Bauer Media has created the largest commercial radio network in the UK, as stations from the acquired ex-Celador Radio, Lincs FM, UKRD and ex-Wireless groups, are integrated into the Hits Radio Brand Network today.
The national network is comprised of Hits Radio, Country Hits Radio and Greatest Hits Radio. Most of the stations will rebrand to Greatest Hits Radio, while a small number retain their own branding and feature Hits Radio content and presenters.
On Greatest Hits Radio, upbeat classic hits from the ‘70s, ‘80s and ‘90s will be complemented by a team of some of Britain’s most loved and trusted broadcasters, including Simon Mayo, Mark Goodier, Janice Long, Paul Gambaccini and Pat Sharp.
Audiences listening to Greatest Hits Radio will be served news bulletins carrying locally gathered stories, local traffic bulletins and local information to reflect the interests of each market, and the station will be marketed nationally through a campaign blending TV activity, national and regional press, digital ad social platforms, and radio.
Dee Ford CBE, Group Managing Director Radio, Bauer Radio, said: “We’re so pleased to be officially bringing the all-new Greatest Hits Radio Network to air today. It will be a major part of the UK’s biggest commercial radio network – offering the most popular music format in UK radio brought to life by the most loved and trusted broadcasters. Listeners from all corners of our nation will benefit from the local news and information they value and from having local teams support on-air and off-air initiatives. Advertisers, both locally and nationally, will be able to access deeply engaged audiences on all broadcast platforms.”
Hits Radio, Country Hits Radio and Greatest Hits Radio are available on a combination of platforms, depending on location, including DAB, AM/FM, and via app and smart speakers.