goodwill	[1]	2,668.1	3,332.5
Brands with an indefinite useful life		£ 128.1	£ 146.9

[1] Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

XML

Intangible assets - Additional Information (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018		Dec. 31, 2017
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]
Other Intangible Assets	[1]	£ 1,468.8	£ 1,842.0		£ 2,018.4
Amortisation and impairment of acquired intangible assets		121.5	201.8
Impairment charge on intangible assets		26.5	89.1		6.0
Goodwill impairment charge	[2]	£ 47.7	£ 176.5	[3]	£ 27.1	[3]
Pre-tax discount rate		8.50%
Percentage of recoverable amount on long term growth of asset		25.00%
First Step [Member]
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]
Assumed annual long-term growth rate		3.00%	3.00%
Pre-tax discount rate		8.50%	9.00%
Second Step [Member]
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]
Management forecasts for a projection period		five years
Assumed annual long-term growth rate		3.00%	3.00%
Weighting Of The Regional Rates By Its Geographic Distribution Of Cash Flows [Member]
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]
Pre-tax discount rate		8.50%	9.00%
VMLY&R [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]
Goodwill impairment charge			£ 142.8
Other business [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]
Goodwill impairment charge			£ 33.7
Top of range [member] | Range of Pre-tax discount rates for geographic regions [Member]
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]
Pre-tax discount rate		13.60%	16.30%
Top of range [member] | Range of pre-tax discount rates for global cash generating units [Member]
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]
Pre-tax discount rate		7.40%	8.70%
Bottom of range [member] | Range of Pre-tax discount rates for geographic regions [Member]
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]
Pre-tax discount rate		4.10%	6.20%
Bottom of range [member] | Range of pre-tax discount rates for global cash generating units [Member]
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]
Pre-tax discount rate		6.30%	8.00%
Associates [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]
Amortisation and impairment of acquired intangible assets		£ 5.6	£ 3.7
Brand names [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]
Other Intangible Assets		218.6	361.2
Impairment charge on intangible assets		21.4
Customer-related intangibles [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]
Other Intangible Assets		100.6	220.6
Other acquired intangible assets [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]
Other Intangible Assets		4.4	£ 13.0
Customer relationships [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]
Impairment charge on intangible assets		5.1
Brands With An Indefinite Life [Member]
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]
Impairment charge on intangible assets		13.2
Public relations [Member]
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]
Impairment charge on intangible assets		13.2
Global Integrated Agencies [Member]
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]
Impairment charge on intangible assets		13.0
Specialist Agencies [Member]
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]
Impairment charge on intangible assets		£ 0.3

[1] Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

[2] Figures in 2018 have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

[3] Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies.

XML

Property, plant and equipment - Summary of Property, Plant and Equipment (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Beginning balance	[1]	£ 1,083.0	£ 979.5
Depreciation of property, plant and equipment		185.5	188.6	£ 189.0
Ending balance	[1]	876.0	1,083.0	979.5
Cost [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Beginning balance		2,440.7	2,317.9
Additions		294.9	314.8
New acquisitions		0.1	3.1
Disposals		(420.9)	(255.7)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(464.7)
Exchange adjustments		(104.5)	60.6
Ending balance		1,745.6	2,440.7	2,317.9
Depreciation [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Beginning balance		(1,357.7)	(1,338.4)
Depreciation of property, plant and equipment		185.5	225.1
Disposals		271.5	240.5
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		346.0
Exchange adjustments		56.1	(34.7)
Ending balance		(869.6)	(1,357.7)	(1,338.4)
Land [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Beginning balance		37.1	37.1
Ending balance		34.3	37.1	37.1
Land [member] | Cost [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Beginning balance		37.1	37.1
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(2.8)
Ending balance		34.3	37.1	37.1
Freehold buildings [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Beginning balance		108.4	90.3
Ending balance		22.0	108.4	90.3
Freehold buildings [member] | Cost [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Beginning balance		135.5	118.8
Additions		33.7	17.7
New acquisitions			0.1
Disposals		(109.0)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(17.1)
Exchange adjustments		(16.9)	(1.1)
Ending balance		26.2	135.5	118.8
Freehold buildings [member] | Depreciation [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Beginning balance		(27.1)	(28.5)
Depreciation of property, plant and equipment		1.5	3.1
Disposals		7.2
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		15.6
Exchange adjustments		1.6	4.5
Ending balance		(4.2)	(27.1)	(28.5)
Leasehold buildings [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Beginning balance		635.1	555.7
Ending balance		605.5	635.1	555.7
Leasehold buildings [member] | Cost [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Beginning balance		1,202.4	1,081.8
Additions		158.5	161.4
New acquisitions			0.9
Disposals		(167.3)	(83.5)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(98.1)
Exchange adjustments		(46.7)	41.8
Ending balance		1,048.8	1,202.4	1,081.8
Leasehold buildings [member] | Depreciation [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Beginning balance		(567.3)	(526.1)
Depreciation of property, plant and equipment		79.9	91.5
Disposals		129.9	74.6
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		56.1
Exchange adjustments		17.9	(24.3)
Ending balance		(443.3)	(567.3)	(526.1)
Fixtures, fittings and equipment [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Beginning balance		145.6	140.3
Ending balance		101.2	145.6	140.3
Fixtures, fittings and equipment [member] | Cost [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Beginning balance		375.3	377.2
Additions		35.0	49.9
New acquisitions		0.1	1.2
Disposals		(68.3)	(62.9)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(115.2)
Exchange adjustments		(14.5)	9.9
Ending balance		212.4	375.3	377.2
Fixtures, fittings and equipment [member] | Depreciation [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Beginning balance		(229.7)	(236.9)
Depreciation of property, plant and equipment		36.3	44.4
Disposals		59.9	58.0
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		81.7
Exchange adjustments		13.2	(6.4)
Ending balance		(111.2)	(229.7)	(236.9)
Computer equipment [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Beginning balance		156.8	156.1
Ending balance		113.0	156.8	156.1
Computer equipment [member] | Cost [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Beginning balance		690.4	703.0
Additions		67.7	85.8
New acquisitions			0.9
Disposals		(76.3)	(109.3)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(231.5)
Exchange adjustments		(26.4)	10.0
Ending balance		423.9	690.4	703.0
Computer equipment [member] | Depreciation [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Beginning balance		(533.6)	(546.9)
Depreciation of property, plant and equipment		67.8	86.1
Disposals		74.5	107.9
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		192.6
Exchange adjustments		23.4	(8.5)
Ending balance		£ (310.9)	£ (533.6)	£ (546.9)

[1] Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

XML

Property, plant and equipment - Additional Information (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Property, plant and equipment [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Capital commitments contracted	£ 165.0	£ 28.4

XML

Interests in associates, joint ventures and other investments - Movements in Associates, Joint Ventures and Other Investments (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Movements in interests in associates and joint ventures
Beginning balance	[1]	£ 796.8	£ 1,065.2
Additions		236.6	16.7
Share of results of associates undertakings		21.2	43.5
Dividends		(33.3)	(49.7)
Other movements		1.2	1.2
Reclassification from other investments to associates			0.3
Exchange adjustments		(35.5)	12.9
Disposals		(51.5)	(304.0)
Reclassification to subsidiaries		(0.3)	16.9
Amortisation of other intangible assets		(5.6)	(4.2)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(109.1)
Write-downs		(7.5)	(2.0)
Ending balance	[1]	813.0	796.8
Movements in interests in other investments
Beginning balance	[1]	666.7	1,153.5
Additions		18.3	35.0
Reclassification from other investments to associates			(0.3)
Disposals		(42.3)	(341.7)
Revaluation of other investments through profit or loss		9.1	68.1
Revaluation of other investments through other comprehensive income		(141.4)	(247.9)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(12.1)
Ending balance	[1]	£ 498.3	£ 666.7

[1] Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

XML

Interests in associates, joint ventures and other investments - Principal Associates and Joint Ventures (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Barrows Design and Manufacturing (Pty) Limited [member]
Disclosure of principal associates and joint ventures [line items]
Associate, Country of incorporation	South Africa
Associate, % owned	35.00%
Dat Viet VAC Media Corporation [member]
Disclosure of principal associates and joint ventures [line items]
Associate, Country of incorporation	Vietnam
Associate, % owned	30.00%
GIIR Inc [member]
Disclosure of principal associates and joint ventures [line items]
Associate, Country of incorporation	Korea
Associate, % owned	30.00%
Haworth Marketing & Media Company [member]
Disclosure of principal associates and joint ventures [line items]
Associate, Country of incorporation	USA
Associate, % owned	49.00%
High Co SA [member]
Disclosure of principal associates and joint ventures [line items]
Associate, Country of incorporation	France
Associate, % owned	34.10%
Joye Media SL [member]
Disclosure of principal associates and joint ventures [line items]
Associate, Country of incorporation	Spain	[1]
Associate, % owned	22.50%	[1]
Nanjing Yindu Ogilvy Advertising Co. Ltd [member]
Disclosure of principal associates and joint ventures [line items]
Associate, Country of incorporation	China
Associate, % owned	49.00%
Smollan Holdings (Pty) Ltd. [member]
Disclosure of principal associates and joint ventures [line items]
Associate, Country of incorporation	South Africa
Associate, % owned	24.80%
Summer (BC) JVCo S.a r.l. [member]
Disclosure of principal associates and joint ventures [line items]
Associate, Country of incorporation	Luxembourg	[2]
Associate, % owned	40.00%	[2]
Summer (BC) US JVCo SCSp [member]
Disclosure of principal associates and joint ventures [line items]
Associate, Country of incorporation	Luxembourg	[2]
Associate, % owned	40.00%	[2]

[1] Representing the Group’s interest in Imagina.

[2] Representing the Group’s interest in Kantar split between the United States and rest of world.

XML

Interests in associates, joint ventures and other investments - Additional Information (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions		Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Disclosure of principal associates and joint ventures [line items]
Interests in associates and joint ventures	[1]	£ 813.0	£ 796.8	£ 1,065.2
GIIR Inc [member]
Disclosure of principal associates and joint ventures [line items]
Market value of equity interests		21.2	26.3
Interests in associates and joint ventures		37.7	46.8
High Co SA [member]
Disclosure of principal associates and joint ventures [line items]
Market value of equity interests		39.4	30.3
Interests in associates and joint ventures		35.4	37.1
Associates and Other Investments [member]
Disclosure of principal associates and joint ventures [line items]
Capital commitments contracted		£ 21.8	£ 31.4

[1] Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

XML

Interests in associates, joint ventures and other investments - Summary of Aggregate Financial Performance and Net Asset Position of Associates and Joint Ventures (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018		Dec. 31, 2017
Income statement
Revenue	[1]	£ 13,234.1	£ 13,046.7	[2],[3]	£ 13,146.4	[2],[3]
Operating profit	[2]	1,295.9	1,245.3	[3]	1,577.9	[3]
Profit before taxation	[4]	1,214.3	1,019.3	[5]	1,894.0	[5]
Profit for the year	[2]	950.1	901.1	[3]	2,059.4	[3]
Balance sheet
Net assets	[2]	8,415.8	9,784.3		9,960.5
Associates and Joint Ventures [member]
Income statement
Revenue		3,619.1	3,685.8		3,800.8
Operating profit		365.6	378.4		440.4
Profit before taxation		(385.9)	194.7		381.9
Profit for the year		(429.6)	118.1		312.5
Balance sheet
Assets		8,855.1	2,940.9		3,192.9
Liabilities		(6,765.7)	(1,570.6)		(1,633.7)
Net assets		£ 2,089.4	£ 1,370.3		£ 1,559.2

[1] Intersegment sales have not been separately disclosed as they are not material.

[2] Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

[3] Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies.

[4] Profit before taxation has been restated to be in accordance with IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, as described in the accounting policies.

[5] Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies. As a result Data Investment Management is now excluded from the segment analysis.

