London has become a leading hub for programmatic advertising companies, offering advanced solutions for brands seeking smarter, data-driven digital marketing. Programmatic advertising uses real-time bidding and automated technology to deliver highly targeted ads, improving both efficiency and ROI.
As competition grows and consumer behaviour shifts rapidly, businesses across the UK are turning to London-based agencies for expert media planning and execution. From full-service firms to niche consultancies, these agencies help brands connect with audiences across channels like display, video, mobile, and connected TV.
In this guide, we highlight the top 10 programmatic advertising companies in London, chosen for their expertise, innovation, and strong client reviews.
What Is Programmatic Advertising and How Does It Work in the UK?
Programmatic advertising is an automated way of buying and selling digital ad space using sophisticated technology such as real-time bidding (RTB), data analytics, and AI. It enables businesses to display targeted ads to the right people at the right time, across platforms like websites, mobile apps, and connected TV.
In the UK, programmatic advertising has seen substantial growth due to its efficiency and effectiveness. It replaces traditional manual media buying with a more agile and data-driven process.
Advertisers use Demand-Side Platforms (DSPs) to purchase ad inventory, while publishers use Supply-Side Platforms (SSPs) to manage and sell their space. Supporting these platforms are Data Management Platforms (DMPs), which gather and analyse user data to improve targeting accuracy.
For UK businesses, this means more control, better targeting, and improved return on investment. Whether it’s a national retailer promoting seasonal offers or a B2B firm seeking high-intent leads, programmatic technology helps drive results faster and more cost-effectively.
Which Are the Top 10 Programmatic Advertising Companies in London?
1. Brainlabs – “Where Data Meets Creativity”
Brainlabs is one of the most recognised digital marketing agencies in the UK, known for its data-led and test-and-learn approach. Founded in London, the agency has grown internationally while maintaining a strong UK focus. Their programmatic offering is robust, supported by in-house tech teams and cutting-edge automation tools.
They build custom solutions tailored to specific client needs and are particularly strong in performance measurement and analytics. Their client portfolio includes both SMEs and global enterprises across sectors like e-commerce, finance, and retail.
Brainlabs is a certified Google Partner and has won multiple industry awards, which reinforces their authority in the programmatic space. Their strong focus on experimentation allows them to continuously innovate and refine digital strategies for clients.
Core Focus
End-to-end programmatic automation with custom analytics.
Recommended For
Brands seeking scalable growth through data-led strategies.
- Website: www.brainlabsdigital.com
- Address: Building 4, 2 Old Street Yard, London, EC1Y 8AF
- Email: Contact Form
2. Journey Further – “Radical Transparency, Real Results”
Journey Further delivers a performance-led programmatic service with an emphasis on transparency and speed. Based in London with additional offices across the UK, they offer frictionless communication and reporting through live dashboards, making them stand out for real-time collaboration.
Their approach combines programmatic media buying with creative optimisation and analytics to maximise ROI. Journey Further works with a variety of high-growth brands across sectors like retail, financial services, and technology.
Their team is made up of media strategists, analysts, and creatives, ensuring each campaign is balanced between performance and branding. The agency’s unique proposition lies in making data accessible and understandable, so clients remain in control of their campaigns.
Main Offering
Real-time campaign delivery and integrated performance reporting.
Ideal For
Businesses demanding total visibility and data transparency.
- Website: www.journeyfurther.com
- Phone: 0113 827 0163
- Address: 88 Kingsway, Holborn London WC2B 6AA
- Email: hello@journeyfurther.com
3. Kepler Group – “Global Tech, Local Precision”
Kepler Group offers enterprise-level programmatic media services, helping brands manage large-scale campaigns with surgical precision. Although part of a global network, the London office delivers tailored strategies suited to UK-specific market behaviours. They integrate customer data platforms with advanced media buying tools to deliver holistic customer journeys.
Kepler’s teams are trained in using platforms such as Google DV360 and The Trade Desk, making them highly adaptable to different client needs. Their client list includes multinational finance, automotive, and retail brands. What sets them apart is their ability to unify creative, media, and analytics into a single operating framework that delivers exceptional performance across the funnel.
