RAJAR Revises Data Release Arrangements
Radio audience measurement body RAJAR has confirmed plans to release its quarterly listening figures earlier in the day following enquiries from a number of commercial radio stations.
The move follows concerns raised by a number of large market-listed broadcasters that the release of highly anticipated audience data early to RAJAR subscribers presented the potential for insider trading prior to the data’s public release.
Although there is no evidence of such abuse, the measurement body has moved to amend its data release arrangements to quell concerns. Currently it is common for the share prices of the four listed radio groups, Capital, GWR, Chrysalis and Emap to fluctuate as analysts and investors try to anticipate the outcome of the RAJAR results.
Subscribers will receive the audience data at 5.30pm on the eve of the release date. The data will be embargoed until 7.00am the following morning when the media and City will receive the top-line figures. A press conference will then be held at 9.30am. RAJAR’s new arrangements will come into effect on 21 October when data for the three months to September 2004 is released.
Commenting on the new release procedure, Jenny Abramsky, RAJAR board director and director of BBC Radio and Music said: “We recognise how important the timing of the release of data is for the commercial sector and we are, therefore, happy to support this change.”
Paul Brown, RAJAR board director and chief executive of the Commercial Radio Companies Association, added: “This alteration in the data release will be welcomed by those of our members who are listed companies.”
RAJAR has been in the spotlight recently with the launch of a major consultation with advertisers, media agencies and broadcasters on the best way to develop its current diary system of audience measurement. The initiative has the backing of industry bodies, ISBA and the IPA (see RAJAR Launches Consultation On Electronic Measurement).
RAJAR: 020 7903 535 www.rajar.co.uk
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