On Tuesday, July 4, 2023, the battle broke out in radio land to secure a spot on the FM band starting in September 2023, for a period of 12 years. Since listening via FM still contributes 50% of the total listening time, audibility remains of great importance for both market share and advertising revenue of the stations. In addition, this auction became even more interesting because media operators are now only allowed to operate three lots.
The auction took only four days to show a final list. Then on Friday, July 7, the list of lists came out. A brief recap of events and a look to the future:
Which stations will remain audible on FM?
Talpa retains the licenses of Radio538, Radio 10 and SkyRadio. Mediahuis managed to secure two licenses on FM, Radio Veronica and 100%NL. DPG Media has defended the license for Qmusic and BNR Nieuwsradio will continue to broadcast on FM from September.
What newcomers have joined
DPG Media may start expanding its radio portfolio with an additional frequency. What the plans for this will be is not yet pronounced, but it is likely that the existing online station Joe will be broadcast on this. In addition, the Netherlands will be enriched with an additional news station; Financial News Radio.
Which stations will have to be listened to elsewhere?
Because Mediahuis is going back to two lots, Slam! and Sublime will no longer be heard on FM from September. Loyal listeners will have to switch to DAB+ or online listening. Kink, which single-handedly ensured that the auction took place, also failed to secure a place on FM.
What impact will the auction have for listeners and advertisers?
When listening through the antenna, in some cases the listener will have to search again for the right frequency for the desired station. With digital listening, radios will automatically adjust this themselves.
In addition, the auction also affects advertisers. Contracts with stations are concluded for a calendar year and radio campaigns are strategically tuned for impact. The balance will be taken in the coming days and tailor-made solutions will be offered.