In the UK, digital radio is broadcast in bundles of radio stations – these are called multiplexes. There are three national multiplexes, one for the BBC and two for the commercial sector. There’s also around 50 local multiplexes – these are broadly county sized.
Before starting Folder Media, the management team was involved in creating the first national commercial multiplex – Digital One, and established and launched the Now Digital network of local multiplexes.
When we started Folder Media, we also created MuxCo to bid for new local multiplexes. We ended up winning ten of the thirteen advertised.
We have created a bespoke multiplex management team, led by Nicky Tate, who looks after all of the MuxCo multiplexes. In addition, we also manage the Wireless Group multiplexes in London, Central Scotland and Aberdeen, and currently look after Bauer’s multiplexes in Bradford, Stoke and Swansea.
More recently Ofcom has announced it will be advertising new small-scale multiplexes. We’ve been talking to groups who want to apply for these licences and have developed a service that will manage the multiplexes on their behalf.
For more information contact Matt Deegan.