Station Profile: Real Radio Wales
- Published: 25 September 2007 15:52
- Last Updated: 26 September 2007 09:54
A in-depth look at the radio station Real Radio Wales. Includes an interview with managing director of Real Radio Wales Andy Carter.
Head office: Morganstown, Cardiff
No of staff: 48
Key presenters: Bobby McVey and Angela Jay, Chris Moore and Steve Wiggins, the Real Sports Phone-in Team
Key executives: Andy Carter, managing director; Ricky Durkin, programme director; Tony Dowling, sales director
Most recent Rajars: Weekly reach of 402,000 adults and 4.2 million listening hours
Owner: Part of the three-station Real brand owned by GMG Radio
Quote: "Real Radio Wales was the first station in our group. It launched with the UK's best debut audience for a regional radio station and waves the flag for the Real Radio brand across the UK" John Myers – chief executive, GMG Radio
Behind the Mic: Andy Carter
Andy Carter joined GMG Radio as launch programme director of Real Radio in Yorkshire before moving to its sister station to became managing director of Real Radio Wales in 2002
What other radio stations do you listen to?
Smooth Radio which has a great variety of music and Radio 5 Live for news. It actually takes a bit of getting used to on DAB, as there's no hissy crackle.
How could the BBC and commercial radio work together?
The impact of Radio 1 and 2 is an issue for programming directors. Perhaps the BBC should use its might to drive digital audiences. It could transfer Radio 1 and 2 to DAB five years ahead of the rest of the industry.
How do you think the commercial radio sector will operate in 10 years' time?
Probably with fewer owners and more formats, meaning more choice for listeners. I'd like to see a national commercial station for Wales competing against BBC Radio Wales.
What is the most exciting trend you've seen in recent years?
The process of consolidation seems quite exciting at the moment, with GMG well placed to be a big part of the future of commercial radio. Digital radio is certainly offering more choice and I suspect areas like Wales will benefit from the development of DRM to complement DAB in the coming years.
What are the biggest challenges facing the radio sector at the moment?
Radio has its place in the digital era and we'll need to make sure that advertisers and agencies understand that.
Who is the best person you've ever worked with?
The best people to work with are those you can learn from, be they chief execs, journalists, programme producers or station receptionists who tend to know what's going on in the station and out on the street.
How do you think commercial radio revenues could be improved?
Nobody ever became a millionaire by making savings. We need to continually invest in our product and shout very loudly about the fact that commercial radio gets results.
What are your tips for dealing with talent?
Be fair, honest and give people the space to succeed. I try to treat people the way I would want to be treated. I hate not being told the truth, even when it sometimes might hurt a little.