Primary Strength
Integrated media and data operations for complex campaigns.
Best Suited To
Large brands needing multi-market, data-driven programmatic delivery.
- Website: www.keplergrp.com
- Phone: +44 (0) 20 3936 9976
- Address: 120 Holborn, 5th Floor London, EC1N 2TD
- Email:
4. Greenlight Digital – “Connecting Brands with Audiences Through Data-Driven Media”
Greenlight Digital is a full-service digital agency based in London, offering comprehensive programmatic advertising solutions tailored to business objectives. With over 20 years of experience, the agency combines performance marketing expertise with cutting-edge technology to run programmatic campaigns that drive measurable results.
Their programmatic services include display, video, audio, and connected TV advertising, delivered through major DSPs like Google DV360 and The Trade Desk.
What sets Greenlight apart is their integration of audience intelligence and behavioural insights into campaign planning. They work closely with clients across sectors such as retail, finance, and B2B, providing strategy, execution, and optimisation under one roof.
The agency is also known for its ethical approach to data usage and commitment to transparency in media buying. As a certified Google Partner, Greenlight ensures access to premium inventory and industry-best practices in campaign delivery.
Key Offering
Full-funnel programmatic execution aligned with audience behaviour.
Ideal Client Type
Brands seeking omnichannel digital growth with transparent ROI tracking.
- Website: www.greenlightdigital.com
- Phone: +44 (0)20 72537000
- Address: 3 Bravingtons Walk, King’s Cross, London, N1 9AJ
- Email: info@greenlightdigital.com
5. Push Group – “Performance Advertising That Delivers”
Push Group is a London-based digital marketing agency known for its strategic use of data, automation, and creativity to drive programmatic success. With a strong foundation in performance marketing, Push integrates programmatic advertising into wider campaigns that include paid social, search, and video.
The agency focuses on delivering measurable growth for its clients through precision targeting and advanced audience segmentation. Their in-house technology stack and transparent reporting systems provide full visibility into campaign performance.
Push Group works with businesses across e-commerce, tech, and services, and is a certified Google Premier Partner an accolade earned by only a small percentage of UK agencies. Their approach is agile, performance-focused, and ideal for brands looking to scale digital acquisition efficiently.
Strategic Edge
Data-driven automation built for high-growth performance.
Well-Suited For
E-commerce and service-based brands seeking scalable lead generation.
- Website: www.pushgroup.co.uk
- Phone: 020 3005 9877
- Address: 75 Bermondsey Street, London SE1 3XF, United Kingdom
- Email: Contact Form
6. ROAST – “Smart Digital Performance for Modern Brands”
ROAST is a London-based digital performance agency that blends creativity, data, and technology to deliver high-impact programmatic advertising campaigns.
As part of the TIPi Group, ROAST offers a holistic digital marketing solution, with programmatic integrated alongside paid media, SEO, content, and analytics. Their programmatic team is skilled in using advanced targeting techniques and real-time bidding to maximise campaign efficiency across display, video, mobile, and CTV platforms.
What sets ROAST apart is their ability to combine data science with audience insights to build campaigns that are not only efficient but strategically aligned with brand goals. Their clients span industries such as travel, education, automotive, and e-commerce.
The agency’s use of proprietary tools and partnerships with leading DSPs ensures access to premium inventory and custom optimisation capabilities. With a culture rooted in transparency and performance, ROAST is trusted by brands that value smart, agile digital strategies.
Core Capability
Cross-channel programmatic strategies backed by deep data analysis.
Tailored To
Brands looking for a balance between creative storytelling and performance marketing.
- Website: www.weareroast.com
- Phone: 020 8102 8500
- Address: 53 Frith Street, Soho, London W1D 4SN, United Kingdom
- Email: hello@weareroast.com
7. Tug Agency – “Where Data Meets Media”
Tug is a full-service digital agency with a performance marketing mindset, offering programmatic solutions tailored for SMEs and mid-market businesses. Their London office delivers integrated campaigns across paid media, SEO, and content, with programmatic playing a central role in driving conversions.
