The latest RAJAR figures for Q1 2026 reveal a dynamic and evolving radio landscape, with digital listening continuing to dominate and commercial radio extending its lead over the BBC. The data underscores a shift towards connected and on-demand listening, with broadcasters increasingly focusing on apps, streaming platforms, and smart speaker distribution. Here's a deep dive into the key findings and my analysis of this ever-changing media environment.
Digital Listening Dominance
One of the most striking trends is the continued growth of digital listening. Online listening across all radio hit a record 30.4% share of total listening hours, comfortably ahead of traditional AM and FM listening, which now stands at 24%. This shift towards digital is a testament to the power of on-demand, connected listening, and it's a trend that broadcasters are increasingly capitalizing on.
What makes this particularly fascinating is the way it's reshaping the entire radio ecosystem. Traditional radio stations are having to adapt to stay relevant, and many are doing so by offering digital-first content and integrating smart speaker distribution. This shift is not just about convenience; it's about reaching audiences where they are, and it's forcing broadcasters to rethink their strategies and invest in new technologies.
Commercial Radio's Lead
Commercial radio is now accounting for 54.3% of all radio listening, compared to 43.4% for the BBC. This represents a difference of 7.91 million listeners. The figures further underline the continuing shift towards connected and on-demand listening, with broadcasters increasingly focusing on apps, streaming platforms, and smart speaker distribution. This trend is particularly notable in the commercial sector, where online listening now represents almost a third of all listening hours.
In my opinion, this is a significant development. It suggests that commercial radio is not just adapting to the digital age; it's thriving in it. The ability to reach audiences on-demand and across multiple platforms is a powerful advantage, and it's one that commercial radio is leveraging to extend its lead over the BBC.
Smart Speakers and Connected Listening
Smart speakers continue to drive listening growth, with listening through smart speakers now accounting for 18.8% of total listening, up year-on-year from 17.6%. Commercial radio performs particularly strongly on smart speakers, where they now deliver 21.8% of listening hours, rising from 21.4% last year and overtaking AM/FM listening, which has dropped to 19.1%.
What this really suggests is that smart speakers are becoming a central part of the listening experience. They offer a seamless, integrated listening environment, and they're particularly appealing to younger audiences who are comfortable with technology. This trend is a powerful reminder of the importance of staying ahead of the curve in terms of technology and innovation.
Local Radio and Brand Performance
Across the UK, local radio stations are experiencing mixed results. BBC Local Radio saw 19 of 37 measured stations increase their audience, while Greatest Hits Radio recorded increases at 24 of its 56 local stations, and Hits Radio had 18 stations up and 21 down. Capital's local stations were mostly down, while Heart performed more strongly, with 14 of its 23 local stations up.
One thing that immediately stands out is the importance of local branding and identity. Stations that have successfully adapted to the digital age while maintaining a strong local focus have seen stronger results. This suggests that a balanced approach, combining digital innovation with a commitment to local communities, is key to success in the modern radio landscape.
The BBC's Performance
The BBC remains the UK's biggest radio broadcaster, with 31.4 million people tuning into its stations each week. Overall BBC radio share increased to 43.4% during the first quarter of 2026, while weekly reach stands at 54% of the UK population. The figures are also the first to include listening data for the BBC's new DAB+ spin-off stations, launched last autumn.
From my perspective, this is a testament to the BBC's ability to adapt and innovate. While commercial radio is extending its lead, the BBC is still a major player, and its commitment to local and national radio services, as well as its digital offerings, is a powerful reminder of its resilience and adaptability.
Global and Bauer's Performance
Global gets 29 million weekly listeners, 279 million listening hours, and a 27.7% share of all radio listening this quarter. The company says its brands continue to dominate commercial radio, with Heart remaining the UK's biggest commercial radio brand on 12.5 million listeners a week. Bauer, on the other hand, has seen KISS bounce back with a 15% quarterly increase for the main station following its relaunch and refreshed presenter line-up.
What this suggests is that a strong brand identity and a commitment to innovation are key to success in the commercial radio sector. Both Global and Bauer are leveraging their brands to stay ahead of the curve, and their focus on digital and smart speaker distribution is a powerful reminder of the importance of staying ahead of the digital curve.
News Broadcasting and Independent Radio
News Broadcasting, which includes talkSPORT, Times Radio, Talk, and Virgin Radio UK, has held onto its position as the UK's most digital radio broadcaster, with 87% of all listening now coming through digital platforms. GB News Radio says it has recorded the fastest year-on-year audience growth of any UK network service, increasing its weekly reach by 21% over the past year.
This trend towards digital-first, opinion-led content is particularly notable in the news broadcasting sector. Listeners are increasingly turning to digital platforms for breaking news and in-depth analysis, and this trend is likely to continue as technology advances and audiences become more demanding.
Takeaway
The latest RAJAR figures reveal a dynamic and evolving radio landscape, with digital listening continuing to dominate and commercial radio extending its lead over the BBC. The data underscores a shift towards connected and on-demand listening, with broadcasters increasingly focusing on apps, streaming platforms, and smart speaker distribution. As we move forward, the ability to adapt to these changes and stay ahead of the curve will be crucial for broadcasters looking to thrive in this ever-changing media environment.
