Mumbai: WPP Media has emerged as India’s leading media group for new business in the first quarter of 2026, according to the latest COMvergence Q1 2026 India New Business Barometer. The network recorded total billings of $178.8 million, the highest among all media groups tracked during the period, reinforcing its position as one of the country’s most competitive media networks.
During the quarter, WPP Media secured 11 business wins in India, including seven new accounts and four retentions, spanning sectors such as automobiles, FMCG, hospitality, pharmaceuticals and real estate. The performance reflects the group’s integrated media, data, technology and creative capabilities across diverse industries.
Among the notable client wins and retentions were Reckitt, JSW Motors, Jaguar Land Rover, Godrej Properties, Nothing Technology, Airbnb, Red Bull, Valvoline, Agilus, Alkem Laboratories and Zee Bullet, among others.
The report also highlighted WPP Media’s strong client retention performance. The group achieved a 74% retention rate, retaining $179 million in billings across four accounts. The combination of new business growth and client retention underscores the network’s ability to build long-term partnerships while continuing to attract new brands.
India’s performance mirrors WPP Media’s global momentum. According to the COMvergence Q1 2026 Global New Business Barometer, WPP Media ranked first worldwide with $1.5 billion in total new business billings, supported by major global wins including Jaguar Land Rover and Estée Lauder. The network also accounted for $1.2 billion of the $1.8 billion awarded to bespoke, group-led media solutions globally, representing a significant share of the total reviewed media spend.
Commenting on the achievement, Prasanth Kumar, CEO, WPP Media South Asia, said, “Being recognised as the leading media group for new business in India is a reflection of the trust our clients place in us and the strength of our integrated proposition. In an increasingly dynamic marketplace, brands are looking for partners who can connect creativity, media, data and technology to drive tangible business outcomes. What is particularly encouraging is that our growth story is being powered not only by new client partnerships, but also by the confidence of existing clients who continue to grow with us. As the industry evolves, our focus remains on building future-ready capabilities, investing in talent, and creating solutions that help brands unlock sustainable growth at scale.”
The COMvergence Q1 2026 India report tracked 18 pitches worth a combined $316 million during the quarter. WPP Media’s $178.8 million in total billings represented a substantial share of the overall market activity, highlighting the group’s continued strength in a rapidly evolving and increasingly competitive media landscape.
The performance reflects WPP Media’s ongoing investments in talent, technology and integrated solutions aimed at helping brands drive measurable business outcomes and sustainable growth.
