US-listed global recruitment giant ManpowerGroup has reported constant currency revenue growth in most of the markets it operates in, although currency headwinds are having a negative impact on its reported figures.

Overall revenue for the three months to 30 September, as announced on Friday, was US$4,972.5m (£3,209.5m), down 8.2% from the $5,416m generated in the same period last year. 

In constant currency, though, revenue was up 5.8%. Gross profit was $852.1m, down from $905.6m last year. 

In its financial statement, the company noted “uneven economic conditions” in Europe and other major markets.

“Further recovery may be slow or somewhat volatile,” the statement added.

Demand for services increased in Southern Europe and Northern Europe, with constant currency revenue increasing 8% (reported: -9.1%) and 3.1% (-11.7%) respectively. 

Within those regions, Italy was a standout contributor, with constant currency revenue increase of 31.4% (reported: 10.3%). The company noted its contract with Milan Expo, the 2015 World Expo, in helping revenue growth in Italy. 

In the UK, revenue increased 1.1% in constant currency (reported: -6.2%). The company notes a growth in permanent recruitment partially offset by lower than expected client demand and “overall softening” in the market, particularly in the public services sector. 

The company also said it had entered into a joint venture to expand its business in the Greater China region, though did not offer specific details of the operations of this venture.