Tug stands out for its flexibility, transparency, and client-centred approach. They operate across multiple DSPs and focus on agile optimisation, allowing them to react quickly to campaign data. Their in-house teams handle both planning and execution, offering continuity and consistency for long-term clients.
Special Focus
Flexible media strategies built for growing businesses.
Works Best For
SMEs and scale-ups needing nimble digital execution.
- Website: www.tugagency.com
- Phone: +44 (0)207 033 6933
- Address: 3rd Floor, 90 Great Suffolk Street, London SE1 0BE, United Kingdom
- Email: hellolondon@tugagency.com
8. M&C Saatchi Performance – “Mobile-First Programmatic Excellence”
M&C Saatchi Performance is a global media agency with a strong programmatic presence in London. They are well-known for delivering mobile-first campaigns using advanced targeting and attribution methods. The agency handles everything from app install campaigns to omnichannel strategies that include video and connected TV.
With a client roster that spans finance, travel, and retail, their approach is grounded in transparency and outcome-based optimisation. Their team has deep knowledge of DSPs, analytics platforms, and media strategy, making them one of the most technically adept agencies in the space.
Service Highlight
App-centric media buying with deep user segmentation.
Recommended For
Brands seeking app installs, mobile engagement, or CTV targeting.
- Website: www.mcsaatchiperformance.com
- Address: 36 Golden Square, London W1F 9EE, United Kingdom
- Email: emea@mcsaatchiperformance.com
9. Digitas UK – “Connecting Data, Media, and People”
Digitas UK brings together media buying, creative, and customer data to deliver meaningful digital campaigns. As part of Publicis Groupe, they have access to global tools and partnerships, yet maintain a distinct voice in the UK market.
Their programmatic advertising solutions are integrated with wider marketing strategies, offering clients the benefit of a connected approach. They are known for pushing the boundaries of digital storytelling, combining automated media with impactful visuals and messaging. Their campaigns are designed to perform across every touchpoint, from awareness to conversion.
Main Capability
Unified brand and performance media under one roof.
Tailored For
Large-scale campaigns that require multi-channel media orchestration.
- Website: www.digitas.com
- Phone: +44 (0) 20 7336 6000
- Address: 40 Chancery Lane, London WC2A 1JA United Kingdom
- Email: info.uk@digitas.com
10. Harvest Digital – “Performance First Since Day One”
Harvest Digital is one of the UK’s oldest digital agencies and has specialised in performance marketing from the beginning. Their programmatic services focus on efficiency and ROI, helping clients optimise their media spend through targeted campaigns and accurate analytics. The agency supports a wide range of sectors including B2B, education, and retail.
They are well-regarded for their strategic planning and have deep experience with programmatic platforms such as Google DV360. Harvest’s small, focused team delivers hands-on management and bespoke solutions tailored to individual business goals.
Key Focus Area
Results-led campaigns backed by strong analytics.
Best For
Mid-sized brands seeking measurable digital performance.
- Website: www.harvestdigital.com
- Phone: +44 (0) 20 7845 9950
- Address: 3–7 Herbal Hill, London EC1R 5EJ, United Kingdom
- Email: info@harvestdigital.com
What Programmatic Advertising Services Do Top London Agencies Offer?
The leading programmatic agencies in London typically provide a comprehensive suite of services that go beyond basic ad placements. At the core of their offerings is real-time bidding (RTB), which allows advertisers to bid on ad inventory in real-time, ensuring that ads are shown to the most relevant audiences.
Other services include dynamic creative optimisation, which tailors ad creatives to individual users based on behaviour, location, or preferences. Cross-device targeting ensures continuity across desktop, mobile, tablet, and connected TV platforms. Agencies also offer advanced retargeting solutions, allowing brands to re-engage users who have already interacted with their website or products.
Reporting and analytics are another crucial part of the service. London agencies pride themselves on delivering transparent, real-time dashboards that give clients full visibility into campaign performance. This enables businesses to make data-backed decisions and continuously refine their strategies.
How Much Should You Budget for Programmatic Advertising in London?
