French media group Havas have announced a rise of 8% in pre-tax profits to £74.6 million (€88 million) in the first half of 2013.

Chief Executive David Jones said the financial reports represented a "good six months" for Havas, with revenues up almost 10% to €837 million and half of those coming from Europe, with the UK (1.2%) and France (2.3%) at last showing signs of growth and recovery.



 


Account wins of LG and Dove, coupled with Latin America undergoing 12% growth, saw new business net billings of €838 million.

"From a growth perspective the group made good progress in France and in the United Kingdom. North America returned to positive growth in Q2 and Latin America to double-digit growth," said Jones.

"We have continued our strategy of creating the most agile, entrepreneurial and integrated communications group."

According to multiple outlets, shares subsequently jumped by 6.32% to 5.839 euros in Paris trading, showing a gain of 1.7%