XML

Deferred tax - Analysis of Deferred Tax Balances for Financial Reporting Purposes (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions		Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Disclosure of temporary difference, unused tax losses and unused tax credits [line items]
Deferred tax assets gross		£ 430.9	£ 412.0
Deferred tax assets, offset		(243.0)	(259.0)
Deferred tax assets	[1]	187.9	153.0	£ 160.3
Deferred tax liabilities gross		(622.8)	(738.5)
Deferred tax liabilities, offset		243.0	259.0
Deferred tax liabilities	[1]	(379.8)	(479.5)	£ (513.7)
Deferred tax assets (liabilities)		£ (191.9)	£ (326.5)

[1] Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

XML

Deferred tax - Movements of Major Gross Deferred Tax Assets (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Disclosure of temporary difference, unused tax losses and unused tax credits [line items]
Beginning balance	[1]	£ 153.0	£ 160.3
Ending balance	[1]	187.9	153.0
Gross deferred tax assets [member]
Disclosure of temporary difference, unused tax losses and unused tax credits [line items]
Beginning balance		412.0	411.8
Acquisition of subsidiaries			2.0
Credit/(charge) to income		57.6	(16.6)
Charge to other comprehensive income		(3.2)	(0.2)
Credit/(charge) to equity		30.9	(1.6)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(56.3)
Exchange differences		(10.1)	16.6
Ending balance		430.9	412.0
Gross deferred tax assets [member] | Deferred compensation [member]
Disclosure of temporary difference, unused tax losses and unused tax credits [line items]
Beginning balance		61.6	53.5
Credit/(charge) to income		(1.7)	4.7
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(4.2)
Exchange differences		(2.2)	3.4
Ending balance		53.5	61.6
Gross deferred tax assets [member] | Accounting provisions and accruals [member]
Disclosure of temporary difference, unused tax losses and unused tax credits [line items]
Beginning balance		101.4	84.9
Credit/(charge) to income		10.2	13.0
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(19.2)
Exchange differences		(5.0)	3.5
Ending balance		87.4	101.4
Gross deferred tax assets [member] | Retirement benefit obligation [member]
Disclosure of temporary difference, unused tax losses and unused tax credits [line items]
Beginning balance		68.5	75.6
Credit/(charge) to income		6.7	(11.2)
Charge to other comprehensive income		(3.2)	(0.2)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(12.3)
Exchange differences		(2.2)	4.3
Ending balance		57.5	68.5
Gross deferred tax assets [member] | Property, plant and equipment [member]
Disclosure of temporary difference, unused tax losses and unused tax credits [line items]
Beginning balance		47.9	68.4
Credit/(charge) to income		19.4	(20.6)
Credit/(charge) to equity		27.8
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(13.6)
Exchange differences		3.2	0.1
Ending balance		84.7	47.9
Gross deferred tax assets [member] | Tax losses and credits [member]
Disclosure of temporary difference, unused tax losses and unused tax credits [line items]
Beginning balance		67.1	72.7
Credit/(charge) to income		24.2	(8.9)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(3.0)
Exchange differences		(2.0)	3.3
Ending balance		86.3	67.1
Gross deferred tax assets [member] | Share-based payments [member]
Disclosure of temporary difference, unused tax losses and unused tax credits [line items]
Beginning balance		16.8	33.0
Credit/(charge) to income		2.9	(15.3)
Credit/(charge) to equity		3.1	(1.6)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(0.7)
Exchange differences		(0.6)	0.7
Ending balance		21.5	16.8
Gross deferred tax assets [member] | Restructuring provisions [member]
Disclosure of temporary difference, unused tax losses and unused tax credits [line items]
Beginning balance		17.3	5.8
Credit/(charge) to income		12.5	10.7
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(3.4)
Exchange differences		(0.6)	0.8
Ending balance		25.8	17.3
Gross deferred tax assets [member] | Other temporary differences [member]
Disclosure of temporary difference, unused tax losses and unused tax credits [line items]
Beginning balance		31.4	17.9
Acquisition of subsidiaries			2.0
Credit/(charge) to income		(16.6)	11.0
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		0.1
Exchange differences		(0.7)	0.5
Ending balance		£ 14.2	£ 31.4

[1] Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

XML

Deferred tax - Movements of Gross Deferred Tax Liabilities (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Disclosure of temporary difference, unused tax losses and unused tax credits [line items]
Beginning balance	[1]	£ 479.5	£ 513.7
Ending balance	[1]	379.8	479.5
Gross deferred tax liabilities [member]
Disclosure of temporary difference, unused tax losses and unused tax credits [line items]
Beginning balance		738.5	765.2
Acquisition of subsidiaries		0.8	10.7
(Credit)/charge to income		18.1	(62.8)
(Credit)/charge to other comprehensive income		(9.6)	0.5
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(105.6)
Exchange differences		(19.4)	24.9
Ending balance		622.8	738.5
Gross deferred tax liabilities [member] | Brands and other intangibles [member]
Disclosure of temporary difference, unused tax losses and unused tax credits [line items]
Beginning balance		438.6	489.2
Acquisition of subsidiaries		0.8	10.7
(Credit)/charge to income		(31.2)	(68.8)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(46.6)
Exchange differences		(9.3)	7.5
Ending balance		352.3	438.6
Gross deferred tax liabilities [member] | Associate earnings [member]
Disclosure of temporary difference, unused tax losses and unused tax credits [line items]
Beginning balance		17.6	21.6
(Credit)/charge to income		68.6	(3.9)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(7.9)
Exchange differences		(1.8)	(0.1)
Ending balance		76.5	17.6
Gross deferred tax liabilities [member] | Goodwill [member]
Disclosure of temporary difference, unused tax losses and unused tax credits [line items]
Beginning balance		182.3	140.4
(Credit)/charge to income		10.3	31.8
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(51.7)
Exchange differences		(5.5)	10.1
Ending balance		135.4	182.3
Gross deferred tax liabilities [member] | Property, plant and equipment [member]
Disclosure of temporary difference, unused tax losses and unused tax credits [line items]
Beginning balance		22.2	21.2
(Credit)/charge to income		(22.2)	(0.3)
Exchange differences			1.3
Ending balance			22.2
Gross deferred tax liabilities [member] | Financial instruments [member]
Disclosure of temporary difference, unused tax losses and unused tax credits [line items]
Beginning balance		39.9	36.2
(Credit)/charge to income		(0.7)	(0.9)
Exchange differences		(2.3)	4.6
Ending balance		36.9	39.9
Gross deferred tax liabilities [member] | Other temporary differences [member]
Disclosure of temporary difference, unused tax losses and unused tax credits [line items]
Beginning balance		37.9	56.6
(Credit)/charge to income		(6.7)	(20.7)
(Credit)/charge to other comprehensive income		(9.6)	0.5
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(0.6)
Exchange differences		(0.5)	1.5
Ending balance		£ 21.7	£ 37.9

[1] Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

XML

Deferred tax - Additional Information (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Disclosure of temporary difference, unused tax losses and unused tax credits [line items]
Gross tax losses and other temporary differences available for offset against future profits	£ 6,475.6	£ 6,638.6
Gross tax losses and other temporary differences, deferred tax assets that have been recognised	1,856.6	1,763.4
Gross tax losses and other temporary differences, deferred tax assets that have not been recognised	4,619.0	4,875.2
Unrecognised temporary differences	60.7	46.4
Losses carried forward	4,437.6	4,572.6
Temporary differences, deferred tax liabilities that have not been recognised	£ 2,165.3	£ 1,768.5
Bottom of range [member]
Disclosure of temporary difference, unused tax losses and unused tax credits [line items]
Unrecognised temporary differences, period	1 year
Top of range [member]
Disclosure of temporary difference, unused tax losses and unused tax credits [line items]
Unrecognised temporary differences, period	10 years

XML

Trade and other receivables - Summary of Trade and Other Receivables, Amounts Falling Due Within One Year (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions		Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Trade and other receivables [abstract]
Trade receivables (net of bad debt provision)		£ 7,007.6	£ 8,062.2
Work in progress		349.5	366.5
VAT and sales taxes recoverable		212.7	264.2
Prepayments		287.1	287.3
Accrued income		3,292.7	3,541.2
Fair value of derivatives		1.4	1.3
Other debtors		671.3	578.8
Trade and other receivables	[1]	£ 11,822.3	£ 13,101.5	£ 12,530.7

[1] Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

XML

Trade and other receivables - Ageing of Trade Receivables and Other Financial Assets (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Disclosure of financial assets [Line items]
Financial assets	£ 7,590.1	£ 8,613.9
Trade receivables [member]
Disclosure of financial assets [Line items]
Financial assets	7,007.6	8,062.2
Other financial assets [member]
Disclosure of financial assets [Line items]
Financial assets	582.5	551.7
0-30 days [member]
Disclosure of financial assets [Line items]
Financial assets	1,064.8	1,432.0
0-30 days [member] | Trade receivables [member]
Disclosure of financial assets [Line items]
Financial assets	934.9	1,370.7
0-30 days [member] | Other financial assets [member]
Disclosure of financial assets [Line items]
Financial assets	129.9	61.3
31-90 days [member]
Disclosure of financial assets [Line items]
Financial assets	389.3	563.3
31-90 days [member] | Trade receivables [member]
Disclosure of financial assets [Line items]
Financial assets	341.0	549.1
31-90 days [member] | Other financial assets [member]
Disclosure of financial assets [Line items]
Financial assets	48.3	14.2
91-180 days [member]
Disclosure of financial assets [Line items]
Financial assets	108.3	136.9
91-180 days [member] | Trade receivables [member]
Disclosure of financial assets [Line items]
Financial assets	92.1	128.3
91-180 days [member] | Other financial assets [member]
Disclosure of financial assets [Line items]
Financial assets	16.2	8.6
181 days - 1 year [member]
Disclosure of financial assets [Line items]
Financial assets	27.6	83.3
181 days - 1 year [member] | Trade receivables [member]
Disclosure of financial assets [Line items]
Financial assets	22.4	75.6
181 days - 1 year [member] | Other financial assets [member]
Disclosure of financial assets [Line items]
Financial assets	5.2	7.7
Over 1 year [member]
Disclosure of financial assets [Line items]
Financial assets	89.2	99.8
Over 1 year [member] | Trade receivables [member]
Disclosure of financial assets [Line items]
Financial assets	63.9	64.8
Over 1 year [member] | Other financial assets [member]
Disclosure of financial assets [Line items]
Financial assets	25.3	35.0
Not past due [member]
Disclosure of financial assets [Line items]
Financial assets	5,910.9	6,298.6
Not past due [member] | Trade receivables [member]
Disclosure of financial assets [Line items]
Financial assets	5,553.3	5,873.7
Not past due [member] | Other financial assets [member]
Disclosure of financial assets [Line items]
Financial assets	£ 357.6	£ 424.9

XML

Trade and other receivables - Summary of Trade and Other Receivables, Amounts Falling Due After More Than One Year (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions		Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Trade and other non-current receivables [abstract]
Prepayments		£ 2.2	£ 3.0
Accrued income			16.5
Fair value of derivatives			8.4
Other debtors		135.4	152.1
Trade and other receivables	[1]	£ 137.6	£ 180.0	£ 176.2

[1] Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

XML

Trade and other receivables - Bad Debt Provisions (Detail) - Trade receivables [member] - GBP (£) £ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Disclosure of financial assets [Line items]
At beginning of year	£ 116.6	£ 91.3	£ 93.8
New acquisitions	5.0	1.5	1.2
Charged to the income statement	45.4	66.7	27.4
Released to the income statement	(19.0)	(11.6)	(8.4)
Exchange adjustments	(4.1)	2.1	(4.1)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale	(8.9)		0.0
Utilisations and other movements	(23.3)	(33.4)	(18.6)
At end of year	£ 111.7	£ 116.6	£ 91.3

XML

Trade and other receivables - Additional Information (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Trade and other receivables [abstract]
Allowance for bad and doubtful debts as a percentage of gross trade accounts receivables	1.60%	1.40%	1.10%

XML

Trade and other payables - Summary of Trade and Other Payables, Amounts Falling Due within One Year (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions		Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Trade and other current payables [abstract]
Trade payables	[1]	£ 10,112.1	£ 10,524.3
Deferred income	[1]	1,024.6	1,253.6
Payments due to vendors (earnout agreements)	[1]	143.4	149.1
Liabilities in respect of put option agreements with vendors	[1]	75.7	19.4
Fair value of derivatives	[1]	1.5	2.6
Share repurchases - close period commitments	[1],[2]	252.3
Other creditors and accruals	[1]	2,578.5	3,072.9
Total	[3]	£ 14,188.1	£ 15,021.9	£ 14,239.5

[1] Figures have been restated to be in accordance with IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, as described in the accounting policies of the consolidated financial statements.

[2] During 2019, the Company entered into an arrangement with a third party to conduct share buybacks on its behalf in the close period commencing on 2 January 2020 and ending on 27 February 2020, in accordance with UK listing rules. The commitment resulting from this agreement constitutes a liability at 31 December 2019, which is included in Trade and other payables: amounts falling due within one year and has been recognised as a movement in equity.

[3] Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

XML

Trade and other payables - Summary of Trade and Other Payables, Amounts Falling Due After More Than One Year (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions		Dec. 31, 2019		Dec. 31, 2018		Dec. 31, 2017
Trade and other non-current payables [abstract]
Payments due to vendors (earnout agreements)	[1]	£ 100.3		£ 251.7
Liabilities in respect of put option agreements with vendors	[1]	128.8		188.6
Fair value of derivatives	[1]	21.2		14.2
Other creditors and accruals	[1]	199.3		355.5
Trade and other payables	[2]	£ 449.6	[1]	£ 810.0	[1]	£ 911.7

[1] Figures have been restated to be in accordance with IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, as described in the accounting policies.

[2] Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

XML

Trade and other payables - Payments Due to Vendors (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions		Dec. 31, 2019		Dec. 31, 2018		Dec. 31, 2017
Disclosure of maturity analysis for non-derivative financial liabilities [Line items]
Payments due to vendors, Current	[1]	£ 143.4		£ 149.1
Payments due to vendors, Non-current	[2]	100.3		251.7
Payments due to vendors		243.7	[2]	400.8	[2]	£ 584.5
Within one year [member]
Disclosure of maturity analysis for non-derivative financial liabilities [Line items]
Payments due to vendors, Current	[2]	143.4		149.1
Between one and two years [member]
Disclosure of maturity analysis for non-derivative financial liabilities [Line items]
Payments due to vendors, Non-current	[2]	36.3		140.0
Between two and three years [member]
Disclosure of maturity analysis for non-derivative financial liabilities [Line items]
Payments due to vendors, Non-current	[2]	34.6		36.6
Between three and four years [member]
Disclosure of maturity analysis for non-derivative financial liabilities [Line items]
Payments due to vendors, Non-current	[2]	12.3		44.0
Between four and five years [member]
Disclosure of maturity analysis for non-derivative financial liabilities [Line items]
Payments due to vendors, Non-current	[2]	7.7		17.1
Over five years [member]
Disclosure of maturity analysis for non-derivative financial liabilities [Line items]
Payments due to vendors, Non-current	[2]	£ 9.4		£ 14.0

[1] Figures have been restated to be in accordance with IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, as described in the accounting policies of the consolidated financial statements.

