Market research group posts low-single-digit revenue rise, flags cautious outlook despite AI investments
Shares in YouGov PLC (AIM:YOU) fell 3% to 214.5p after the company reported a slowdown in first-half revenue growth and flagged pressure on operating margins due to investment and macroeconomic uncertainty.
The London-listed data analytics and research group said revenue for the six months to 31 January 2026 grew by a low single-digit percentage, in line with expectations.
Growth in the UK and US was offset by a decline in the Shopper division, formerly known as Custom Projects Services, due to the timing of client deliveries.
The Data Products business recorded flat performance, with renewal rates stable, but demand from media agencies held back by budget constraints. Research services, including strategic studies and trackers, achieved mid-single-digit growth.
YouGov said it had continued to invest in product development, automation and improvements to its data infrastructure, with a focus on integrating new artificial intelligence features and enhancing client experience.
The group maintained its full-year guidance for modest revenue growth but said profit would depend on the outcome of ongoing cost control and the performance of recent investments.
It added that while commercial interest in AI offerings was encouraging, the broader economic backdrop and second-half renewal season required careful management.