The latest series of Love Island started in June
(Picture: ITV)The Euros, Love Island and the easing of lockdown rules helped ITV to notch up record June advertising revenues, the broadcaster said on Wednesday as it revealed dividend payouts will return.
The FTSE 100 firm saw advertising rebound strongly in the six months to June 30. It pointed to strong demand from all sectors, excluding travel, as numerous firms wanted to make it clear they were open for business.
It cheered a boost from the Euro 2020 tournament and added there have been strong viewing figures for programmes including Love Island and The Masked Singer.
Total revenue rose 27% to £1.5 billion, and advertising revenues leapt 29% in the period. The June figure was 115% higher than the same month in 2020.
Statutory pre-tax profit was £133 million, up from £15 million.
Chief executive Carolyn McCall said the first half results demonstrate that ITV is “emerging from the worst effects of the pandemic”.
At the start of the coronavirus crisis ITV faced disruption as lockdown rules hit ITV Studios’ ability to film productions, while some advertisers delayed spending plans. In March last year the group suspended dividend payments.
Today the firm said assuming the economy continues to recover, the board intends to propose a final dividend of 3.3p for the full year.
