London/Hamburg November 10, 2022 – Today, Bauer Media Audio – Europe’s leading commercial radio and audio operator – has announced that it has entered into an agreement to acquire one of Ireland’s leading regional radio stations, Cork’s Red FM. The acquisition is subject to regulatory approval.

With this deal, Bauer Media Audio further cements its position in the European radio market, reaching more than 61 million listeners across 9 countries every week.

Red FM is Cork’s most popular radio station, with more than 129,000 listeners tuning in every day to hear favourites such as The Neil Prendeville Show, More Music with Philip Bourke and Dave Mac’s Drive. Bauer Media Audio is committed to ensuring that Red FM continues to grow and develop, providing investment and innovation to create an even better listener experience for the people of Cork, and allowing Red FM to continue providing the music, entertainment and great local news and information that listeners value.

Since its entry into the Irish market Bauer Media Audio has driven the growth of the country’s radio and audio sector, leading on innovation and excellence for listeners and commercial partners alike. Under Bauer Media Audio leadership, Irish radio brands Today FM, Newstalk and SPIN have all increased their audience listenership, in addition to being recognised at the annual IMRO Radio Awards for their successes. The business has also invested to launch the GoLoud podcast network – home to some of Ireland’s most listened to podcasts – and invested in audioXi – Ireland’s largest digital audio advertising exchange.

Speaking on the transaction, Richard Dawkins, President of Audio, Bauer Media Group said “Cork’s Red FM is an important contributor to Cork’s media and cultural landscape, providing audiences with much loved entertainment and essential local news and information. Red FM is a fantastic addition to the Bauer Media Audio Ireland portfolio, and will continue to grow and develop as part of our business. Together, Red FM and Bauer Media Audio will continue serving the needs of listeners and commercial partners, both in Cork and further afield.”

Diarmuid O’ Leary, CEO at Red FM added: “Over the past two decades, Cork’s Red FM has grown to become the region’s most popular radio station, informing and entertaining listeners across the city and county. I’d like to thank everyone who’s been a part of this journey for their contribution. Red FM is now ready to embark on a new chapter, and I’m sure that as a valued part of Bauer Media Audio, the station will continue to soar to even greater heights.”

ENDS

About Bauer Media Audio
Bauer Media Audio  is Europe’s leading digital commercial radio broadcaster and audio operator. Experts in the power of sound, the company reaches over 61 million listeners weekly through its broadcast radio, online services, and podcasts. Spanning 9 countries - the UK, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Ireland, Finland, Poland, Slovakia and Portugal, Bauer Media Audio owns leading brands including Today FM, KISS, Mix Megapol, Absolute Radio, Radio Norge, Radio Expres, Radio Nova, Radio 100, RMF and Radio Comercial.  

Press contacts:

Cat Martin
Communications Director, Bauer Media Audio
cat.martin@bauermedia.co.uk
T: +44 207 432 3317
M: +44 7932 746363

Cameron Frazer
Senior Communications Executive, Bauer Media Audio
cameron.frazer@bauermedia.co.uk
M: +44 7759 127434