Australian retailers and manufacturers have come together to support the launch of digital radio by joining forces on a united effort to launch the new transmission method onto the Australian market later this year.
Meeting for the first time with radio industry executives yesterday in Sydney, Australia’s leading retailers and manufacturers have formed the Broadcasters, Retailers and Receiver Manufacturers Digital Radio Advisory Group, which will meet on a monthly basis to discuss strategy for the launch of digital radio.
The group includes senior representatives from retailers Harvey Norman, Domayne, Clive Peeters, Dick Smith and manufacturers like Philips, Samsung, Yamaha, Revo, Bush Australia and Pure Australasia. Other leading retailers such as Bing Lee, Target, Myer, David Jones, Strathfield Group and JB Hi Fi have also been invited to join the group as have other manufacturers including Panasonic, TEAC, Sony, Pioneer and JVC.
Broadcasters from the major networks involved in the launch including Austereo, DMG, ARN and Sky Racing also attended to outline the broadcasters’ position.
Discussions at the inaugural meeting focussed on the marketing and communications plan for digital radio, information on training and education for retailers, as well as product availability and price.
Commercial Radio Australia’s Joan Warner has told radioinfo:
“Overseas experience shows us that for digital radio to succeed the radio industry must work closely with retailers and manufacturers to ensure everyone is well prepared for the digital switch-on.
“It is a significant feat bringing retailers and manufacturers together, particularly those with competitive commercial interests, but it is essential that discussions on a uniform approach to timelines and various issues, like training and marketing have begun.”
Warner says the industry wants to communicate with all stakeholders in the lead-up to the digital switch-on date, with manufacturers and retailers being essential for a successful start. An important issue discussed at the meeting was the tracking of receiver sales to provide critical feedback to all those involved in the launch of digital radio.
“This is essentially the launch of a new technology so there is lots to be discussed both now and in coming months – training for retailers is vital and we are well underway in developing training modules and content for retailers’ own training programs. Equally how everyone fits in the overall launch of the technology and ensuring we all work together is crucial,” says Warner.