Want to buy a handful of FM radio stations?
Another series of FM radio stations went into administration this week, namely those that were part of the South West Radio Group - amongst which were Bath FM, Brunel FM and Minehead and Watchet's Quay West FM.
It is sad that this group of stations has gone under, and I feel for those employed by the stations, however it does represent an opportunity for a forward thinking investor.
Many FM stations are crashing to the ground at the moment, as they are expensive to run, are governed on what they can do by Ofcom rules, and advertising income is on a downturn currently. That said, there have been some good examples of smaller companies and individuals taking over stations that had gone into admin, and turning them around.
A lot of the time, all it takes is a couple of new presenters and a new Sales Manager to make that difference!
Had my own finances been better, I would bid for Quay West and Bath FM, and if the right investors come in with me, I still may!
I think Ofcom's decision to have so many community radio stations is a factor in the number of local radio stations folding. Let's face it, there is only so much advertising out there and when you have so many radio stations in one area, they are all fighting for that ad revenue.
It will be interesting to see what happens to these local stations over the next week or two.
Ross
It is sad that this group of stations has gone under, and I feel for those employed by the stations, however it does represent an opportunity for a forward thinking investor.
Many FM stations are crashing to the ground at the moment, as they are expensive to run, are governed on what they can do by Ofcom rules, and advertising income is on a downturn currently. That said, there have been some good examples of smaller companies and individuals taking over stations that had gone into admin, and turning them around.
A lot of the time, all it takes is a couple of new presenters and a new Sales Manager to make that difference!
Had my own finances been better, I would bid for Quay West and Bath FM, and if the right investors come in with me, I still may!
I think Ofcom's decision to have so many community radio stations is a factor in the number of local radio stations folding. Let's face it, there is only so much advertising out there and when you have so many radio stations in one area, they are all fighting for that ad revenue.
It will be interesting to see what happens to these local stations over the next week or two.
Ross