WPP-Scangroup is Africa’s leading marketing and communication services network. Headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya, WPP-Scangroup is a subsidiary of WPP plc, the world’s largest advertising and communication company. It offers a 360-degree suite of services that include advertising, media investment management, public relations, digital marketing, branding, and market research.

As Africa undergoes rapid economic and technological transformation, businesses are increasingly in need of innovative communication solutions tailored for diverse and complex markets. WPP-Scangroup stands at the forefront, serving both multinational corporations and local enterprises with cutting-edge marketing strategies.

History and Evolution of WPP-Scangroup

Founded in 1999 by Bharat Thakrar as Scangroup Limited, the company started as a homegrown Kenyan marketing agency. It quickly gained traction and established itself as a reliable name in East Africa.

In 2006, Scangroup made history by becoming the first marketing services company to list on the Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE). This move not only increased transparency but also boosted investor confidence.

The turning point came in 2013, when WPP plc acquired a controlling stake in Scangroup. Following this, it was rebranded to WPP-Scangroup, aligning its African operations more closely with WPP’s global standards and network. Since then, the company has expanded both organically and through acquisitions, becoming the continent’s largest integrated marketing communications network.

WPP-Scangroup Services and Solutions

WPP-Scangroup offers a comprehensive suite of services tailored for modern, multichannel communication strategies:

1. Advertising and Creative Development

Agencies under WPP-Scangroup such as Ogilvy Africa, JWT, and Scanad specialize in creating compelling brand stories that resonate with African audiences. These include TV commercials, print media, and outdoor advertising.

2. Media Buying and Planning

Media companies like GroupM, Mediacom, and Mindshare operate under the Scangroup umbrella, providing efficient and targeted media planning and buying services.

3. Digital Marketing

Through agencies like OgilvyOne and Squad Digital, WPP-Scangroup leads in SEO, content marketing, social media, mobile advertising, and digital strategy.

4. Public Relations and Corporate Communication

Firms like Ogilvy PR and H+K Strategies offer PR campaigns, crisis management, media relations, and stakeholder engagement services across the continent.

5. Branding and Design

Specialized agencies like Addison Whitney and Geometry focus on brand identity, packaging, and retail marketing.

6. Research and Data Analytics

Millward Brown and Research International provide market research, consumer insights, brand tracking, and data analysis services critical for decision-making.

Subsidiaries and Strategic Partnerships

WPP-Scangroup boasts an impressive portfolio of globally renowned agencies operating under its umbrella, including:

• Ogilvy Africa

• JWT (J. Walter Thompson)

• GroupM

• Mindshare

• Mediacom

• H+K Strategies

• Scanad

• Squad Digital

• Millward Brown

• Kantar

These agencies work synergistically to deliver integrated communication solutions across all verticals.

Geographic Presence and Market Coverage

WPP-Scangroup operates in more than 25 African countries, making it the largest marketing network on the continent. Its key operational hubs include:

• East Africa: Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Ethiopia

• Southern Africa: South Africa, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana

• West Africa: Nigeria, Ghana, Ivory Coast

• Central Africa: Democratic Republic of Congo, Cameroon

• North Africa: Egypt, Morocco

This widespread presence allows WPP-Scangroup to deliver regionally nuanced strategies, tailored to local cultures, languages, and consumer behavior.

Leadership and Management

WPP-Scangroup has seen several strategic changes in leadership aimed at fostering innovation and operational efficiency. The company’s management team brings global experience combined with deep local market knowledge.

Recent leadership includes Patricia Ithau, who became CEO in 2022, bringing extensive experience in brand management and regional business leadership. Under her tenure, the company has focused on digitization, diversity, and expanding service offerings.

WPP-Scangroup and Digital Transformation

In an age where digital channels dominate consumer engagement, WPP-Scangroup has made significant investments in:

• Digital strategy consulting

• Programmatic advertising

• Performance marketing

• Artificial intelligence and machine learning

• Omni-channel customer experience

Their digital-first approach ensures clients remain relevant and effective in reaching their audiences, especially in mobile-first African markets.

Financial Performance and Stock Market Overview

Listed on the Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE) under the ticker symbol SCAN, WPP-Scangroup remains one of the most transparent and widely traded stocks in the communications sector.

Key Financial Highlights:

• Strong asset base and consistent revenue growth

• Diversified revenue streams across services and geographies

• Recovery and growth strategies post-COVID-19 economic challenges

• Strategic divestments of non-core operations to enhance profitability

• Investors are increasingly looking at WPP-Scangroup as a solid long-term play on Africa’s growing consumer and media markets.

