Cherries
oil on canvas
22 x 20 in
1981
Penny Machines
oil on canvas
23¾ x 29¾ in
1961
Stack of Books
oil on canvas
30 x 24 in
n.d.
Seven Suckers
oil on canvas
19 x 23 in
1970
Twin Jackpots
oil on canvas
30 x 46 in
1962
Ties
oil on canvas
20 x 26 in
1980
Social investment
In 2009, the total value of our social investment was £14.9 million compared with £14.6 million in 2008. This is equivalent to 2.2% of reported profit before tax and includes direct cash donations to charities of £4.1 million and £10.8 million worth of pro bono work. These figures are based on fees the organisations would have paid for our work. In addition, WPP media agencies negotiated free media space worth £27.3 million on behalf of pro bono clients.
Pro bono work
Our companies have a long tradition of pro bono work – providing communications services to charities at little or no cost. This work can be invaluable – helping raise money and awareness for hundreds of good causes every year.
It also benefits WPP by showcasing our creative skills and ability to create compelling communications on a wide range of social and environmental issues. Our people gain a breadth of experience and the chance to contribute to their communities.
Examples of recent pro bono work by our companies are included in our Corporate Responsibility Report.
WPP the parent company
WPP, the parent company, supports a range of charities and non-profit organisations, with a particular focus on education, the arts and young people. These include:
- Gambian Education Development Trust
- INSEAD Trust for European Management Education
- NABS (a charity which offers financial, practical and emotional support to those in the advertising industry)
- The London Business School
- The National Portrait Gallery
- The Natural History Museum
- The Paley Center for Media
- University of Oxford
WPP is also a member of:
- Business in the Community (an organisation that promotes responsible business practice)
- Employers Forum on Disability
- The Institute of Business Ethics
Many senior WPP executives also give pro bono advice and support. Sir Martin Sorrell is an active participant in programs at the following international business schools: London Business School; IESE, Spain; Indian Business School; Harvard Business School; and Boston University, School of Management.