Digitale Radio Vlaanderen, the Flemish radio association formed by commercial media groups DPG Media and Radiohuis and public broadcaster VRT has announced that, as of March 1, Flemish FM stations have free access to the Radioplayer platform. Digitale Radio Vlaanderen will finance the licenses.
“We’re talking about a potential of some 120 Flemish FM stations that will have free access to the platform. We hope the number of local FM broadcasters on Radioplayer will increase thanks to our financial support,” explained Vincent Smedts, spokesman of Digitale Radio Vlaanderen. Local Flemish FM stations previously benefited from a reduced rate for access to Radioplayer.be.
We want to ensure the audience can enjoy as many stations as possible on Radioplayer
Tom Klerkx, president of Digitale Radio Vlaanderen
“Digital radio has a future ahead,” commented Flemish Media Minister Benjamin Dalle. “That’s why I support the digitization of the radioscape. I’m happy that Digitale Radio Vlaanderen has an eye for local radio. Local stations have a role to play in the digital transfer but very often face financial problems. A free license to Radioplayer.be is an interesting opportunity for these broadcasters, I hope they will make use of it.”
Tom Klerkx, president of Digitale Radio Vlaanderen, added that it all has to do with safeguarding the future of the digital medium. “The digital audience is growing on DAB+, smart speakers and other digital devices,” he said. “Radioplayer is the platform where listeners can find their stations in the best possible way. We want to ensure the audience can enjoy as many stations as possible on Radioplayer.”