Irish-owned broadcaster expands national footprint
Bay Broadcasting has announced its acquisition of Galway Bay FM, a major move that solidifies its status as the second-largest radio group in Ireland and the country’s leading Irish-owned broadcaster.
The acquisition, subject to regulatory approval from the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) and the Minister for Media, expands Bay Broadcasting’s reach into the west of Ireland and increases its total listenership to 810,000—surpassing rival Onic (formerly Wireless), which has 796,000 listeners.
Galway Bay FM, the licensed local radio station for Galway City and County, holds a 34% market share and employs 25 staff at its Sandy Road headquarters in Galway. The station has long been regarded as a cornerstone of the local media landscape since its launch in 1989 as Radio West, rebranding to its current name in 1993. Most recently owned entirely by the Connacht Tribune Group, Galway Bay FM has built a loyal audience with strong ties to the community.
“Galway Bay FM stands out as one of Ireland’s most respected local stations, with a loyal audience and a strong local identity,” said Kevin Branigan, Director and Co-founder of Bay Broadcasting. “We look forward to working with the excellent team in Galway and continuing the station’s proud legacy as the leading radio service in the region.”
Outgoing Galway Bay FM Chairman Peter Allen echoed the sentiment. “Bay Broadcasting was the clear choice among several suitors. Their respect for local radio and commitment to Irish ownership aligned with the values we’ve upheld for decades. We’re confident the station’s future remains in good hands.”
Bay Broadcasting, founded in 2008 by Kevin Branigan and Mike Ormonde, operates a portfolio of popular music stations including Radio Nova, Ireland’s Classic Hits Radio, and Sunshine 106.8—all based in Dublin Docklands. The group has grown to employ 60 staff and is known for delivering high-quality programming across the country. Classic Hits Radio is Ireland’s only multicity station, broadcasting to Dublin, Cork, Limerick, and Galway.
Radio Nova leads Dublin’s music radio market with a 9.4% share, closely followed by Sunshine 106.8 at 8.9%. Classic Hits Radio currently reaches 382,000 listeners.
The addition of Galway Bay FM marks a significant milestone for Bay Broadcasting, not only expanding its regional reach but also reinforcing its commitment to Irish-owned and independent radio. The acquisition has already been approved by Coimisiún na Meán, the national broadcasting regulator.
Once finalized, the acquisition positions Bay Broadcasting ahead of Onic Wireless Group, which owns stations including Dublin’s FM104 and Q102, Cork’s 96FM/103FM, Limerick’s Live 95, and LMFM in the northeast.
