the radio market | France

1.1 Definition and scope of the study

Broadcasting (abbreviated radio) refers to the emission of signals via electromagnetic waves that are received directly by the public. Several types of radio stations can be distinguished in France:

• Public Service Radio These are attached to three groups, Radio France, Radio France Internationale and France Télévisions;
• Private radio stations (associative or commercial).

Radio stations with a wide variety of content and audience shares coexist in France, with generalist, thematic, local, community and international stations sharing the market.

RTL and France Inter remain the most listened-to radio stations in France Radio France is the leading radio group in France, with a stable market share. This position allows them to sign many advertising contracts, particularly with the mass retail sector which accounts for nearly 40% of the sector's advertising revenue.

Radio stations, especially music stations (NRJ, Skyrock, Fun radio) suffer from competition from social networks and streaming (Spotify, Deezer, Apple Music...). The drop in the audience concerns especially the 13-24 year olds, while only 68% of 13-24 year olds listened to the radio at least once in the day in 2019, they were more than 80% 10 years ago.

To face the rise of competing services, radio stations can count on a loyal older audience, a high cumulative audience (over 75%) and a substantial listening time. To renew themselves, radio stations are now focusing on technological innovations such as web radio, the creation of shared content and the explosion of listening to podcasts .