Rajar’s data for the third quarter of 2022 showed a 1.4 million increase in listeners, meaning commercial radio share was over 50% for the first time to 50.9%.

This was the second quarter in a row where commercial radio’s share of listening surpassed that of the BBC.
Total online radio listening is now at 24%, up from 18% in the same quarter in 2021, said Rajar.

Rajar added that the growth in online listening, which includes smart speakers, is being driven particularly by commercial radio listeners with its share of online listening now at 27%.

Total radio digital listening including DAB services remains at 66% overall, with no change from the third quarter of 2021.

Matt Payton, chief executive at Radiocentre, said: “The fact that record audiences are tuning in to commercial radio in record numbers is great news for advertisers.

“The data demonstrates radio’s enduring popularity with the great British public, whether they’re listening on a radio set, in the car or on a smart speaker.

“It is also a reflection of the hard work and investment of radio stations in providing greater choice and quality for listeners, offering a valuable mix of entertainment, music, news, information and companionship.”