• Social Impact and Sustainability

WPP-Scangroup recognizes the importance of corporate social responsibility (CSR). The company actively supports:

• Education initiatives in underserved communities

• Youth empowerment through internships and mentorships

• Environmental sustainability, with green campaigns and reduced carbon footprints

• Gender equity in leadership and hiring practices

By integrating sustainability into its core strategy, WPP-Scangroup not only enhances brand trust but also contributes to socio-economic development.

Challenges and Opportunities Ahead

Challenges:

• Economic volatility in African markets

• Changing regulatory environments

• Talent retention and development

• Adapting to rapid technological change

• Opportunities:

• Rising digital penetration

• Growing middle class with increased purchasing power

• Untapped markets in Francophone and Lusophone Africa

• Strategic mergers and acquisitions

WPP-Scangroup is well-positioned to navigate these dynamics with agility, thanks to its diversified portfolio and strong parent backing from WPP plc.

Why WPP-Scangroup is the Go-To Agency in Africa

Here’s why clients across industries choose WPP-Scangroup:

• Unmatched regional footprint

• Comprehensive service integration

• Local insights + global expertise

• Data-driven, digital-first strategy

• Proven track record of campaign success

Whether it's launching a product, managing a PR crisis, or driving brand engagement, WPP-Scangroup offers world-class capabilities across the African continent.

WPP-Scangroup traces its roots back to Scanad, a marketing communications agency founded in Kenya in 1982 by Bharat Thakrar. Scanad quickly rose to prominence in East Africa, becoming known for its creative advertising strategies and strong client relationships.

The 1980s and 1990s saw Scanad expand regionally into Tanzania, Uganda, and beyond. By the early 2000s, it had established itself as a dominant regional player, offering services in advertising, public relations, and media buying.

The Birth of Scangroup Limited (2006)

In 2006, the company underwent a major transformation. Bharat Thakrar led the formation of Scangroup Limited, consolidating various entities including:

• Scanad (advertising)

• Media Initiative East Africa (media buying)

• Insight Grey (advertising)

• Ogilvy & Mather East Africa (creative strategy)

Later that year, Scangroup became the first marketing services company in Africa to list on a stock exchange — the Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE). This public listing marked a significant shift, giving the company capital for expansion and enhancing its reputation across the continent.

• WPP’s Entry and Acquisition (2008–2013)

• WPP Takes Stake in Scangroup

In 2008, the London-based global advertising giant WPP plc acquired a 27.5% stake in Scangroup. This strategic move allowed Scangroup to access WPP’s global resources, tools, and clientele, while WPP secured a foothold in Africa's burgeoning markets.

Gradual Increase in Ownership

By 2013, WPP had increased its ownership in Scangroup to 50.1%, gaining majority control. This led to deeper integration with WPP’s international agencies, and by 2015, the firm officially rebranded to WPP-Scangroup, aligning its identity with the global parent brand.

Transformation to WPP-Scangroup

The name change to WPP-Scangroup symbolized more than just a rebranding. It marked a strategic transformation:

• Centralized operations under WPP global best practices

• Restructured governance to reflect global standards

• Expanded service offerings including digital marketing, data analytics, and public relations

• WPP-Scangroup became Africa’s largest marketing and communications group, representing WPP’s major brands such as Ogilvy, Hill+Knowlton, GroupM, Mindshare, MediaCom, and Wunderman Thompson.

• Expansion Across Africa

WPP-Scangroup's ambition extended far beyond Kenya. By 2020, the company operated in over 25 countries in Sub-Saharan Africa, either directly or through affiliates.

Key expansion milestones include:

• Opening offices in Ghana, Nigeria, South Africa, Zambia, Ethiopia, and Rwanda

• Strategic acquisitions of smaller agencies in Francophone and Lusophone African regions

• Partnerships with governments and multinational corporations seeking regional marketing expertise

This geographic expansion reinforced WPP-Scangroup’s status as the go-to communications partner for brands operating across Africa.

Notable Subsidiaries and Brands

WPP-Scangroup houses several globally and regionally recognized agencies under its umbrella, such as:

1. Ogilvy Africa

A creative agency providing advertising, brand strategy, and digital services. Ogilvy Africa is active in more than 20 countries and serves top-tier clients in telecom, banking, and FMCG sectors.

