RAB: Q1 radio revenues jumped 6%

It was the best performance since Q1 2007 as US radio revenues increased 6% year-over-year in Q1 2010. Radio Advertising  Bureau (RAB) President and CEO Jeff Haley is jubilant, reporting gains in major categories such as Automotive, Communications, TV/Cable, Financial Services, Grocery and Retail.

“Our growth in this recovery is showing signs that Radio’s momentum is outpacing that of other traditional media. This gain underscores Radio’s inherent strength with advertisers demonstrating renewed enthusiasm for spending in our medium,” declared Haley.

The pace of recovery was not enjoyed equally on a regional basis, although all five were in the plus column. The Eastern Region was the place to be, posting a gain of 12.7%, followed by Southwest (9.7%), Central (6.7%), West (4.5%) and South (3.5%).

“Spending levels in important Radio categories such as Automotive, Communications, TV/Cable, Financial Services, Grocery, and Retail are all up significantly from what we saw a year ago,” added Haley.  “First quarter’s results prove that advertisers have found and, in many instances, rediscovered Radio.  With ever-expanding Digital and Off-Air vehicles adding to Radio’s appeal to advertisers and marketers, this growth trend will continue to gain momentum.”

RBR-TVBR observation: The fact that the concept of easy comps has doubtlessly been redefined downward forever is no reason to diminish this feat. The turning point had to come somewhere, and now is better than later. The trick going forward will be to keep the black ink flowing – more easy comps await! – and then post a black over black quarter in Q1 2011.

Source: RAB