Competitors join forces to promote digital radio down under

Retailers and manufacturers of digital radio products have joined forces to ensure a united effort in launching digital radio in Australia later this year. Meeting for the first time with radio industry executives in Sydney yesterday, Australia’s leading retailers and manufacturers have formed a Broadcasters, Retailers and Receiver Manufacturers Digital Radio Advisory Group, which will meet on a monthly basis to discuss strategy for the launch of digital radio.

The group includes senior representatives from Australian retailers, and overseas manufacturers like Philips, Samsung, Yamaha and Revo. Other manufacturers including Panasonic, TEAC, Sony, Pioneer and JVC have been invited to join the group.

CEO of Commercial Radio Australia, Joan Warner, said discussions at the inaugural meeting focussed on the marketing and communications plan for digital radio, information on training and education for retailers, as well as product availability and price. “Overseas experience shows us that for digital radio to succeed the radio industry must work closely with retailers and manufacturers to ensure everyone is well prepared for the digital switch-on,” Ms Warner said. 

“It is a significant feat bringing retailers and manufacturers together, particularly those with competitive commercial interests, but it is essential that discussions on a uniform approach to timelines and various issues, like training and marketing have begun.”

Ms Warner added that an important issue discussed at the meeting was the tracking of receiver sales to provide critical feedback to all those involved in the launch of digital radio.

(Source: Asia-Pacific Broadcasting Union)