[2] Figures have been restated to be in accordance with IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, as described in the accounting policies.

XML

Trade and Other Payables Amounts Falling Due After More than One Year - Summary of Contingent Consideration (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2019		Dec. 31, 2018
Disclosure Of Fair Value Of Contingent Consideration [abstract]
At the beginning of the year		£ 400.8	[1]	£ 584.5
Earnouts paid		(130.0)		(120.2)
New acquisitions		9.6		48.6
Revision of estimates taken to goodwill (note 14)		(14.1)		(67.6)
Revaluation of payments due to vendors		3.8		(50.5)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(11.5)		0.0
Exchange adjustments		(14.9)		6.0
At end of year	[1]	£ 243.7		£ 400.8

[1] Figures have been restated to be in accordance with IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, as described in the accounting policies.

XML

Trade and Other Payables - Additional Information (Detail) - GBP (£)	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Bottom of range [member] | Earnout agreements for acquisitions completed in the current year [member]
Disclosure of trade and other payables [line items]
Potential undiscounted amount of future payments	£ 0	£ 0
Bottom of range [member] | All earn-out agreements [member]
Disclosure of trade and other payables [line items]
Potential undiscounted amount of future payments	0	0
Top of range [member] | Earnout agreements for acquisitions completed in the current year [member]
Disclosure of trade and other payables [line items]
Potential undiscounted amount of future payments	14,000,000	179,000,000
Top of range [member] | All earn-out agreements [member]
Disclosure of trade and other payables [line items]
Potential undiscounted amount of future payments	£ 1,110,000,000	£ 1,960,000,000

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Bank overdrafts, bonds and bank loans - Bank Overdrafts, Bonds and Bank Loans Amounts Falling Due Within One Year (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions		Dec. 31, 2019		Dec. 31, 2018		Dec. 31, 2017
Disclosure of bank overdraft bonds and bank loans [abstract]
Bank overdrafts	[1],[2]	£ 8,572.4		£ 8,864.6		£ 9,852.8
Corporate bonds and bank loans	[2]	225.6		583.1
Bank overdrafts, bonds and bank loans	[3]	£ 8,798.0	[2]	£ 9,447.7	[2]	£ 10,083.7

[1] Bank overdrafts are included in cash and cash equivalents because they form an integral part of the Group’s cash management.

[2] Figures have been restated to be in accordance with IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, as described in the accounting policies of the consolidated financial statements.

[3] Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

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Bank overdrafts, bonds and bank loans - Corporate Bonds and Bank Loans Amounts Falling Due After More Than One Year (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions		Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Disclosure of bank overdraft bonds and bank loans [abstract]
Non-current portion of non-current borrowings	[1]	£ 4,047.3	£ 5,634.8	£ 6,250.4

[1] Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

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Bank overdrafts, bonds and bank loans - Additional Information (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Disclosure of bank overdraft bonds and bank loans [line items]
Carrying amount of bank loans	£ 110.4	£ 186.8
Corporate bond [member]
Disclosure of bank overdraft bonds and bank loans [line items]
Fair value of corporate bonds	£ 4,439.8	£ 5,965.7

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Bank overdrafts, bonds and bank loans - Repayments Due on Corporate Bonds, Bank Loans and Overdrafts (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Disclosure of maturity analysis for non-derivative financial liabilities [Line items]
Corporate bonds, bank loans and overdrafts	£ 12,845.3	£ 15,082.5
Within one year [member]
Disclosure of maturity analysis for non-derivative financial liabilities [Line items]
Corporate bonds, bank loans and overdrafts	8,798.0	9,447.7
Between one and two years [member]
Disclosure of maturity analysis for non-derivative financial liabilities [Line items]
Corporate bonds, bank loans and overdrafts	96.4	423.8
Between two and three years [member]
Disclosure of maturity analysis for non-derivative financial liabilities [Line items]
Corporate bonds, bank loans and overdrafts	590.4	761.0
Between three and four years [member]
Disclosure of maturity analysis for non-derivative financial liabilities [Line items]
Corporate bonds, bank loans and overdrafts	632.1	609.8
Between four and five years [member]
Disclosure of maturity analysis for non-derivative financial liabilities [Line items]
Corporate bonds, bank loans and overdrafts	554.3	670.1
Over five years [member]
Disclosure of maturity analysis for non-derivative financial liabilities [Line items]
Corporate bonds, bank loans and overdrafts	£ 2,174.1	£ 3,170.1

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Provisions for liabilities and charges - Summary of Provisions for Liabilities and Charges (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Disclosure Of Noncurrent Provisions [line items]
Beginning balance	£ 311.7	£ 229.0
Charged to the income statement	47.1	86.0
Acquisitions	0.7	8.8
Utilised	(13.4)	(25.8)
Released to the income statement	(17.2)	(10.3)
Other movements	(49.2)	12.9
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale	(24.6)
Exchange adjustments	(7.3)	11.1
Ending balance	247.8	311.7
Property [Member]
Disclosure Of Noncurrent Provisions [line items]
Beginning balance	118.7	52.6
Charged to the income statement	39.5	72.1
Acquisitions		0.5
Utilised	(1.2)	(5.7)
Released to the income statement	(10.3)	(5.7)
Other movements	(58.4)	2.0
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale	(6.2)
Exchange adjustments	(0.6)	2.9
Ending balance	81.5	118.7
Other [member]
Disclosure Of Noncurrent Provisions [line items]
Beginning balance	193.0	176.4
Charged to the income statement	7.6	13.9
Acquisitions	0.7	8.3
Utilised	(12.2)	(20.1)
Released to the income statement	(6.9)	(4.6)
Other movements	9.2	10.9
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale	(18.4)
Exchange adjustments	(6.7)	8.2
Ending balance	£ 166.3	£ 193.0

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Provisions for liabilities and charges - Summary of Provisions for Liabilities and Charges (Parenthetical) (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Disclosure of other provisions [abstract]
Acquisitions provisions from revisions to fair value adjustments	£ 0.7	£ 8.4
Transformation costs with respect to the strategic initiative of co-locations		£ 50.6

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Share-based payments - Charges for Share-based Incentive Plans (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018		Dec. 31, 2017
Disclosure of share based payments [abstract]
Share-based payments	£ 66.0	£ 78.3	[1]	£ 98.3	[1]

[1] Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies.

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Share-based payments - Additional Information (Detail) £ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019 GBP (£) Employees	Dec. 31, 2018 GBP (£)	Dec. 31, 2017 GBP (£)
Restricted stock plans [member]
Disclosure of terms and conditions of share-based payment arrangement [Line items]
Unrecognised compensation cost	£ 140.7	£ 146.0
Fair value of shares vested	£ 90.8	£ 107.2	£ 114.8
Restricted stock plans [member] | Bottom of range [member]
Disclosure of terms and conditions of share-based payment arrangement [Line items]
Unrecognised compensation cost, recognised period	1 year
Restricted stock plans [member] | Top of range [member]
Disclosure of terms and conditions of share-based payment arrangement [Line items]
Unrecognised compensation cost, recognised period	2 years
Executive Performance Share Plan [member]
Disclosure of terms and conditions of share-based payment arrangement [Line items]
Performance period	5 years
Executive Performance Share Plan [member] | Bottom of range [member]
Disclosure of terms and conditions of share-based payment arrangement [Line items]
Threshold performance vesting percentage	20.00%
Compound annual growth percentage	7.00%
Average return on equity percentage	10.00%
Compound annual growth percentage	14.00%
Percentage of total Shareholder Return on vesting period	15.00%
Executive Performance Share Plan [member] | Top of range [member]
Disclosure of terms and conditions of share-based payment arrangement [Line items]
Threshold performance vesting percentage	100.00%
Compound annual growth percentage	14.00%
Average return on equity percentage	14.00%
Compound annual growth percentage	18.00%
Percentage of total Shareholder Return on vesting period	100.00%
Executive Performance Share Plan [member] | Weighted average [member]
Disclosure of terms and conditions of share-based payment arrangement [Line items]
Average return on equity percentage	7.50%
Performance Share Awards [member]
Disclosure of terms and conditions of share-based payment arrangement [Line items]
Vesting period	2 years
Leaders, Partners and High Potential Group [member]
Disclosure of terms and conditions of share-based payment arrangement [Line items]
Vesting period	3 years
Number of key executives participating in restricted stock plans | Employees	1,500

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Share-based payments - Movement on Ordinary Shares Granted for Significant Restricted Stock Plans (Detail) Unit_pure in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019 £ / shares
Executive Performance Share Plan [member]
Disclosure of movement on ordinary shares granted for significant restricted stock plans [line items]
Weighted average fair value, Non-vested beginning balance	£ 13.63
Weighted average fair value, Granted	9.89
Weighted average fair value, Lapsed	13.34
Weighted average fair value, Vested	12.65
Weighted average fair value, Non-vested ending balance	£ 11.98
Number of shares, Non-vested beginning balance	6.7
Number of shares, Granted	4.2
Number of shares, Lapsed	(1.3)
Number of shares, Vested	(0.8)
Number of shares, Non-vested ending balance	8.8
Performance Share Awards [member]
Disclosure of movement on ordinary shares granted for significant restricted stock plans [line items]
Weighted average fair value, Non-vested beginning balance	£ 14.37
Weighted average fair value, Granted	9.26
Weighted average fair value, Lapsed	12.10
Weighted average fair value, Vested	15.72
Weighted average fair value, Non-vested ending balance	£ 10.81
Number of shares, Non-vested beginning balance	2.3
Number of shares, Granted	1.7
Number of shares, Lapsed	(0.4)
Number of shares, Vested	(1.0)
Number of shares, Non-vested ending balance	2.6
Leaders, Partners and High Potential Group [member]
Disclosure of movement on ordinary shares granted for significant restricted stock plans [line items]
Weighted average fair value, Non-vested beginning balance	£ 11.54
Weighted average fair value, Granted	9.09
Weighted average fair value, Lapsed	10.76
Weighted average fair value, Vested	15.51
Weighted average fair value, Non-vested ending balance	£ 9.74
Number of shares, Non-vested beginning balance	9.1
Number of shares, Granted	4.1
Number of shares, Lapsed	(1.9)
Number of shares, Vested	(2.0)
Number of shares, Non-vested ending balance	9.3

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Provision for post-employment benefits - Pension Costs (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	[1]	Dec. 31, 2017	[1]
Disclosure Of Pension Costs [abstract]
Defined contribution plans	£ 154.9	£ 146.7		£ 149.5
Defined benefit plans charge to operating profit	14.8	14.2		11.8
Pension costs (note 5)	169.7	160.9		161.3
Net interest expense on pension plans (note 6)	3.5	3.6		5.4
Pension costs, Net	£ 173.2	£ 164.5		£ 166.7

[1] Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies.

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Provision for post-employment benefits - Additional Information (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Employer contributions (for funded plans) and benefit payments (for unfunded plans)	£ 37.1	£ 44.9	£ 68.2
Employer contributions (for funded plans) and benefit payments (for unfunded plans), expected in 2020.	£ 25.0
Years life expectancy after age 65 - Current pensioners (at age 65) - male [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Actuarial assumption of life expectancy	22 years 2 months 12 days	22 years 2 months 12 days
Years life expectancy after age 65 - Current pensioners (at age 65) - female [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Actuarial assumption of life expectancy	23 years 8 months 12 days	23 years 10 months 24 days
Years life expectancy after age 65 - Future pensioners (current age 45) - male [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Actuarial assumption of life expectancy	23 years 9 months 18 days	24 years
Years life expectancy after age 65 - Future pensioners (current age 45) - female [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Actuarial assumption of life expectancy	25 years 4 months 24 days	25 years 8 months 12 days

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Provision for post-employment benefits - Weighted Average Assumptions Used For Actuarial Valuations (Detail)		Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
United Kingdom [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Discount rate	[1]	2.00%	2.80%	2.40%	2.50%
Rate of increase in salaries	[2]				3.50%
Rate of increase in pensions in payment		4.40%	4.30%	4.10%	4.10%
Inflation		2.60%	2.80%	2.70%	2.80%
North America [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Discount rate	[1]	3.00%	4.10%	3.50%	3.80%
Rate of increase in salaries		3.00%	3.00%	3.10%	3.10%
Inflation				4.00%	4.00%
Western Continental Europe [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Discount rate	[1]	1.20%	2.00%	1.90%	1.70%
Rate of increase in salaries		2.20%	2.30%	1.90%	2.00%
Rate of increase in pensions in payment		1.80%	1.20%	1.20%	1.30%
Inflation		1.70%	1.70%	1.70%	1.70%
Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Discount rate	[1]	4.60%	5.00%	4.20%	4.20%
Rate of increase in salaries		6.10%	5.80%	5.50%	5.90%
Inflation		3.70%	3.60%	4.00%	4.00%

[1] Discount rates are based on high-quality corporate bond yields. In countries where there is no deep market in corporate bonds, the discount rate assumption has been set with regard to the yield on long-term government bonds.