The cost of programmatic advertising in London varies based on the scale of your campaign, the level of targeting required, and the type of ad formats you choose. Larger campaigns that span multiple platforms or include video and rich media will typically require a higher investment.
Here’s a simplified breakdown of typical budget expectations:
| Business Size | Monthly Ad Spend | Typical Services Included |
| Small | £1,000 – £5,000 | Display ads, basic targeting, monthly reports |
| Medium | £5,000 – £20,000 | Multi-platform campaigns, retargeting, analytics |
| Large | £20,000+ | Custom strategy, real-time dashboards, video ads |
Most agencies also charge a management fee usually a percentage of your ad spend which covers strategy, optimisation, and reporting.
What Should You Look for When Choosing a Programmatic Advertising Partner?
Selecting the right programmatic partner in London requires a careful evaluation of their transparency, technology, and experience. Look for an agency that can clearly explain its bidding process, audience segmentation methods, and data sources. This ensures that you’re not only reaching the right people but also getting the best value from your budget.
Experience with leading platforms like Google DV360 or The Trade Desk is also important, as it gives you access to high-quality inventory and better targeting capabilities. Additionally, review case studies and client testimonials to gauge the agency’s ability to deliver results in your industry.
Compliance is non-negotiable. With GDPR and other data privacy regulations in effect, your agency should follow ethical data practices and be transparent about how user data is collected and used.
What Are the Emerging Programmatic Advertising Trends in the UK Market?
As the UK advertising landscape continues to evolve, programmatic is adapting to new technologies and user behaviours. One of the most notable trends is the shift towards first-party data strategies, especially in response to the phasing out of third-party cookies. Businesses are now prioritising data collected directly from their customers, which requires close collaboration between marketers and technology teams.
Another emerging trend is the growth of programmatic audio and connected TV (CTV). More UK consumers are engaging with digital radio and streaming services, creating new opportunities for brands to reach audiences through non-traditional formats.
Artificial intelligence is also playing a greater role in campaign optimisation. Machine learning algorithms can now adjust bids and creatives in real time, significantly improving performance metrics like click-through rates and cost per acquisition.
Finally, ethical advertising and data privacy are taking centre stage. Agencies must balance effective targeting with responsible data usage, and clients are increasingly favouring partners who can demonstrate compliance and transparency.
Conclusion
The right programmatic advertising partner can transform how your business reaches and engages audiences. Whether you aim to increase conversions, raise brand awareness, or enter new markets, London’s top agencies offer tailored solutions that match your objectives.
By combining real-time technology with expert strategy, these companies ensure your message is seen by the right people at the right moment. As the industry evolves, partnering with an experienced, transparent, and forward-thinking agency becomes essential for long-term digital success.
From small businesses looking to get started to large enterprises managing complex campaigns, there’s a programmatic partner in London ready to help you grow.
FAQs About Programmatic Advertising Companies in London
What industries benefit the most from programmatic advertising in the UK?
Industries like retail, finance, healthcare, and technology benefit significantly due to their strong need for targeted, measurable digital campaigns.
How quickly can a programmatic campaign be launched in London?
Campaigns can often be launched within 7 to 14 days, depending on the creative assets, data integration, and platform access.
Are UK programmatic agencies suitable for international campaigns?
Yes. Many London-based agencies work with global clients and offer multilingual, cross-border campaign capabilities using international DSPs.
How do these agencies measure campaign performance?
Performance is tracked using KPIs such as impressions, clicks, conversions, cost per acquisition, and return on ad spend. Real-time dashboards are commonly provided.
Do I need a large ad budget to work with a top programmatic agency?
Not necessarily. Some agencies cater to small and medium-sized businesses with lower budget thresholds, offering efficient targeting strategies.
Which ad platforms are most commonly used by UK agencies?
Popular platforms include Google DV360, The Trade Desk, Amazon DSP, and AppNexus. Many agencies work across multiple platforms for broader reach.
Can programmatic advertising improve brand awareness and ROI?
Absolutely. When executed well, programmatic campaigns can boost visibility while optimising spend through precise targeting and automated bidding.