WPP's interim pre-tax profits rise 80%

by Staff,, Brand Republic 20-Aug-01, 08:45

LONDON - It has a busy day for WPP Group. As the group made its 555p-a-share bid for Tempus, it has reported its interim results showing pre-tax profits up almost 80%.

Pre-tax profits for the six months to June 30 were £247m, compared with £137.7m last time. Earnings per share were 15.3p, compared with 12.3p in 2000. The results are well within analysts' expectations of £238m-£250m.

Revenues for the six months came in at £1.9bn, compared with £1.2bn a year earlier. Profit before interest and tax was £277.8m against £160.7m last time.