[2] The salary assumptions are no longer applicable to the UK as the plans were either frozen or bought out since 2017. Active participants will not accrue additional benefits for future services under these plans.

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Provision for post-employment benefits - Life Expectancies For Defined Benefit Pension Plans (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Years life expectancy after age 65 - Current pensioners (at age 65) - male [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Actuarial assumption of life expectancy	22 years 2 months 12 days	22 years 2 months 12 days
Years life expectancy after age 65 - Current pensioners (at age 65) - female [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Actuarial assumption of life expectancy	23 years 8 months 12 days	23 years 10 months 24 days
Years life expectancy after age 65 - Future pensioners (current age 45) - male [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Actuarial assumption of life expectancy	23 years 9 months 18 days	24 years
Years life expectancy after age 65 - Future pensioners (current age 45) - female [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Actuarial assumption of life expectancy	25 years 4 months 24 days	25 years 8 months 12 days
North America [member] | Years life expectancy after age 65 - Current pensioners (at age 65) - male [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Actuarial assumption of life expectancy	21 years 10 months 24 days
North America [member] | Years life expectancy after age 65 - Current pensioners (at age 65) - female [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Actuarial assumption of life expectancy	23 years 3 months 18 days
North America [member] | Years life expectancy after age 65 - Future pensioners (current age 45) - male [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Actuarial assumption of life expectancy	23 years 4 months 24 days
North America [member] | Years life expectancy after age 65 - Future pensioners (current age 45) - female [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Actuarial assumption of life expectancy	24 years 10 months 24 days
United Kingdom [member] | Years life expectancy after age 65 - Current pensioners (at age 65) - male [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Actuarial assumption of life expectancy	23 years 1 month 6 days
United Kingdom [member] | Years life expectancy after age 65 - Current pensioners (at age 65) - female [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Actuarial assumption of life expectancy	24 years 1 month 6 days
United Kingdom [member] | Years life expectancy after age 65 - Future pensioners (current age 45) - male [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Actuarial assumption of life expectancy	24 years 8 months 12 days
United Kingdom [member] | Years life expectancy after age 65 - Future pensioners (current age 45) - female [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Actuarial assumption of life expectancy	25 years 10 months 24 days
Western Continental Europe [member] | Years life expectancy after age 65 - Current pensioners (at age 65) - male [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Actuarial assumption of life expectancy	20 years 9 months 18 days
Western Continental Europe [member] | Years life expectancy after age 65 - Current pensioners (at age 65) - female [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Actuarial assumption of life expectancy	23 years 10 months 24 days
Western Continental Europe [member] | Years life expectancy after age 65 - Future pensioners (current age 45) - male [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Actuarial assumption of life expectancy	23 years 2 months 12 days
Western Continental Europe [member] | Years life expectancy after age 65 - Future pensioners (current age 45) - female [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Actuarial assumption of life expectancy	26 years
Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe [member] | Years life expectancy after age 65 - Current pensioners (at age 65) - male [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Actuarial assumption of life expectancy	14 years
Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe [member] | Years life expectancy after age 65 - Current pensioners (at age 65) - female [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Actuarial assumption of life expectancy	17 years 4 months 24 days
Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe [member] | Years life expectancy after age 65 - Future pensioners (current age 45) - male [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Actuarial assumption of life expectancy	14 years
Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe [member] | Years life expectancy after age 65 - Future pensioners (current age 45) - female [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Actuarial assumption of life expectancy	17 years 4 months 24 days

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Provision for post-employment benefits - Weighted Average Duration of Defined Benefit Pension Obligations and Distribution of Timing of Benefit Payments (Detail) £ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019 GBP (£)
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Weighted average duration of defined benefit obligation	11 years 2 months 12 days
Within one year [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Expected benefit payments	£ 51.4
Between one and two years [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Expected benefit payments	45.4
Between two and three years [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Expected benefit payments	46.9
Between three and four years [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Expected benefit payments	44.4
Between four and five years [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Expected benefit payments	42.3
Later than five years and not later than ten years [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Expected benefit payments	£ 216.1
North America [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Weighted average duration of defined benefit obligation	9 years 1 month 6 days
North America [member] | Within one year [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Expected benefit payments	£ 25.1
North America [member] | Between one and two years [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Expected benefit payments	24.5
North America [member] | Between two and three years [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Expected benefit payments	26.0
North America [member] | Between three and four years [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Expected benefit payments	22.3
North America [member] | Between four and five years [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Expected benefit payments	20.9
North America [member] | Later than five years and not later than ten years [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Expected benefit payments	£ 94.7
United Kingdom [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Weighted average duration of defined benefit obligation	13 years 9 months 18 days
United Kingdom [member] | Within one year [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Expected benefit payments	£ 15.8
United Kingdom [member] | Between one and two years [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Expected benefit payments	12.6
United Kingdom [member] | Between two and three years [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Expected benefit payments	12.7
United Kingdom [member] | Between three and four years [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Expected benefit payments	12.9
United Kingdom [member] | Between four and five years [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Expected benefit payments	13.0
United Kingdom [member] | Later than five years and not later than ten years [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Expected benefit payments	£ 67.1
Western Continental Europe [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Weighted average duration of defined benefit obligation	12 years 8 months 12 days
Western Continental Europe [member] | Within one year [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Expected benefit payments	£ 5.8
Western Continental Europe [member] | Between one and two years [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Expected benefit payments	5.5
Western Continental Europe [member] | Between two and three years [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Expected benefit payments	5.8
Western Continental Europe [member] | Between three and four years [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Expected benefit payments	5.7
Western Continental Europe [member] | Between four and five years [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Expected benefit payments	5.6
Western Continental Europe [member] | Later than five years and not later than ten years [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Expected benefit payments	£ 32.6
Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Weighted average duration of defined benefit obligation	8 years 6 months
Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe [member] | Within one year [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Expected benefit payments	£ 4.7
Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe [member] | Between one and two years [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Expected benefit payments	2.8
Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe [member] | Between two and three years [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Expected benefit payments	2.4
Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe [member] | Between three and four years [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Expected benefit payments	3.5
Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe [member] | Between four and five years [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Expected benefit payments	2.8
Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe [member] | Later than five years and not later than ten years [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Expected benefit payments	£ 21.7

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Provision for post-employment benefits - Sensitivity Analysis of Significant Actuarial Assumptions (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Discount rate [member]
Disclosure of sensitivity analysis for actuarial assumptions [line items]
Assumption, basis point increase	0.25%	0.25%
Assumption, basis point decrease	0.25%	0.25%
Discount rate [member] | United Kingdom [member]
Disclosure of sensitivity analysis for actuarial assumptions [line items]
Increase/(decrease) in benefit obligation, due to increase in assumption	£ (8.2)	£ (9.8)
Increase/(decrease) in benefit obligation, due to decrease in assumption	8.5	10.3
Discount rate [member] | North America [member]
Disclosure of sensitivity analysis for actuarial assumptions [line items]
Increase/(decrease) in benefit obligation, due to increase in assumption	(7.5)	(8.8)
Increase/(decrease) in benefit obligation, due to decrease in assumption	7.7	9.1
Discount rate [member] | Western Continental Europe [member]
Disclosure of sensitivity analysis for actuarial assumptions [line items]
Increase/(decrease) in benefit obligation, due to increase in assumption	(3.8)	(8.7)
Increase/(decrease) in benefit obligation, due to decrease in assumption	3.9	9.3
Discount rate [member] | Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe [member]
Disclosure of sensitivity analysis for actuarial assumptions [line items]
Increase/(decrease) in benefit obligation, due to increase in assumption	(0.7)	(0.7)
Increase/(decrease) in benefit obligation, due to decrease in assumption	£ 0.7	£ 0.7
Rate of increase in salaries [member]
Disclosure of sensitivity analysis for actuarial assumptions [line items]
Assumption, basis point increase	0.25%	0.25%
Assumption, basis point decrease	0.25%	0.25%
Rate of increase in salaries [member] | Western Continental Europe [member]
Disclosure of sensitivity analysis for actuarial assumptions [line items]
Increase/(decrease) in benefit obligation, due to increase in assumption	£ 0.8	£ 1.3
Increase/(decrease) in benefit obligation, due to decrease in assumption	(0.8)	(1.2)
Rate of increase in salaries [member] | Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe [member]
Disclosure of sensitivity analysis for actuarial assumptions [line items]
Increase/(decrease) in benefit obligation, due to increase in assumption	0.6	0.7
Increase/(decrease) in benefit obligation, due to decrease in assumption	£ (0.6)	£ (0.6)
Rate of increase in pensions in payment [member]
Disclosure of sensitivity analysis for actuarial assumptions [line items]
Assumption, basis point increase	0.25%	0.25%
Assumption, basis point decrease	0.25%	0.25%
Rate of increase in pensions in payment [member] | United Kingdom [member]
Disclosure of sensitivity analysis for actuarial assumptions [line items]
Increase/(decrease) in benefit obligation, due to increase in assumption	£ 0.7	£ 1.3
Increase/(decrease) in benefit obligation, due to decrease in assumption	(0.6)	(0.8)
Rate of increase in pensions in payment [member] | Western Continental Europe [member]
Disclosure of sensitivity analysis for actuarial assumptions [line items]
Increase/(decrease) in benefit obligation, due to increase in assumption	1.9	5.3
Increase/(decrease) in benefit obligation, due to decrease in assumption	£ (1.9)	£ (5.0)
Life expectancy [member]
Disclosure of sensitivity analysis for actuarial assumptions [line items]
Assumption, increase in longevity	1 year	1 year
Life expectancy [member] | United Kingdom [member]
Disclosure of sensitivity analysis for actuarial assumptions [line items]
Increase/(decrease) in benefit obligation, due to increase in assumption	£ 11.7	£ 13.6
Life expectancy [member] | North America [member]
Disclosure of sensitivity analysis for actuarial assumptions [line items]
Increase/(decrease) in benefit obligation, due to increase in assumption	5.9	5.7
Life expectancy [member] | Western Continental Europe [member]
Disclosure of sensitivity analysis for actuarial assumptions [line items]
Increase/(decrease) in benefit obligation, due to increase in assumption	£ 4.3	£ 6.9

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Provision for post-employment benefits - Fair Value of Assets and Assessed Present Value of Liabilities in Pension Plans (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [abstract]
Fair value of assets allocation, Equities	9.10%	9.10%	13.40%
Fair value of assets allocation, Bonds	44.80%	64.80%	55.90%
Fair value of assets allocation, Insured annuities	39.30%	10.80%	19.20%
Fair value of assets allocation, Property	0.10%	0.10%	0.10%
Fair value of assets allocation, Cash	2.90%	3.70%	1.10%
Fair value of assets allocation, Other	3.80%	11.50%	10.30%
Total fair value of assets allocation	100.00%	100.00%	100.00%
Fair value of assets, Equities	£ 55.5	£ 76.5	£ 124.6
Fair value of assets, Bonds	272.5	544.9	520.0
Fair value of assets, Insured annuities	239.1	90.9	178.5
Fair value of assets, Property	0.7	0.9	1.3
Fair value of assets, Cash	17.7	31.1	9.9
Fair value of assets, Other	23.0	96.3	95.7
Total fair value of assets	608.5	840.6	930.0
Present value of liabilities	(767.5)	(1,024.0)	(1,135.4)
Deficit in the plans	(159.0)	(183.4)	(205.4)
Irrecoverable surplus	0.0	(0.9)	(0.9)
Net liability	(159.0)	(184.3)	(206.3)
Plans in surplus	20.6	42.8	43.9
Plans in deficit	£ (179.6)	£ (227.1)	£ (250.2)

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Provision for post-employment benefits - Surplus/(Deficit) in Plans by Region (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Surplus/(deficit) in plans	£ (159.0)	£ (183.4)	£ (205.4)
United Kingdom [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Surplus/(deficit) in plans	0.3	33.7	31.5
North America [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Surplus/(deficit) in plans	(45.2)	(68.7)	(89.2)
Western Continental Europe [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Surplus/(deficit) in plans	(79.4)	(104.6)	(107.7)
Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Surplus/(deficit) in plans	£ (34.7)	£ (43.8)	£ (40.0)

