WPP first-half profits jump to £334m WPP has unveiled a 37% year-on-year increase in first-half pre-tax profits to £334.3m, after a strong performance including "surprisingly" high growth in the UK. Despite growing signs of a slowdown in the global economy, the holding company led by Sir Martin Sorrell still saw increased client spending, as well as pulling in net new business estimated at $1.2bn (£728,376,000m).

M&S picks Hollywood stars for autumn campaign Marks & Spencer has signed Hollywood actor Ryan Reynolds and Burberry model Rosie Huntington-Whitely as the faces of its autumn clothing campaign out this Thursday (1 September). The Green Lantern and Transformers 3 stars will front the autumn print and in-store activity for the brand's premium Autograph range.

Pepsi launches mini cans in UK PepsiCo has introduced a smaller 250ml can for its Pepsi, Pepsi Max and Diet Pepsi brands in the UK, after research carried out by Britvic, which has a UK bottling agreement with PepsiCo, revealed consumers, particularly women, would like smaller cans.

Rolls-Royce seeks agency for DM task Rolls-Royce Motor Cars is reviewing its direct marketing business. The car marque is in talks with a number of agencies about the business, which is held by Partners Andrews Aldridge; the chosen agency is expected to work across CRM, trade events and direct marketing.

Aegis 'considering between 50 and 60 acquisitions', says Buhlmann Aegis Group is looking for "good quality" digital businesses in the UK as part of a global acquisition drive following the sale of market research firm Synovate, according to chief executive Jerry Buhlmann.