Advertising agencies warn of tough year ahead

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Three of the world’s largest advertising groups warned of a tough fourth quarter, confirming fears of a dismal 2009 for the marketing industry.

Interpublic, Publicis and Aegis reported mixed ­third-quarter results, with the greatest revenue falls in Germany, Spain and the UK.

But all insisted they would maintain or improve margins by controlling costs and cutting staff as the impact of the financial crisis hit marketing budgets.