Due to the continuing affects of the virus, the French outdoor advertising firm says it is preparing for its first-quarter adjusted revenue and 2020 operating margin to be impacted.

In a summary of the company’s 2019 results, the firm predicts a loss of 10% despite a positive current trading in street furniture.

A statement revealing its 2019 results says: “In Asia-Pacific, our business has been significantly affected since the beginning of February, with a very important decline in China in passengers and commuters in the airports and metros where we operate.

“All our landlords in China fully recognise the significant setback for the advertising business and have all already expressed their intention to grant us rent reductions.”

In a bid to manage the drop in revenue and audience reach on its street furniture platforms, JCDecaux has been in talks with its clients and advertisers.

The firm is working to support them with temporary reliefs and says most of its clients are currently happy to keep their locations and long-term commitments in areas such as airports.

The statement continues: “Given the magnitude of the Covid-19 disruption, our group operating margin should be negatively affected in 2020, despite saving measures being implemented without compromising our operational quality and efficiency, to mitigate the impact.

“With strong and effective measures notably taken by the Chinese government, a rebound of the economic growth could pave the way for a recovery with consumption and investment activities resuming, once the epidemic is under control.”

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