Bauer Media Audio UK has reached a remarkable 23.4 million weekly listeners, showing a 0.7% increase from last year, according to the latest RAJAR results for Q4 2024.
This achievement confirms Bauer’s status as a top player in the industry. It significantly contributes to the total commercial radio audience of 40 million.
Hits Radio and Greatest Hits Radio
The Hits Radio Portfolio, made up of Hits Radio and Greatest Hits Radio, now has an all-time high of 13.3 million listeners, reflecting a 10.6% growth year on year. When including partner stations, the reach expands to 15.4 million, representing a 9.3% increase.
The Hits Radio Network alone attracts 7.2 million listeners, demonstrating a 13.2% rise, while the national Hits Radio station has surged to 4.7 million, up 228% from last year.
Greatest Hits Radio remains the UK’s most listened-to commercial station, with 7.4 million listeners, up by 9.1%. Ken Bruce leads the way as the most popular commercial radio show host. He attracts 4 million listeners. Kate Thornton is the top solo female presenter on commercial radio.
Simon Mayo continues to have the leading commercial drive time show, with 2.8 million listeners, and Rossie at Breakfast has crossed the 3 million mark for the first time. Additionally, Greatest Hits Radio 60s has debuted strongly with 386,000 listeners.
Absolute Radio
The Absolute Radio Network now reaches 5.6 million listeners, a 6.1% increase, with Absolute Radio Country achieving a record 610,000 weekly listeners, up 49.9%, and Absolute Radio 90’s reaching 1 million, reflecting an 8.6% rise.
The Dave Berry Breakfast Show has hit a record audience of 2.4 million, with the Hometime Show with Bush & Richie attracting 2.2 million listeners, a 6.9% increase.
Magic Radio
Magic Radio has grown to 3.5 million listeners and is set to welcome new talents like Gok Wan and Gaby Roslin, boosting its appeal. The show Magic at the Musicals has also reached a new peak of 298,000 listeners.
KISS
The KISS Network has 3.8 million listeners, with KISSTORY leading as the number one digital-only commercial station. The new KISSTORY R&B station debuted with an impressive 530,000 listeners.
Approximately a third of Bauer’s audience tunes in through smart devices, including speakers and apps, while 54% listen via DAB. Bauer boasts three of the top five digital commercial stations. KISSTORY is number one. Absolute Radio is number two. Absolute 80s is number four.
Simon Myciunka, CEO of Bauer Media Audio UK, stated that these results reflect the strength of their brands. He also credited the dedication of their teams. The growth of Hits Radio and Greatest Hits Radio shows that their content connects well with listeners. They aim to continue enhancing their offerings and providing quality audio experiences for audiences and partners.
Gary Stein is the Director of Audio at Bauer Media Audio UK. He noted that the results highlight the strong bond audiences have with the talent behind Bauer’s brands. He expressed excitement about the future. They are welcoming new presenters to Magic Radio. He thanked the on-air talent for their ongoing engagement with listeners across the nation.