Emap Revamps And Expands Kiss FM Radio Network

Emap Radio is expanding its Kiss FM radio network across the south-west and east of England as part of a revamp of the dance music station.

From September 6, Vibe 101 in Bristol and Vibe FM in East Anglia will become Kiss. Kiss 101 (formerly Vibe in Bristol) and Kiss 105-108 (formerly Vibe in East Anglia) will enjoy the best of London’s new line-up with syndicated shows at the weekends as well as benefiting from new local shows throughout the daytime schedule. Emap says that the rebranding from Vibe to Kiss will coincide with a relaunch of the London-based Kiss 100 service with a refreshed, re-invigorated sound; new talent and a new logo and station identity.

Emap bought the Vibe stations in 2005 as part of its acquisition of Scottish Radio Holdings, and after the revamp they will continue to broadcast local breakfast and drivetime shows, whilst benefiting from new and greater access to the DJ talent at Kiss’ disposal.

The move will increase the analogue footprint of Kiss to almost 15 million adults, providing a vastly increased FM analogue distribution, complemented by Kiss’ national digital service on DAB, Freeview, cable & satellite.

The revamped Kiss will put a fresh emphasis on the multi-platform nature of the brand, with the new look and sound being carried across the Kiss TV, mobile, digital radio and website platforms and a fresh emphasis on Kiss-branded CDs and events.

Bill Griffin, managing director of the new Kiss network, said: “Kiss is one of the biggest youth media brands in the UK and is consistently the number one station for 15-34s in London.

“To recognise Kiss’ status as a national media brand, we are building on the current ‘young, fun London’ ethos with a new philosophy – ‘first to move’. We’ll also be putting a fresh emphasis on the multi-platform distribution of Kiss, truly embracing Kiss TV and the Kiss website in the ‘Total Kiss’ world.”

Emap: 01733 568 900 www.emap.co.uk