Bauer Media in Belfast has expanded its reach by enabling online listening across the island of Ireland. For the first time, consumers south of the border will be able to either tune in live or listen in later to the three stations – Cool FM, Downtown Radio and Downtown Country – through its branded mobile apps, on computer and on smart speaker.
The move follows on from the latest audience figures released by RAJAR, which revealed almost half of the North’s population (731,000) regularly listen to Bauer’s three stations. Significantly, Cool FM has claimed number one position with 527,000 weekly listeners, bypassing BBC’s Radio Ulster for the first time in its 30-year history.
The launch of the Cool FM and Downtown Radio streaming apps presents new opportunities for brands. Bauer Media’s recently-appointed managing director David Tighe said the move is a key development for the stations. Commercial director Simon Mann (above) said digital services, spin-offs and on-line listening opportunities help growth.
