ITV Targets Extra $46M In Cost Savings Amid “Softening Economy” In UK

Core Viewpoint - ITV is implementing additional cost-saving measures of £35M ($45.7M) in response to a softening UK economy and reduced advertising demand, while maintaining steady year-to-date revenues [1][2]. Financial Performance - Year-to-date group revenues for ITV reached £2.8B, reflecting a 2% increase from £2.74B in the previous year [3]. - ITV Studios reported revenue of £1.35B, an 11% increase from £1.22B in 2024, with external revenue up 20% due to demand from streaming platforms [4]. - The Media & Entertainment (M&E) networks saw total revenue decline by 5% to £1.44B, although digital advertising revenue increased by 15% [5]. Strategic Adjustments - ITV plans to shift £20M of programming costs to 2026 and achieve an additional £15M in non-content savings through reduced discretionary and marketing spending, adjusting the total content budget for 2025 to approximately £1.21B [2]. - The company remains confident in delivering good growth in ITV Studios revenue and digital revenue for the full year, supported by strategic cost management [7]. Market Outlook - The economic outlook in the UK is uncertain, with caution observed across various business sectors ahead of the upcoming Budget [4]. - ITV's overall performance has exceeded market expectations, attributed to its long-term "More Than TV" strategy [6].