The latest RAJAR (Radio Joint Audience Research) report shows commercial radio reaching unprecedented levels across major networks, with record-breaking numbers in audience figures: Global commands 26.7 million listeners, Bauer 22.4 million, and News Broadcasting 6.7 million. Overall, commercial radio now boasts a record reach of 38.7 million weekly listeners, surpassing the BBC by six million.

Meanwhile, the BBC Local Radio network in England has seen a 7% drop in its audience, with weekly reach slipping from 5.6 million to 5.2 million. While some local stations experienced an increase—BBC Essex and Three Counties saw 20% gains, BBC Somerset recorded a 22% boost, and BBC Radio Northampton surged 41%—others declined. BBC Radio Oxford, BBC Radio Cambridgeshire, and BBC Radio Tees saw decreases of 20%, 14%, and 12%, respectively. BBC Radio London’s weekly audience also declined, from 625,000 to 564,000, marking a 10% drop.

In a historic shift, online platforms now account for a larger share of commercial radio listening than traditional analogue (AM/FM). Online listening now makes up 28% of all commercial listening, compared to analogue’s 27%. Global continues to dominate the commercial sector, with Heart, Capital, and Smooth as the top three commercial brands in the UK, and in London, where Global’s Heart, Capital, and LBC lead in reach.

Bauer has also exceeded expectations with digital listening rates at 77.7%, well above the industry’s 67.7% average. Leading brands like Absolute Radio place Bauer in six of the top ten digital commercial slots. News Broadcasting has the highest digital reach, with 86% of its listening hours sourced from digital platforms, including DAB (Digital Audio Broadcasting) and streaming.

Digital listening now comprises 68% of total radio listening, with 39.8% coming from DAB and 24.4% from online streaming. Smart speakers, too, are making their mark, accounting for 14% of online listening time. Across both BBC and commercial stations, the UK’s combined weekly audience stands at 49.4 million, covering 88% of the adult population.

This surge in listenership has energised the radio industry, and Radiocentre CEO Matt Payton has praised the recent RAJAR results, noting that strong investment and innovation by radio groups have driven growth. With digital and smart speaker use on the rise, Payton highlighted the Media Bill’s importance in safeguarding UK radio’s future.

Executives from Global, Bauer, News Broadcasting, and BBC Radio echoed Payton’s sentiment, attributing success to their teams’ dedication and the ability to deliver content that resonates with listeners.

The latest RAJAR report makes it clear: UK radio is thriving, with commercial radio breaking records and digital platforms rapidly reshaping how audiences engage. As the industry embraces the digital shift, its commitment to delivering quality content is stronger than ever, fortified by legislative support and a focus on evolving listener preferences. The future of radio, it seems, is in good hands.