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Provision for post-employment benefits - Funded and Unfunded Pension Plans By Region (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Surplus/ (deficit)	£ (159.0)	£ (183.4)	£ (205.4)
Present value of liabilities	(767.5)	(1,024.0)	(1,135.4)
United Kingdom [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Surplus/ (deficit)	0.3	33.7	31.5
North America [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Surplus/ (deficit)	(45.2)	(68.7)	(89.2)
Western Continental Europe [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Surplus/ (deficit)	(79.4)	(104.6)	(107.7)
Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Surplus/ (deficit)	(34.7)	(43.8)	(40.0)
Funded defined benefit plans [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Surplus/ (deficit)	(23.8)	(13.3)	(32.0)
Present value of liabilities	(632.3)	(853.9)	(962.0)
Funded defined benefit plans [member] | United Kingdom [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Surplus/ (deficit)	0.3	33.7	31.5
Present value of liabilities	(247.6)	(290.5)	(387.5)
Funded defined benefit plans [member] | North America [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Surplus/ (deficit)	12.8	(4.6)	(21.4)
Present value of liabilities	(286.2)	(375.3)	(385.4)
Funded defined benefit plans [member] | Western Continental Europe [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Surplus/ (deficit)	(33.3)	(35.8)	(37.9)
Present value of liabilities	(77.6)	(168.4)	(173.3)
Funded defined benefit plans [member] | Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Surplus/ (deficit)	(3.6)	(6.6)	(4.2)
Present value of liabilities	(20.9)	(19.7)	(15.8)
Unfunded defined benefit plans [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Surplus/ (deficit)	(135.2)	(170.1)	(173.4)
Present value of liabilities	(135.2)	(170.1)	(173.4)
Unfunded defined benefit plans [member] | North America [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Surplus/ (deficit)	(58.0)	(64.1)	(67.8)
Present value of liabilities	(58.0)	(64.1)	(67.8)
Unfunded defined benefit plans [member] | Western Continental Europe [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Surplus/ (deficit)	(46.1)	(68.8)	(69.8)
Present value of liabilities	(46.1)	(68.8)	(69.8)
Unfunded defined benefit plans [member] | Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa & Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe [member]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Surplus/ (deficit)	(31.1)	(37.2)	(35.8)
Present value of liabilities	£ (31.1)	£ (37.2)	£ (35.8)

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Provision for post-employment benefits - Pension Expense Charged to Operating Profit, Amounts Charged to Finance Costs and Amounts Recognised in Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income (OCI) (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018		Dec. 31, 2017
Disclosure of net defined benefit (liability) asset
Service cost	[1]	£ 12.9	£ 12.0	[2]	£ 9.4	[2]
Administrative expenses		1.9	2.2	[2]	2.4	[2]
Charge to operating profit		14.8	14.2	[2]	11.8	[2]
Net interest expense on pension plans		3.5	3.6	[2]	5.4	[2]
Charge to profit before taxation for defined benefit plans		18.3	17.8	[2]	17.2	[2]
Actuarial (loss)/gain recognised in OCI	[3]	(36.6)	8.9		17.0
Post employment pension other comprehensive income [member]
Disclosure of net defined benefit (liability) asset
Return on plan assets (excluding interest income)		16.7	(43.9)		13.4
Changes in demographic assumptions underlying the present value of the plan liabilities		5.9	3.8		12.7
Changes in financial assumptions underlying the present value of the plan liabilities		(64.3)	45.2		(17.0)
Experience gain arising on the plan liabilities		5.1	3.8		7.9
Actuarial (loss)/gain recognised in OCI		£ (36.6)	£ 8.9		£ 17.0

[1] Includes current service cost, past service costs related to plan amendments and (gain)/loss on settlements and curtailments.

[2] Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies.

[3] Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

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Provision for post-employment benefits - Movement in Pension Plan Liabilities (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Disclosure of net defined benefit (liability) asset
Plan liabilities at beginning of year		£ 184.3	£ 206.3
Plan liabilities at end of year		159.0	184.3	£ 206.3
Retirement benefit obligation [member]
Disclosure of net defined benefit (liability) asset
Plan liabilities at beginning of year		1,024.0	1,135.4	1,209.8
Service cost	[1]	14.9	15.5	13.0
Interest cost		26.2	30.7	32.9
Effect of changes in demographic assumptions		(5.9)	(3.8)	(12.7)
Effect of changes in financial assumptions		64.3	(45.2)	17.0
Effect of experience adjustments		(5.1)	(3.8)	(7.9)
Benefits paid	[2]	(140.8)	(75.6)	(79.7)
(Gain)/loss due to exchange rate movements		(22.7)	30.0	(36.4)
Settlement payments	[3]	(47.4)	(70.4)	(1.2)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(148.0)
Other	[4]	8.0	11.2	0.6
Plan liabilities at end of year		£ 767.5	£ 1,024.0	£ 1,135.4

[1] Includes current service cost, past service costs related to plan amendments and (gain)/loss on settlements and curtailments.

[2] In 2019, there was an amendment to a US defined benefit plan that allowed certain participants to receive immediate lump sum pay-outs, which totalled £69.7 million.

[3] In 2019 and 2018, the Group completed the transfer of the defined benefit obligations for certain UK plans to an insurer resulting in £47.1 million and £70.4 million, respectively, in settlement payments.

[4] Other includes acquisitions, disposals, plan participants’ contributions and reclassifications. The reclassifications represent certain of the Group’s defined benefit plans which are included in this note for the first time in the periods presented.

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Provision for post-employment benefits - Movement in Pension Plan Liabilities (Parenthetical) (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Plan assets [member]
Disclosure of net defined benefit (liability) asset
Settlement payments	[1]	£ (47.4)	£ (70.4)	£ (1.2)
United Kingdom [member]
Disclosure of net defined benefit (liability) asset
Settlement payments		47.1	£ 70.4
United States [member] | Plan assets [member]
Disclosure of net defined benefit (liability) asset
Defined Benefit Plan, Lump Sum Payouts		£ 69.7

[1] In 2019 and 2018, the Group completed the transfer of the defined benefit obligations for certain UK plans to an insurer resulting in £47.1 million and £70.4 million, respectively, in settlement payments.

XML

Provision for post-employment benefits - Movement in Pension Plan Assets (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018		Dec. 31, 2017
Disclosure of net defined benefit (liability) asset
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year		£ (184.3)	£ (206.3)
Employer contributions		(37.1)	(44.9)		£ (68.2)
Administrative expenses		(1.9)	(2.2)	[1]	(2.4)	[1]
Fair value of plan assets at end of year		(159.0)	(184.3)		(206.3)
Plan assets [member]
Disclosure of net defined benefit (liability) asset
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year		840.6	930.0		934.2
Interest income on plan assets		22.4	26.3		26.6
Return on plan assets (excluding interest income)		16.7	(43.9)		13.4
Employer contributions		37.1	44.9		68.2
Benefits paid	[2]	(140.8)	(75.6)		(79.7)
(Loss)/gain due to exchange rate movements		(15.7)	23.0		(28.7)
Settlement payments	[3]	(47.4)	(70.4)		(1.2)
Administrative expenses		(2.1)	(3.4)		(3.1)
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale		(111.1)
Other	[4]	8.8	9.7		0.3
Fair value of plan assets at end of year		608.5	840.6		930.0
Actual return on plan assets		£ 39.1	£ (17.6)		£ 40.0

[1] Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies.

[2] In 2019, there was an amendment to a US defined benefit plan that allowed certain participants to receive immediate lump sum pay-outs, which totalled £69.7 million.

[3] In 2019 and 2018, the Group completed the transfer of the defined benefit obligations for certain UK plans to an insurer resulting in £47.1 million and £70.4 million, respectively, in settlement payments.

[4] Other includes acquisitions, disposals, plan participants’ contributions and reclassifications. The reclassifications represent certain of the Group’s defined benefit plans which are included in this note for the first time in the periods presented.

XML

Provision for post-employment benefits - Movement in Pension Plan Assets (Parenthetical) (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Plan assets [member]
Disclosure of net defined benefit (liability) asset
Settlement payments	[1]	£ (47.4)	£ (70.4)	£ (1.2)
United Kingdom [member]
Disclosure of net defined benefit (liability) asset
Settlement payments		47.1	£ 70.4
United States [member] | Plan assets [member]
Disclosure of net defined benefit (liability) asset
Defined Benefit Plan, Lump Sum Payouts		£ 69.7

[1] In 2019 and 2018, the Group completed the transfer of the defined benefit obligations for certain UK plans to an insurer resulting in £47.1 million and £70.4 million, respectively, in settlement payments.

XML

Event after the reporting period - Additional Information (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Text block [abstract]
Undrawn borrowing facilities	£ 2,005.6	£ 2,074.7

XML

Risk management policies - Additional Information (Detail) € in Millions, £ in Millions, $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019 GBP (£)	Dec. 31, 2018 GBP (£)	Dec. 31, 2019 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2019 EUR (€)	Dec. 31, 2018 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2018 EUR (€)
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Borrowings	£ 4,272.9	£ 6,217.9
Total committed facilities available	£ 6,309.8
Borrowings average maturity term	8 years 2 months 12 days
Eurobonds (3m EURIBOR + 0.32%) due May 2020 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Total committed facilities available	£ 211.6			€ 250
Borrowings Maturity Term	2 years
Interest rate risk [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Percentage increase in market interest rate	1.00%	1.00%
Potential amount of change due to an increase or decrease in risk	£ 22.6	£ 7.2
Percentage decrease in market interest rate	1.00%	1.00%
US dollar borrowings [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Borrowings | $			$ 1,563		$ 2,784
US dollar borrowings [member] | Weighted average [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Borrowings | $			$ 2,509		$ 3,377
US dollar borrowings [member] | Fixed interest rate [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Percentage of debt	100.00%
Borrowings interest rate	4.06%		4.06%	4.06%
Average period of debt	95 months
Sterling Borrowings [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Borrowings	£ 844.0	£ 1,044.0
Sterling Borrowings [member] | Weighted average [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Borrowings	£ 947.0	£ 1,039.0
Sterling Borrowings [member] | Fixed interest rate [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Percentage of debt	100.00%
Borrowings interest rate	2.73%		2.73%	2.73%
Average period of debt	188 months
Sterling Borrowings [member] | Currency risk [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Percentage weakening of sterling against major currencies	10.00%		10.00%	10.00%
Percentage increase of sterling against major currencies	10.00%		10.00%	10.00%
Euro Borrowings [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Borrowings | €				€ 2,600		€ 3,200
Euro Borrowings [member] | Weighted average [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Borrowings | €				€ 3,128		€ 3,202
Euro Borrowings [member] | Fixed interest rate [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Percentage of debt	80.80%
Borrowings interest rate	2.34%		2.34%	2.34%
Average period of debt	82 months
Euro Borrowings [member] | Floating interest rate [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Percentage of debt	19.20%
Borrowings interest rate	0.06%		0.06%	0.06%
Average period of debt	16 months

XML

Risk management policies - Committed Facilities (Detail) € in Millions, £ in Millions, $ in Millions, $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019 GBP (£)	Dec. 31, 2019 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2019 EUR (€)	Dec. 31, 2019 AUD ($)	Dec. 31, 2018 GBP (£)
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Total committed facilities available	£ 6,309.8
Drawn down facilities	4,304.2
Undrawn committed credit facilities	2,005.6				£ 2,074.7
Sterling bonds due September 2046 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Total committed facilities available	£ 400.0
Interest rate	2.875%	2.875%	2.875%	2.875%
US$ bonds due November 2043 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Total committed facilities available	£ 165.8	$ 220
Interest rate	5.625%	5.625%	5.625%	5.625%
US$ bonds due September 2042 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Total committed facilities available	£ 70.0	$ 93
Interest rate	5.125%	5.125%	5.125%	5.125%
Euro bonds due March 2030 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Total committed facilities available	£ 507.9		€ 600
Interest rate	1.625%	1.625%	1.625%	1.625%
Euro bonds due September 2026 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Total committed facilities available	£ 634.9		€ 750
Interest rate	2.25%	2.25%	2.25%	2.25%
US$ bonds due September 2024 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Total committed facilities available	£ 565.5	$ 750
Interest rate	3.75%	3.75%	3.75%	3.75%
Bank revolver due 2024 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Total committed facilities available	£ 1,884.9	$ 2,500
Euro bonds due November 2023 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Total committed facilities available	£ 634.9		€ 750
Interest rate	3.00%	3.00%	3.00%	3.00%
US$ bonds due September 2022 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Total committed facilities available	£ 377.0	$ 500
Interest rate	3.625%	3.625%	3.625%	3.625%
Eurobonds (3m EURIBOR + 0.32%) due May 2020 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Adjustment to floating basis	0.32%	0.32%	0.32%	0.32%
Floating basis	3m EURIBOR
Total committed facilities available	£ 211.6		€ 250
Australian New Zealand revolving credit facilities [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Total committed facilities available	222.4
Euro bonds due 2025 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Total committed facilities available	£ 423.3		€ 500
Interest rate	1.375%	1.375%	1.375%	1.375%
Eurobonds (3m EURIBOR + 0.45%) due March 2022 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Adjustment to floating basis	0.45%	0.45%	0.45%	0.45%
Floating basis	3m EURIBOR
Total committed facilities available	£ 211.6		€ 250
Australian revolving credit facilities due 2020 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Total committed facilities available | $				$ 150
Australian revolving credit facilities due 2021 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Total committed facilities available | $				$ 270
Within one year [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Total committed facilities available	291.0
Drawn down facilities	216.9
Within one year [member] | Eurobonds (3m EURIBOR + 0.32%) due May 2020 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Total committed facilities available	211.6
Within one year [member] | Australian New Zealand revolving credit facilities [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Total committed facilities available	79.4
Between one and two years [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Total committed facilities available	143.0
Drawn down facilities	96.4
Between one and two years [member] | Australian New Zealand revolving credit facilities [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Total committed facilities available	143.0
Between two and three years [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Total committed facilities available	588.6
Drawn down facilities	588.6
Between two and three years [member] | US$ bonds due September 2022 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Total committed facilities available	377.0
Between two and three years [member] | Eurobonds (3m EURIBOR 0.45%) due March 2022 [Member]
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Total committed facilities available	211.6		€ 250
Between three and four years [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Total committed facilities available	634.9
Drawn down facilities	634.9
Between three and four years [member] | Euro bonds due November 2023 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Total committed facilities available	634.9
Later than four years [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Total committed facilities available	4,652.3
Drawn down facilities	2,767.4
Later than four years [member] | Sterling bonds due September 2046 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Total committed facilities available	400.0
Later than four years [member] | US$ bonds due November 2043 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Total committed facilities available	165.8
Later than four years [member] | US$ bonds due September 2042 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Total committed facilities available	70.0
Later than four years [member] | Euro bonds due March 2030 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Total committed facilities available	507.9
Later than four years [member] | Euro bonds due September 2026 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Total committed facilities available	634.9
Later than four years [member] | US$ bonds due September 2024 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Total committed facilities available	565.5
Later than four years [member] | Bank revolver due 2024 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Total committed facilities available	1,884.9
Later than four years [member] | Euro bonds due 2025 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Total committed facilities available	£ 423.3

