C4 Makes History With Radio Launch
Channel 4 has launched its new radio station, which will take advantage of the absence of regulation and challenge traditional radio operators.
Channel4radio.com is an historic move for the broadcaster, which for over two decades has focused primarily on television broadcasting. The channel’s online service will focus on commissioning radio programmes for users to download onto their computer or onto a device such as a mobile phone or Ipod.
It is believed that the move is an attempt by Channel 4 to end the BBC’s dominance of radio, although it will also threaten other commercial broadcasters. Channel 4 is expected to explore advertising funding and subscription models as it builds the overall internet service, although there is not a lot of obvious premium radio content that listeners are expected to want to pay for.
Channel 4 is also said to be interested in securing digital radio capacity this year for a cluster of national stations. Ofcom is due to hold a multiplex for a second block of commercial digital radio frequencies, which will see the various broadcasters bidding for the space.
GCap holds the first commercial block and the second block is big enough for around eight new national stations. Channel 4’s chief executive, Andy Duncan, is reportedly hoping to lead a consortium to win the licence. Earlier in the year, Duncan outlined the broadcaster’s vision for such a service at the Oxford Media Convention (see Duncan Asserts Importance Of PSB For Channel 4).
Ofcom is said to be hoping that only one bidder will emerge for the licence and is trying to encourage a grand coalition of the commercial radio groups. Channel 4 has had discussions with Emap about a joint bid, but Chrysalis is apparently unimpressed by Channel 4’s efforts to enter and dominate the radio sector.
At the launch of Channel 4 Radio, Duncan said: “Commercial radio needs an injection of fresh thinking. We’re confident that the strength of the talent we can bring to radio, the experience of the radio team we’re building and our unique creative approach is a powerful combination that will ultimately enhance commercial radio in the UK.”
Nathalie Schwarz, director of radio, added: “Our ambition is to secure digital radio licences and launch 4-branded radio stations. We believe there is a gap for us in the market, a chance to bring Channel 4’s spirit of innovation and risk-taking to radio, to extend the range of programming on offer, bring new advertisers to the medium and help strengthen the UK commercial radio sector.”
Some of the station’s existing shows like UK Lost and Big Brother will be extended to the radio station, while Channel 4 has also committed to commissioning new, original programmes. Later this year, Channel 4 Radio will also launch a major interactive radio first – a chance for listeners to direct every aspect of the construction of a new music radio station, which will be “built” from scratch from the Channel 4 Radio website.
Channel Four: 020 7396 4444 www.channel4.com