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6d ago

STV Lowers Full-Year Guidance and Raises Cost-Savings Target as Unscripted Commissioning Stalls

Worsening UK marketing budgets have driven ad revenues sharply lower, eroding near-term profit forecasts.

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A third series of the BBC crime drama Blue Lights has been confirmed, but other shows are still in limbo

Overview

  • STV Group trimmed its 2025 revenue forecast to £165–£180 million and now anticipates an adjusted operating margin of around 7%, well below analysts’ consensus.
  • Advertising revenue is projected to fall 8% in Q3, driven by a sharp 20% drop in July as UK marketing budgets shrink.
  • A significant downturn in the unscripted commissioning market has led to cancellations and pushed advanced projects into 2026.
  • The company raised its 2025 cost-savings target to £2.5 million, up from £1.7 million, and plans further efficiency measures.
  • Scripted production remains resilient with active commissions underway for Netflix, Apple, Sky and the BBC.