XML

Risk management policies - Summary of currency risk (Detail) - Currency risk [member] - GBP (£) £ in Millions		Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Euro [member]
Disclosure of risk management strategy related to hedge accounting [line items]
Accumulated fair value hedge adjustment on hedged item included in carrying amount, assets	[1]	£ 153.0	£ 211.4
US dollar [member]
Disclosure of risk management strategy related to hedge accounting [line items]
Accumulated fair value hedge adjustment on hedged item included in carrying amount, assets	[1]	£ 240.5	£ 278.1

[1] Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

XML

Financial instruments - Additional Information (Detail) € in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019 GBP (£)	Dec. 31, 2019 EUR (€)	Dec. 31, 2018 GBP (£)	Dec. 31, 2018 USD ($)
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Nominal amount	£ 6,309,800,000
Weighted average growth rate	19.50%		22.70%	22.70%
Risk adjusted discount rate	4.10%		3.20%	3.20%
An increase or decrease in the multiple of one times revenue [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Increase or decrease in fair value of other investments	£ 53,600,000
Increase decrease on Income statement due to change in fair value of other investment	3,300,000
Increase decrease on equity due to change in fair value of other investment	50,300,000
One percentage point increase or decrease [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Increase in combined liabilities due to earn out and put option arrangement	3,800,000		£ 5,800,000
Decrease in combined liabilities due to earn out and put option arrangement	6,600,000		8,700,000
0.5 percentage point increase or decrease [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Increase in combined liabilities due to earn out and put option arrangement	4,000,000		6,400,000
Decrease in combined liabilities due to earn out and put option arrangement	3,900,000		6,300,000
Interest Rate Swap Contract [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Fair value estimated to be a net asset (liability)	0		14,200,000
Gain (loss) on changes in the fair value relating to the ineffective portion	1,000,000		900,000
Gain (loss) on changes in the fair value relating to the ineffective portion, loss on hedging instruments	(13,300,000)
Gain (loss) on changes in the fair value relating to the ineffective portion, gain on hedged items	14,300,000
Interest Rate Swap Contract [member] | Trade and other receivable [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Derivative assets	0
Interest Rate Swap Contract [member] | Trade and Other Payable [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Derivative liabilities	£ 0		14,200,000
Interest Rate Swap Contract [member] | Until September 2022 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Nominal amount | $				$ 500,000,000
Interest Rate Swap Contract [member] | Fixed interest rate [member] | Until September 2022 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Derivative interest rates	3.63%	3.63%
Interest Rate Swap Contract [member] | Fixed interest rate [member] | Until November 2021 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Derivative interest rates	4.75%	4.75%
Interest Rate Swap Contract [member] | Floating interest rate [member] | Until September 2022 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Derivative interest rates, LIBOR adjustment	1.52%	1.52%
Interest Rate Swap Contract [member] | Floating interest rate [member] | Until November 2021 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Derivative interest rates, LIBOR adjustment	2.34%	2.34%
Contracts due in March 2025 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Receipts | €		€ 500.0
Payments	£ 444,100,000
Derivatives in designated hedge relationships [member] | Foreign Exchange Contracts [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Fair value estimated to be a net asset (liability)	(21,200,000)		8,400,000
Derivatives in designated hedge relationships [member] | Foreign Exchange Contracts [member] | Trade and other receivable [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Derivative assets	0		8,400,000
Derivatives in designated hedge relationships [member] | Foreign Exchange Contracts [member] | Trade and Other Payable [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Derivative liabilities	21,200,000		0
Derivatives not designated as hedges [member] | Foreign Exchange Contracts [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Fair value estimated to be a net asset (liability)	(100,000)		(1,300,000)
Nominal amount	£ 151,700,000		£ 296,100,000

XML

Financial instruments - Analysis of Financial Assets and Liabilities (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions		Dec. 31, 2019		Dec. 31, 2018		Dec. 31, 2017
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Other investments	[1]	£ 498.3		£ 666.7		£ 1,153.5
Cash and short-term deposits	[1]	11,305.7		11,065.8		11,851.0
Bank overdrafts, bonds and bank loans	[1]	(8,798.0)	[2]	(9,447.7)	[2]	(10,083.7)
Bonds and bank loans	[1]	(4,047.3)		(5,634.8)		(6,250.4)
Payments due to vendors (earnout agreements) (note 20)		(243.7)	[3]	(400.8)	[3]	£ (584.5)
Derivatives in designated hedge relationships [member] | Classification under IFRS 9 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Derivative liabilities				(14.2)
Financial instruments				(14.2)
Held at fair value through profit or loss [member] | Classification under IFRS 9 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Other investments		255.7		319.6
Derivative assets		1.4		9.7
Derivative liabilities		(22.7)	[1]	(2.6)
Payments due to vendors (earnout agreements) (note 20)	[3]	(243.7)		(400.8)
Liabilities in respect of put options	[3]	(204.5)		(208.0)
Financial instruments		(213.8)		(282.1)
Held at fair value through other comprehensive income [member] | Classification under IFRS 9 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Other investments		242.6		347.1
Financial instruments		242.6		347.1
Amortised cost [member] | Classification under IFRS 9 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Cash and short-term deposits	[2]	11,305.7		11,065.8
Bank overdrafts, bonds and bank loans	[2]	(8,798.0)		(9,447.7)
Bonds and bank loans		(4,047.3)		(5,634.8)
Trade and other receivables: amounts falling due within one year		7,530.8		8,545.6
Trade and other receivables: amounts falling due after more than one year		59.3		68.3
Trade and other payables: amounts falling due within one year		(10,191.6)		(10,637.3)
Trade and other payables: amounts falling due after more than one year		(2.6)		(8.4)
Financial instruments		(4,143.7)		(6,048.5)
Carrying value [member] | Classification under IFRS 9 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Other investments		498.3		666.7
Cash and short-term deposits	[2]	11,305.7		11,065.8
Bank overdrafts, bonds and bank loans	[2]	(8,798.0)		(9,447.7)
Bonds and bank loans		(4,047.3)		(5,634.8)
Trade and other receivables: amounts falling due within one year		7,530.8		8,545.6
Trade and other receivables: amounts falling due after more than one year		59.3		68.3
Trade and other payables: amounts falling due within one year		(10,191.6)		(10,637.3)
Trade and other payables: amounts falling due after more than one year		(2.6)		(8.4)
Derivative assets		1.4		9.7
Derivative liabilities		(22.7)	[1]	(16.8)
Payments due to vendors (earnout agreements) (note 20)	[3]	(243.7)		(400.8)
Liabilities in respect of put options	[3]	(204.5)		(208.0)
Financial instruments		£ (4,114.9)		£ (5,997.7)

[1] Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

[2] Figures have been restated to be in accordance with IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, as described in the accounting policies of the consolidated financial statements.

[3] Figures have been restated to be in accordance with IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, as described in the accounting policies.

XML

Financial instruments - Analysis of Financial Instruments Measured at Fair Value (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2019		Dec. 31, 2018		Dec. 31, 2017
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Beginning balance	[1]	£ 666.7		£ 1,153.5
Payments due to vendors (earnout agreements) (note 20)		(243.7)	[2]	(400.8)	[2]	£ (584.5)
Ending balance	[1]	498.3		666.7
At Fair Value [member] | Level 1 [member] | Held at fair value through profit or loss [member] | Other investments [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Beginning balance		0.4
Ending balance				0.4
At Fair Value [member] | Level 1 [member] | Held at fair value through other comprehensive income [member] | Other investments [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Beginning balance		128.1
Ending balance		42.2		128.1
At Fair Value [member] | Level 2 [member] | Derivatives in designated hedge relationships [member] | Derivatives Liabilities [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Derivative liabilities				(14.2)
At Fair Value [member] | Level 2 [member] | Held at fair value through profit or loss [member] | Derivatives Liabilities [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Derivative liabilities		(22.7)	[1]	(2.6)
At Fair Value [member] | Level 2 [member] | Held at fair value through profit or loss [member] | Derivatives Assets [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Derivative assets		1.4	[1]	1.3
At Fair Value [member] | Level 3 [member] | Liabilities in Respect of Put Options [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Beginning balance	[1]			(221.7)
At Fair Value [member] | Level 3 [member] | Held for trading [member] | Liabilities in Respect of Put Options [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Beginning balance	[1]	(208.0)
Losses recognised in other comprehensive income	[1]	(30.1)		26.0
Exchange adjustments	[1]	6.9		1.1
Additions	[1]	(34.8)		(37.4)
Cancellations	[1]	9.7		2.2
Transfer to disposal group classified as held for sale	[1]	31.0
Settlements	[1]	20.8		21.8
Ending balance	[1]	(204.5)		(208.0)
At Fair Value [member] | Level 3 [member] | Equity investments [member] | Other investments [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Beginning balance		538.2		820.3
Gains recognised in the income statement		9.1		61.1
Losses recognised in other comprehensive income		(55.4)		(140.6)
Additions		18.2		35.0
Disposals		(53.4)		(237.3)
Reclassifications from other investments to interests in associates				(0.3)
Transfer To Disposal Group Classified As Held For Sale		(0.6)
Ending balance		456.1		538.2
At Fair Value [member] | Level 3 [member] | Held at fair value through profit or loss [member] | Trade And Other Payables To Trade Suppliers [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Payments due to vendors (earnout agreements) (note 20)		(243.7)	[2]	(400.8)
At Fair Value [member] | Level 3 [member] | Held at fair value through profit or loss [member] | Liabilities in Respect of Put Options [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Liabilities in respect of put options		(204.5)	[2]	(208.0)
At Fair Value [member] | Level 3 [member] | Held at fair value through profit or loss [member] | Other investments [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Beginning balance		255.7	[2]	319.2
Ending balance	[2]			255.7
At Fair Value [member] | Level 3 [member] | Held at fair value through other comprehensive income [member] | Other investments [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Beginning balance		219.0
Ending balance		£ 200.4	[2]	£ 219.0

[1] Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

[2] Figures have been restated to be in accordance with IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, as described in the accounting policies.

XML

Authorised and issued share capital - Summary of Authorised and Issued Share Capital (Detail) £ in Millions		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2019 GBP (£) shares	Dec. 31, 2018 GBP (£) shares	Dec. 31, 2017 GBP (£) shares	Dec. 31, 2016 GBP (£) shares
Disclosure of classes of share capital [line items]
Issued and fully paid capital, Beginning balance	[1]	£ 133.3	£ 133.3
Share cancellations	[1]	(47.7)
Issued and fully paid capital, Ending balance	[1]	£ 132.8	£ 133.3	£ 133.3
Ordinary shares [member]
Disclosure of classes of share capital [line items]
Equity ordinary shares, authorised | shares		1,750,000,000	1,750,000,000	1,750,000,000	1,750,000,000
Nominal value of Authorised shares		£ 175.0	£ 175.0	£ 175.0	£ 175.0
Number of shares issued and fully paid, Beginning balance | shares		1,332,678,227	1,332,511,552	1,331,880,730
Exercise of share options | shares		75,625	166,675	630,822
Share cancellations | shares		(4,586,039)
Number of shares issued and fully paid, Ending balance | shares		1,328,167,813	1,332,678,227	1,332,511,552
Issued and fully paid capital, Beginning balance		£ 133.3	£ 133.3	£ 133.2
Exercise of share options				0.1
Share cancellations		(0.5)
Issued and fully paid capital, Ending balance		£ 132.8	£ 133.3	£ 133.3