2. GroupM

A media investment group managing media buying for various brands. Includes Mindshare, MediaCom, and Wavemaker.

3. H+K Strategies

A public relations firm offering strategic communications, crisis management, and government relations.

4. Geometry Global

Focused on brand activation, shopper marketing, and experiential marketing.

5. Squad Digital (later merged with Ogilvy Digital)

One of Africa’s first digital-first agencies, pioneering SEO, SEM, and social media marketing in the region.

Leadership Evolution

For many years, Bharat Thakrar served as the CEO and driving force behind the group. His leadership saw the company through its listing, expansion, and integration with WPP.

However, in March 2021, Thakrar and CFO Satyabrata Das were suspended due to an internal investigation into potential misconduct. Thakrar eventually exited the company, ending a nearly 40-year tenure.

Following his departure:

• Aly-Khan Satchu briefly served on an interim basis

• Patricia Ithau was appointed CEO in 2022, bringing a renewed focus on governance, innovation, and inclusion

This leadership change marked a new chapter focused on ethical leadership, digital innovation, and stakeholder value.

Innovation and Digital Shift

The evolution of WPP-Scangroup also mirrors the digital revolution in African marketing.

• Early 2010s: Established Squad Digital, one of East Africa's first agencies to offer SEO, PPC, and analytics

• Mid-2010s: Invested in mobile-first marketing as smartphone penetration increased

• 2020s: Focused on programmatic advertising, influencer marketing, and MarTech platforms

The digital division has become a growth engine, offering integrated campaigns that combine creative storytelling with performance-driven digital media.

Controversies and Challenges

Like many large corporations, WPP-Scangroup has faced its share of challenges:

1. Leadership Scandal (2021)

The suspension and subsequent exit of Thakrar and Das sent shockwaves through Kenya’s corporate circles. While details remained private, the event highlighted the importance of corporate governance in listed companies.

2. COVID-19 Pandemic Impact

Like the rest of the industry, WPP-Scangroup experienced a downturn in 2020. Advertising budgets were slashed, and several markets saw contraction. The company responded with cost-cutting, operational streamlining, and a pivot to digital.

3. Increased Competition

WPP-Scangroup faces rising competition from boutique creative agencies, freelancers, and global digital firms entering the African market.

WPP-Scangroup Today and Future Outlook

• 2024 Status Snapshot

• Operates in 25+ African markets

• Employs over 1,000 marketing professionals

• Serves clients across telecom, banking, FMCG, government, and health sectors

• Continues to integrate WPP’s AI and MarTech platforms into its offerings

Strategic Focus Areas

• Digital Transformation

Leading with data-driven marketing, personalization, and e-commerce integration.

• Sustainability and ESG

Aligning campaigns with sustainability goals and social impact narratives.

• Diversity and Local Talent Development

Investing in African creatives and building inclusive teams.

• AI and Automation

Leveraging WPP’s global innovation labs to bring advanced tools like predictive analytics, chatbots, and AR/VR campaigns to African clients.

Conclusion: A Legacy Still in Motion

The history and evolution of WPP-Scangroup is not just a tale of a single company, but a reflection of Africa’s rise as a marketing frontier. From a small Nairobi-based agency to a continent-wide communications empire aligned with a global advertising leader, WPP-Scangroup exemplifies vision, adaptability, and leadership.

As marketing continues to evolve with AI, big data, and new consumer behaviors, WPP-Scangroup is well-positioned to shape the next chapter of African brand storytelling. WPP-Scangroup is more than just an advertising agency—it's a transformational partner for businesses seeking success in Africa. With deep roots in local markets, a vast agency network, and a vision anchored in innovation and inclusivity, WPP-Scangroup is shaping the future of marketing in Africa.

As the continent continues to rise, the importance of culturally relevant, data-driven, and impactful communication will only grow. And leading that charge is WPP-Scangroup—Africa’s undisputed marketing powerhouse.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What does WPP-Scangroup do?

WPP-Scangroup is a marketing and communication network offering services like advertising, PR, digital marketing, media planning, and research across Africa.

2. Is WPP-Scangroup listed on any stock exchange?

Yes, it is listed on the Nairobi Securities Exchange under the ticker SCAN.

3. Who owns WPP-Scangroup?

It is majority-owned by WPP plc, the world’s largest communications services group.

4. Where is WPP-Scangroup headquartered?

The company is headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya.

5. How can I contact WPP-Scangroup?

Visit the official website or reach out via their corporate offices in Nairobi or any of their subsidiaries across Africa.