Dentsu is reportedly exploring the sale of its international business, a move that would reverse its decade-long push for global expansion. 

The Tokyo-listed company has hired Mitsubishi UFJ Morgan Stanley and Nomura Securities as financial advisors to sound out potential buyers and to explore options ranging from a minority stake sale to a complete divestment, according to news reports. 

The move would mark a dramatic retreat from its long-held ambition to rival WPP, Publicis, and other global holding groups.

The decision follows a period of financial difficulty for dentsu's international arm, which has struggled with negative growth in Europe, the US, and Asia. Its strong domestic performance in Japan has been dragged down by the international operations.

The international business largely stems from dentsu's 2012 acquisition of the UK-based Aegis Group for USD 4.9 billion. That deal was meant to elevate dentsu to a global competitor against rivals like WPP and Publicis.

Earlier in August 2025, dentsu announced it was cutting 3,400 jobs from its international workforce, which accounts for about 8% of its global staff. The company also lowered its full-year outlook, predicting an operating loss for the international business.

The potential sale also reflects broader industry disruptions from artificial intelligence, which is rapidly reshaping the advertising and media landscape.

While no announcements have been made by the company with regards to the international business, in a statement published on financial news websites, dentsu confirmed it is considering strategic alternatives to "enhance corporate value," even as it is rebuilding the business foundation and reevaluating underperforming businesses. It also stated that no final decision has been made, and a decision is expected by the end of 2025.