[1] Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

XML

Authorised and issued share capital - Additional Information (Detail) £ / shares in Units, £ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019 GBP (£) shares ADRs yr £ / shares $ / ADRs	Dec. 31, 2018 GBP (£) £ / shares $ / ADRs shares	Dec. 31, 2017 £ / shares $ / ADRs
Disclosure of classes of share capital [line items]
Share option granted in Life | yr	10
WPP Share Option Plan 2015 [member] | Bottom of range [member]
Disclosure of classes of share capital [line items]
Threshold period for employment participation in employee stock ownership plan	2 years
WPP Worldwide Share Ownership Program [member]
Disclosure of classes of share capital [line items]
Vesting period	3 years
WPP Worldwide Share Ownership Program [member] | Bottom of range [member]
Disclosure of classes of share capital [line items]
Threshold period for employment participation in employee stock ownership plan	2 years
Executive Stock Option Plan [member]
Disclosure of classes of share capital [line items]
Vesting period	3 years
Share option performance effect	Nine years and eight months
Ordinary shares [member]
Disclosure of classes of share capital [line items]
Number of the ordinary shares of the Company held by the ESOP	9,219,837	14,820,994
Market value of the ordinary shares of the Company held by the ESOP | £	£ 98.3	£ 125.5
Number of ordinary shares held in treasury	70,787,730	70,854,553
Ordinary shares held in Treasury at market value | £	£ 755.0	£ 599.9
Average share price | £ / shares	£ 9.39	£ 11.56	£ 15.86
Ordinary shares [member] | WPP Share Option Plan 2015 [member]
Disclosure of classes of share capital [line items]
Number of ordinary shares under option	13,413,425
Ordinary shares [member] | WPP Executive Share Option Scheme [member]
Disclosure of classes of share capital [line items]
Number of ordinary shares under option	6,741
Ordinary shares [member] | WPP Worldwide Share Ownership Program [member]
Disclosure of classes of share capital [line items]
Number of ordinary shares under option	2,757,654
American depository receipts [member]
Disclosure of classes of share capital [line items]
Average ADR Price | $ / ADRs	59.93	77.31	101.86
American depository receipts [member] | WPP Share Option Plan 2015 [member]
Disclosure of classes of share capital [line items]
Unexercised options | ADRs	1,396,745
American depository receipts [member] | WPP Worldwide Share Ownership Program [member]
Disclosure of classes of share capital [line items]
Unexercised options | ADRs	388,854
Share purchase options [member]
Disclosure of classes of share capital [line items]
Unrecognised compensation costs related to share options | £	£ 7.3	£ 8.5
Unrecognised compensation cost related to share options, weighted average period	19 months	20 months

XML

Authorised and issued share capital - Options Granted, WPP Executive Share Option Scheme (Detail) - Ordinary shares [member]	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019 shares £ / shares	Dec. 31, 2018 shares
Disclosure of range of exercise prices of outstanding share options [line items]
Number of ordinary shares under option	25,105,815	24,218,615
WPP Executive Share Option Scheme [member]
Disclosure of range of exercise prices of outstanding share options [line items]
Number of ordinary shares under option	6,741	6,741
WPP Executive Share Option Scheme [member] | Exercise price group 1 [member]
Disclosure of range of exercise prices of outstanding share options [line items]
Number of ordinary shares under option	3,696
Exercise price per share | £ / shares	£ 8.333
Exercise dates	2015 - 2022
WPP Executive Share Option Scheme [member] | Exercise price group 2 [member]
Disclosure of range of exercise prices of outstanding share options [line items]
Number of ordinary shares under option	3,045
Exercise price per share | £ / shares	£ 10.595
Exercise dates	2016 - 2023

XML

Authorised and issued share capital - Options Granted, WPP Worldwide Share Ownership Program (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019 shares ADRs £ / shares $ / ADRs	Dec. 31, 2018 shares
Ordinary shares [member]
Disclosure of range of exercise prices of outstanding share options [line items]
Number of ordinary shares under option	25,105,815	24,218,615
WPP Worldwide Share Ownership Program [member] | Ordinary shares [member]
Disclosure of range of exercise prices of outstanding share options [line items]
Number of ordinary shares under option	4,701,924	5,520,774
WPP Worldwide Share Ownership Program [member] | Exercise price group 1 [member] | Ordinary shares [member]
Disclosure of range of exercise prices of outstanding share options [line items]
Number of ordinary shares under option	82,650
Exercise price per share | £ / shares	£ 6.268
Exercise dates	2014 - 2021
WPP Worldwide Share Ownership Program [member] | Exercise price group 1 [member] | American depository receipts [member]
Disclosure of range of exercise prices of outstanding share options [line items]
Number of ADRs under option | ADRs	24,550
Exercise dates	2014 - 2021
Exercise price per ADR | $ / ADRs	49.230
WPP Worldwide Share Ownership Program [member] | Exercise price group 2 [member] | Ordinary shares [member]
Disclosure of range of exercise prices of outstanding share options [line items]
Number of ordinary shares under option	36,500
Exercise price per share | £ / shares	£ 6.268
Exercise dates	2015 - 2021
WPP Worldwide Share Ownership Program [member] | Exercise price group 2 [member] | American depository receipts [member]
Disclosure of range of exercise prices of outstanding share options [line items]
Number of ADRs under option | ADRs	16,530
Exercise dates	2013 - 2020
Exercise price per ADR | $ / ADRs	56.560
WPP Worldwide Share Ownership Program [member] | Exercise price group 3 [member] | Ordinary shares [member]
Disclosure of range of exercise prices of outstanding share options [line items]
Number of ordinary shares under option	53,150
Exercise price per share | £ / shares	£ 7.113
Exercise dates	2013 - 2020
WPP Worldwide Share Ownership Program [member] | Exercise price group 3 [member] | American depository receipts [member]
Disclosure of range of exercise prices of outstanding share options [line items]
Number of ADRs under option | ADRs	39,184
Exercise dates	2015 - 2022
Exercise price per ADR | $ / ADRs	67.490
WPP Worldwide Share Ownership Program [member] | Exercise price group 4 [member] | Ordinary shares [member]
Disclosure of range of exercise prices of outstanding share options [line items]
Number of ordinary shares under option	25,750
Exercise price per share | £ / shares	£ 7.113
Exercise dates	2014 - 2020
WPP Worldwide Share Ownership Program [member] | Exercise price group 4 [member] | American depository receipts [member]
Disclosure of range of exercise prices of outstanding share options [line items]
Number of ADRs under option | ADRs	166,655
Exercise dates	2017 - 2024
Exercise price per ADR | $ / ADRs	102.670
WPP Worldwide Share Ownership Program [member] | Exercise price group 5 [member] | Ordinary shares [member]
Disclosure of range of exercise prices of outstanding share options [line items]
Number of ordinary shares under option	194,079
Exercise price per share | £ / shares	£ 8.458
Exercise dates	2015 - 2022
WPP Worldwide Share Ownership Program [member] | Exercise price group 5 [member] | American depository receipts [member]
Disclosure of range of exercise prices of outstanding share options [line items]
Number of ADRs under option | ADRs	141,935
Exercise dates	2016 - 2023
Exercise price per ADR | $ / ADRs	110.760
WPP Worldwide Share Ownership Program [member] | Exercise price group 6 [member] | Ordinary shares [member]
Disclosure of range of exercise prices of outstanding share options [line items]
Number of ordinary shares under option	43,000
Exercise price per share | £ / shares	£ 13.145
Exercise dates	2017 - 2021
WPP Worldwide Share Ownership Program [member] | Exercise price group 7 [member] | Ordinary shares [member]
Disclosure of range of exercise prices of outstanding share options [line items]
Number of ordinary shares under option	1,739,050
Exercise price per share | £ / shares	£ 13.145
Exercise dates	2017 - 2024
WPP Worldwide Share Ownership Program [member] | Exercise price group 8 [member]
Disclosure of range of exercise prices of outstanding share options [line items]
Number of ordinary shares under option	4,375
Exercise price per share | £ / shares	£ 13.145
Exercise dates	2018 - 2024
WPP Worldwide Share Ownership Program [member] | Exercise price group 9 [member]
Disclosure of range of exercise prices of outstanding share options [line items]
Number of ordinary shares under option	564,975
Exercise price per share | £ / shares	£ 13.505
Exercise dates	2016 - 2023
WPP Worldwide Share Ownership Program [member] | Exercise price group 10 [member]
Disclosure of range of exercise prices of outstanding share options [line items]
Number of ordinary shares under option	14,125
Exercise price per share | £ / shares	£ 13.505
Exercise dates	2017 - 2023

XML

Authorised and issued share capital - Options Granted, WPP Share Option Plan 2015 (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019 shares ADRs £ / shares $ / ADRs	Dec. 31, 2018 shares
Ordinary shares [member]
Disclosure of range of exercise prices of outstanding share options [line items]
Number of ordinary shares under option	25,105,815	24,218,615
WPP Share Option Plan 2015 [member] | Ordinary shares [member]
Disclosure of range of exercise prices of outstanding share options [line items]
Number of ordinary shares under option	20,397,150	18,691,100
WPP Share Option Plan 2015 [member] | American depository receipts [member]
Disclosure of range of exercise prices of outstanding share options [line items]
Number of ordinary shares under option | ADRs	1,396,745
WPP Share Option Plan 2015 [member] | Exercise price group 1 [member] | Ordinary shares [member]
Disclosure of range of exercise prices of outstanding share options [line items]
Number of ordinary shares under option	18,250
Exercise price per share | £ / shares	£ 8.372
Exercise dates	2021 - 2025
WPP Share Option Plan 2015 [member] | Exercise price group 1 [member] | American depository receipts [member]
Disclosure of range of exercise prices of outstanding share options [line items]
Number of ordinary shares under option | ADRs	347,660
Exercise dates	2021 - 2028
Exercise price per ADR | $ / ADRs	53.140
WPP Share Option Plan 2015 [member] | Exercise price group 2 [member] | Ordinary shares [member]
Disclosure of range of exercise prices of outstanding share options [line items]
Number of ordinary shares under option	3,406,900
Exercise price per share | £ / shares	£ 8.372
Exercise dates	2021 - 2028
WPP Share Option Plan 2015 [member] | Exercise price group 2 [member] | American depository receipts [member]
Disclosure of range of exercise prices of outstanding share options [line items]
Number of ordinary shares under option | ADRs	347,105
Exercise dates	2022 - 2029
Exercise price per ADR | $ / ADRs	62.590
WPP Share Option Plan 2015 [member] | Exercise price group 3 [member] | Ordinary shares [member]
Disclosure of range of exercise prices of outstanding share options [line items]
Number of ordinary shares under option	15,500
Exercise price per share | £ / shares	£ 9.600
Exercise dates	2022 - 2026
WPP Share Option Plan 2015 [member] | Exercise price group 3 [member] | American depository receipts [member]
Disclosure of range of exercise prices of outstanding share options [line items]
Number of ordinary shares under option | ADRs	276,790
Exercise dates	2020 - 2027
Exercise price per ADR | $ / ADRs	88.260
WPP Share Option Plan 2015 [member] | Exercise price group 4 [member] | Ordinary shares [member]
Disclosure of range of exercise prices of outstanding share options [line items]
Number of ordinary shares under option	2,863,975
Exercise price per share | £ / shares	£ 9.600
Exercise dates	2022 - 2029
WPP Share Option Plan 2015 [member] | Exercise price group 4 [member] | American depository receipts [member]
Disclosure of range of exercise prices of outstanding share options [line items]
Number of ordinary shares under option | ADRs	236,265
Exercise dates	2020 - 2026
Exercise price per ADR | $ / ADRs	105.490
WPP Share Option Plan 2015 [member] | Exercise price group 5 [member] | Ordinary shares [member]
Disclosure of range of exercise prices of outstanding share options [line items]
Number of ordinary shares under option	19,250
Exercise price per share | £ / shares	£ 13.085
Exercise dates	2020 - 2024
WPP Share Option Plan 2015 [member] | Exercise price group 5 [member] | American depository receipts [member]
Disclosure of range of exercise prices of outstanding share options [line items]
Number of ordinary shares under option | ADRs	188,925
Exercise dates	2018 - 2025
Exercise price per ADR | $ / ADRs	115.940
WPP Share Option Plan 2015 [member] | Exercise price group 6 [member] | Ordinary shares [member]
Disclosure of range of exercise prices of outstanding share options [line items]
Number of ordinary shares under option	2,785,100
Exercise price per share | £ / shares	£ 13.085
Exercise dates	2020 - 2027
WPP Share Option Plan 2015 [member] | Exercise price group 7 [member] | Ordinary shares [member]
Disclosure of range of exercise prices of outstanding share options [line items]
Number of ordinary shares under option	55,500
Exercise price per share | £ / shares	£ 15.150
Exercise dates	2018 - 2022
WPP Share Option Plan 2015 [member] | Exercise price group 8 [member] | Ordinary shares [member]
Disclosure of range of exercise prices of outstanding share options [line items]
Number of ordinary shares under option	1,952,200
Exercise price per share | £ / shares	£ 15.150
Exercise dates	2018 - 2025
WPP Share Option Plan 2015 [member] | Exercise price group 9 [member] | Ordinary shares [member]
Disclosure of range of exercise prices of outstanding share options [line items]
Number of ordinary shares under option	5,375
Exercise price per share | £ / shares	£ 15.150
Exercise dates	2019 - 2025
WPP Share Option Plan 2015 [member] | Exercise price group 10 [member] | Ordinary shares [member]
Disclosure of range of exercise prices of outstanding share options [line items]
Number of ordinary shares under option	12,375
Exercise price per share | £ / shares	£ 17.055
Exercise dates	2019 - 2023
WPP Share Option Plan 2015 [member] | Exercise price group 11 [member] | Ordinary shares [member]
Disclosure of range of exercise prices of outstanding share options [line items]
Number of ordinary shares under option	2,279,000
Exercise price per share | £ / shares	£ 17.055
Exercise dates	2019 - 2026

