Bauer to take Communicorp
Today (25th February) The Bauer Group has announced its deal to aquire Dennis O'Brien's Communicorp Group. Bauer will extend its reach into Ireland and eight other countries. Communicorp own Ireland's Newstalk and TodayFM, they also own local Irish broadcasters Spin, Spin South West and 98FM, along with online services Off the Ball, audioXI and GoLoud. The deal is subject to regulatory approval.
Bauer Media Audio is one of Europe's leading digital commercial broadcasters. They reach over 55 million listeners each day. The currently have operations in 7 countries, including the UK, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland, Poland and Slovakia. Owning brands such as KISS, Mix Megapol and Absolute Radio.
Communicorp's portfolio of brands include 2 Irish national radio broadcasters (Newstalk and Today FM), 2 local Dublin stations (Spin and 98FM) and 1 regional station Spin South West.
Paul Keenan, President of Bauer Media Audio comments, “Radio is very popular in Ireland with more than 80% of the population tuning in every week. The industry makes a vital and much-valued contribution to the country’s rich cultural landscape. Communicorp’s award-winning radio stations are reaching record listening highs, and the combination of these highly valued audiences offered alongside fast growing and innovative digital brands means they are well positioned to capitalise on the future development potential of the wider world of audio. This offers more choice for listeners alongside enhanced, targeted solutions for advertisers. We are very much looking forward to working with Communicorp CEO Simon Myciunka and his talented team.”
Commenting on the announcement, Communicorp Chairperson, Lucy Gaffney, said: “Communicorp has been at the forefront of Ireland’s media industry for over 30 years and this agreement marks the culmination of an exciting and dynamic journey, which has enhanced and transformed radio in Ireland. Hundreds of incredibly talented and special people, both in front of and behind the mic, have made that journey possible and I want to thank them for their enormous contribution to the company. I also want to thank our advertisers, our stakeholders and especially our listeners, for their support and loyalty over many years. Finally, on behalf of the Board, I wish Bauer and everyone at Communicorp continued success for the future.”