By Alex Williamson, Managing Partner
The BBC is currently on a journey to launch new DAB+ stations. At markettiers, we believe Ofcom must ensure these new stations don’t simply provide entertainment, but deliver public value, particularly in the form of unbiased and trusted news.
Radio continues to hold a rare position in the UK media ecosystem – it’s one of the most trusted sources of news, consistently outperforming both television and digital platforms in credibility. At a time when local coverage is in decline and the landscape is shifting, the BBC has both an opportunity and an obligation to fill the widening gap in reliable, locally relevant information.
A Strategic Moment for UK Radio: Trust, Reach, and Innovation
The UK radio landscape stands at a pivotal juncture. The launch of new DAB+ stations presents a valuable opportunity for the BBC to lead in innovation - testing fresh formats, reaching greater audiences, and embracing novel modes of listener interaction. But this new progression must not come at the cost of the credibility and trust radio stations uphold.
Radio’s greatest strength remains its trustworthiness. In an era where public confidence in media is increasingly fragmented and politicised, trust becomes a rare and powerful tool - shaping influence, commanding attention, and guiding behaviour.
In this context, public value extends far beyond cultural programming or diverse music curation. It means delivering dependable, timely news, both national and, where possible, local. These bulletins are not mere fillers. They play a crucial role serving as essential touchpoints offering reliable updates ensuring that listeners stay informed and connected to their communities in a rapidly shifting world.
A Chance for Ofcom to Reinforce What Makes UK Broadcasting Unique
This isn’t just a regulatory decision but rather a broader industry signal. Ofcom now has a chance to reinforce what makes UK broadcasting special: its ability to balance wide reach with public responsibility, and to maintain trust while adapting to new formats.
As these stations come online, they’ll serve as a test case for how innovation and public service can coexist in modern media. They’ll also influence how platforms evolve, how audiences respond, and ultimately how trust is distributed across the media spectrum.
That’s a dynamic worth watching, particularly for those who rely on trusted channels to build engagement, drive messaging, and understand the changing rhythms of media consumption.
If you would like to speak to us about capturing the public’s attention through earned media, or maximising your next marketing campaign, get in touch.