XML

Authorised and issued share capital - Movements and Weighted-average Exercise Price for Options Granted (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019 shares £ / shares $ / ADRs	Dec. 31, 2018 shares £ / shares $ / ADRs	Dec. 31, 2017 shares
American depository receipts [member] | WPP Worldwide Share Ownership Program [member]
Disclosure of terms and conditions of share-based payment arrangement [Line items]
Weighted-average exercise price for options, 1 January | $ / ADRs	95.453
Weighted-average exercise price for options, Exercised | $ / ADRs	47.388
Weighted-average exercise price for options, Lapsed | $ / ADRs	91.622
Weighted-average exercise price for options, Outstanding 31 December | $ / ADRs	96.744	95.453
Weighted-average exercise price for options, Exercisable | $ / ADRs	96.744
American depository receipts [member] | WPP Share Option Plan 2015 [member]
Disclosure of terms and conditions of share-based payment arrangement [Line items]
Weighted-average exercise price for options, 1 January | $ / ADRs	84.893
Weighted-average exercise price for options, Granted | $ / ADRs	62.590
Weighted-average exercise price for options, Exercised | $ / ADRs	53.140
Weighted-average exercise price for options, Lapsed | $ / ADRs	82.290
Weighted-average exercise price for options, Outstanding 31 December | $ / ADRs	79.798	84.893
Weighted-average exercise price for options, Exercisable | $ / ADRs	115.940
Ordinary shares [member]
Disclosure of terms and conditions of share-based payment arrangement [Line items]
Options granted, Beginning balance	24,218,615
Options granted, Granted	4,615,000
Exercise of share options	(75,625)	(166,675)	(630,822)
Options granted, Lapsed	(3,652,175)
Options granted, Ending balance	25,105,815	24,218,615
Options granted, Exercisable	9,957,740
Ordinary shares [member] | WPP Executive Share Option Scheme [member]
Disclosure of terms and conditions of share-based payment arrangement [Line items]
Options granted, Beginning balance	6,741
Options granted, Ending balance	6,741	6,741
Options granted, Exercisable	6,741
Weighted-average exercise price for options, 1 January | £ / shares	£ 9.355
Weighted-average exercise price for options, Outstanding 31 December | £ / shares	9.355	£ 9.355
Weighted-average exercise price for options, Exercisable | £ / shares	£ 9.355
Ordinary shares [member] | WPP Worldwide Share Ownership Program [member]
Disclosure of terms and conditions of share-based payment arrangement [Line items]
Options granted, Beginning balance	5,520,774
Exercise of share options	(71,475)
Options granted, Lapsed	(747,375)
Options granted, Ending balance	4,701,924	5,520,774
Options granted, Exercisable	4,701,924
Weighted-average exercise price for options, 1 January | £ / shares	£ 12.290
Weighted-average exercise price for options, Exercised | £ / shares	6.888
Weighted-average exercise price for options, Lapsed | £ / shares	12.027
Weighted-average exercise price for options, Outstanding 31 December | £ / shares	12.421	£ 12.290
Weighted-average exercise price for options, Exercisable | £ / shares	£ 12.421
Ordinary shares [member] | WPP Share Option Plan 2015 [member]
Disclosure of terms and conditions of share-based payment arrangement [Line items]
Options granted, Beginning balance	18,691,100
Options granted, Granted	4,615,000
Exercise of share options	(4,150)
Options granted, Lapsed	(2,904,800)
Options granted, Ending balance	20,397,150	18,691,100
Options granted, Exercisable	5,249,075
Weighted-average exercise price for options, 1 January | £ / shares	£ 12.753
Weighted-average exercise price for options, Granted | £ / shares	9.600
Weighted-average exercise price for options, Exercised | £ / shares	8.372
Weighted-average exercise price for options, Lapsed | £ / shares	12.405
Weighted-average exercise price for options, Outstanding 31 December | £ / shares	12.121	£ 12.753
Weighted-average exercise price for options, Exercisable | £ / shares	£ 16.164

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Authorised and issued share capital - Range of Exercise Prices of Options (Detail) - 12 months ended Dec. 31, 2019	USD ($)	£ / shares
Ordinary shares [member]
Disclosure of range of exercise prices of outstanding share options [line items]
Weighted average contractual life (Months)	90 months
American depository receipts [member]
Disclosure of range of exercise prices of outstanding share options [line items]
Weighted average contractual life (Months)	89 months
Bottom of range [member] | Ordinary shares [member]
Disclosure of range of exercise prices of outstanding share options [line items]
Exercise price | £ / shares		£ 6.268
Bottom of range [member] | American depository receipts [member]
Disclosure of range of exercise prices of outstanding share options [line items]
Exercise price | $	$ 49.230
Top of range [member] | Ordinary shares [member]
Disclosure of range of exercise prices of outstanding share options [line items]
Exercise price | £ / shares		17.055
Top of range [member] | American depository receipts [member]
Disclosure of range of exercise prices of outstanding share options [line items]
Exercise price | $	115.940
Weighted average [member] | Ordinary shares [member]
Disclosure of range of exercise prices of outstanding share options [line items]
Exercise price | £ / shares		£ 12.171
Weighted average [member] | American depository receipts [member]
Disclosure of range of exercise prices of outstanding share options [line items]
Exercise price | $	$ 83.488

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Authorised and issued share capital - Weighted Average Fair Value of Options Granted and Weighted Average Assumptions (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019 GBP (£)	Dec. 31, 2018 GBP (£)	Dec. 31, 2017 GBP (£)	Dec. 31, 2019 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2018 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2017 USD ($)
Weighted average assumptions:
Expected life (months)	48 months	48 months	48 months
Expected volatility	24.00%	24.00%	17.00%
Dividend yield	3.80%	3.50%	2.90%
United Kingdom [member]
Weighted average assumptions:
Risk-free interest rate	0.57%	0.78%	0.57%
United Kingdom [member] | Ordinary shares [member]
Disclosure of terms and conditions of share-based payment arrangement [Line items]
Fair value of options | £	£ 1.17	£ 1.07	£ 1.12
United States [member]
Weighted average assumptions:
Risk-free interest rate	1.61%	2.74%	2.05%
United States [member] | American depository receipts [member]
Disclosure of terms and conditions of share-based payment arrangement [Line items]
Fair value of options | $				$ 8.49	$ 8.09	$ 9.40

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Other reserves - Summary of Other Reserves (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Disclosure of reserves within equity [line items]
Beginning balance	[1]	£ 962.4	£ 1,119.1
Exchange adjustments recycled to the income statement on disposal of discontinued operations	[1]	(284.0)
Share cancellations	[1]	(47.7)
Exchange adjustments on foreign currency net investments	[1]	(625.1)	284.0	£ (659.8)
Gain (loss) on revaluation of available for sale investments	[1]			32.1
Recognition and remeasurement of financial instruments	[1]	23.7	(13.9)	(20.4)
Share purchases – close period commitments	[1],[2]	(252.3)
Ending balance	[1]	(169.9)	962.4	1,119.1
Capital redemption reserve [member]
Disclosure of reserves within equity [line items]
Beginning balance		2.7	2.7	2.7
Share cancellations		0.5
Ending balance		3.2	2.7	2.7
Equity reserve [member]
Disclosure of reserves within equity [line items]
Beginning balance	[3]	(236.4)	(212.1)	(203.4)
Recognition and remeasurement of financial instruments	[3]	10.6	(24.3)	(8.7)
Share purchases – close period commitments	[3]	(252.3)
Ending balance	[3]	(478.1)	(236.4)	(212.1)
Revaluation reserve [member]
Disclosure of reserves within equity [line items]
Beginning balance			303.4	271.3
Gain (loss) on revaluation of available for sale investments				32.1
Accounting policy change (IFRS 9)	[1]		(303.4)
Ending balance				303.4
Translation reserve [member]
Disclosure of reserves within equity [line items]
Beginning balance	[1]	1,196.1	1,025.1	1,665.2
Exchange adjustments recycled to the income statement on disposal of discontinued operations	[1]	(284.0)
Exchange adjustments on foreign currency net investments	[1]	(607.1)	275.0	(640.1)
Accounting policy change (IFRS 9)	[1]		(104.0)
Ending balance	[1]	305.0	1,196.1	1,025.1
Other reserves [member]
Disclosure of reserves within equity [line items]
Beginning balance		962.4	1,119.1	1,735.8
Exchange adjustments recycled to the income statement on disposal of discontinued operations	[1]	(284.0)
Share cancellations	[1]	0.5
Exchange adjustments on foreign currency net investments	[1]	(607.1)	275.0	(640.1)
Gain (loss) on revaluation of available for sale investments	[1]			32.1
Accounting policy change (IFRS 9)	[1]		(407.4)
Recognition and remeasurement of financial instruments	[1]	10.6	(24.3)	(8.7)
Share purchases – close period commitments	[1],[2]	(252.3)
Ending balance		£ (169.9)	£ 962.4	£ 1,119.1

[1] Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

[2] During 2019, the Company entered into an arrangement with a third party to conduct share buybacks on its behalf in the close period commencing on 2 January 2020 and ending on 27 February 2020, in accordance with UK listing rules. The commitment resulting from this agreement constitutes a liability at 31 December 2019, which is included in Trade and other payables: amounts falling due within one year and has been recognised as a movement in equity.

[3] Figures have been restated to be in accordance with IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, as described in the accounting policies.

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Acquisitions - Book Values of Identifiable Assets and Liabilities Acquired and Their Fair Value (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Book value [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]
Intangible assets		£ 0.8
Property, plant and equipment	£ 3.1	5.5
Cash	5.0	28.9
Trade receivables due within one year	43.7	74.4
Other current assets	20.3	20.1
Total assets	72.1	129.7
Current liabilities	(42.8)	(76.0)
Trade and other payables due after one year	(2.4)	(10.2)
Provisions		(0.1)
Total liabilities	(45.2)	(86.3)
Net assets	26.9	43.4
Fair value adjustments [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]
Intangible assets	40.3	79.0
Total assets	40.3	79.0
Trade and other payables due after one year	(13.5)	(20.5)
Deferred tax liabilities	(9.9)	(16.8)
Provisions	(0.4)	(4.8)
Total liabilities	(23.8)	(42.1)
Net assets	16.5	36.9
At Fair Value [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]
Intangible assets	40.3	79.8
Property, plant and equipment	3.1	5.5
Cash	5.0	28.9
Trade receivables due within one year	43.7	74.4
Other current assets	20.3	20.1
Total assets	112.4	208.7
Current liabilities	(42.8)	(76.0)
Trade and other payables due after one year	(15.9)	(30.7)
Deferred tax liabilities	(9.9)	(16.8)
Provisions	(0.4)	(4.9)
Total liabilities	(69.0)	(128.4)
Net assets	43.4	80.3
Non-controlling interests	(6.3)	(13.9)
Fair value of equity stake in associate undertakings before acquisition of controlling interest	(3.1)	(5.7)
Goodwill	141.6	314.3
Consideration	175.6	375.0
Consideration satisfied by:
Cash	127.4	213.7
Payments due to vendors	£ 48.2	£ 161.3

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Acquisitions - Additional Information (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [abstract]
Goodwill that is expected to be deductible for tax purposes	£ 65.3	£ 63.9

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Related party transactions - Summary of related party transaction outstanding (Detail) £ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2019 GBP (£)
Amounts owed by related parties
Amounts receivable, related party transactions	£ 175.0
Amounts owed to related parties
Amounts payable, related party transactions	(86.1)
Kantar [Member]
Amounts owed by related parties
Amounts receivable, related party transactions	87.5
Amounts owed to related parties
Amounts payable, related party transactions	(36.5)
Other [Member]
Amounts owed by related parties
Amounts receivable, related party transactions	87.5
Amounts owed to related parties
Amounts payable, related party transactions	£ (49.6)

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Reconciliation of operating profit to a headline operating profit - Summary of Reconciliation of Operating Profit to Headline Operating Profit (Detail) - GBP (£) £ in Millions		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018		Dec. 31, 2017
Statement [Line Items]
Operating profit	[1]	£ 1,295.9	£ 1,245.3	[2]	£ 1,577.9	[2]
Goodwill impairment	[3]	47.7	176.5	[2]	27.1	[2]
Gains on disposal of investments and subsidiaries		(40.4)	(237.9)		(98.7)
(Gains)/losses on remeasurement of equity interests arising from a change in scope of ownership		(0.4)	(2.0)		0.3
Investment write-downs		7.5	2.0		91.7
Litigation settlement		(16.8)
Gain on sale of freehold property in New York	[1]	7.9
Continuing Operation [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Operating profit		1,295.9	1,245.3	[1],[2]	1,577.9	[2]
Amortisation and impairment of acquired intangible assets		121.5	201.8	[1],[2]	138.0	[2]
Goodwill impairment		47.7	176.5	[1],[2]	27.1	[2]
Gains on disposal of investments and subsidiaries		(40.4)	(237.9)	[1],[2]	(98.7)	[2]
(Gains)/losses on remeasurement of equity interests arising from a change in scope of ownership		(0.4)	(2.0)	[1],[2]	0.3	[2]
Investment write-downs		7.5	2.0	[1],[2]	91.7	[2]
Litigation settlement		(16.8)
Gain on sale of freehold property in New York		(7.9)
Restructuring and transformation costs		153.5	265.5	[1],[2]	56.8	[2]
Headline operating profit		£ 1,560.6	£ 1,651.2	[1],[2]	£ 1,793.1	[2]

[1] Figures have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.

[2] Prior year figures have been re-presented in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, as described in the accounting policies.

[3] Figures in 2018 have been restated, as described in the accounting policies.