Bauer Media is today announcing that the North Yorkshire-based radio stations they acquired in 2019 will join their Hits Radio Brand Network, creating the UK’s largest commercial radio network.
The integration will mean that stations including Minster FM, Stray FM and Yorkshire Coast Radio will rebrand as Greatest Hits Radio, delivering the optimum mix of local content that listeners highly value alongside content from nationally known presenters.
Where possible, stations who previously were only accessible via FM or AM radio will secure a multi-platform digital future, with access to DAB digital radio. This is a crucial move in a radio market which is seeing a significant shift towards consumption on digital platforms and allows extended coverage for audiences.
Dee Ford CBE, Group Managing Director Radio, Bauer Radio comments, “Audiences love and trust radio. Expanding the Hits Radio Brand Network will ensure listeners to these acquired stations benefit from multi-platform digital distribution meaning they can continue to broadcast in an increasingly competitive, digital and voice-activated world. This ensures the provision of local news and information, traffic and travel.”
Hits Radio Brand Network comprises:
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- Hits Radio – delivering a music proposition which is a soundtrack of the biggest hits and nostalgic throwback tracks and local breakfast shows.
- Greatest Hits Radio – offering classic hits from the ‘70s, ‘80s and ‘90s alongside regional drive time and networked breakfast shows.
- Country Hits Radio – playing the very best country pop music.
These changes do unfortunately mean that some roles will be put into consultation and freelance contracts reviewed. Bauer Media is fully committed to supporting all affected employees throughout this period and will be working closely with them over the months ahead. A period of consultation with employees potentially affected will commence today.
Graham Bryce, Group Managing Director – Hits Radio Network Brand, said, “We are committed to ensuring the future of radio in local markets and serving the needs of our listeners and advertisers. However, our top priority right now will be to support those affected through this period.”
