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Business News Deals Media
Bauer Media buys Irish radio firm Communicorp
By Chris Cooke | Published on Thursday 25 February 2021
Bauer Media is further growing its radio business through acquisition, this time in Ireland. The media company has announced a deal to buy the Communicorp Group, the largest commercial radio firm in the Irish market which operates country-wide stations Today FM and Newstalk as well as a number of local radio stations.
The deal does not, however, include Communicorp UK. The Irish company’s UK division operates various local radio stations, but – with one exception – those all use brands and programming provided by Bauer’s main rival Global.
In addition to Today FM and Newstalk, the deal will bring to Bauer Dublin stations Spin 1038 and 98FM, Limerick-based Spin Southwest, digital sports station Off The Ball, and digital platforms audioXI and GoLoud.
Confirming the deal, which is subject to regulatory approval, Bauer Media’s Paul Keenan says: “Radio is very popular in Ireland with more than 80% of the population tuning in every week. The industry makes a vital and much-valued contribution to the country’s rich cultural landscape”.
“Communicorp’s award-winning radio stations are reaching record listening highs”, he continues, “and the combination of these highly valued audiences offered alongside fast-growing and innovative digital brands means they are well-positioned to capitalise on the future development potential of the wider world of audio. This offers more choice for listeners alongside enhanced, targeted solutions for advertisers. We are very much looking forward to working with Communicorp CEO Simon Myciunka and his talented team”.
Commenting on the transaction from its side, Communicorp Chair Lucy Gaffney adds: “Communicorp has been at the forefront of Ireland’s media industry for over 30 years and this agreement marks the culmination of an exciting and dynamic journey, which has enhanced and transformed radio in Ireland”.
“Hundreds of incredibly talented and special people, both in front of and behind the mic, have made that journey possible and I want to thank them for their enormous contribution to the company”, she goes on. “I also want to thank our advertisers, our stakeholders and especially our listeners, for their support and loyalty over many years. Finally, on behalf of the board, I wish Bauer and everyone at Communicorp continued success for the future”.
