Radio Advertising in Philadelphia
Although we live in an area with accessible internet on a wide variety of devices, radio is still a highly effective advertising medium. The main reason for that is arguably radio’s unique ability to reach lots of people from roughly the same geographical location. It’s also relatively inexpensive and allows companies to leverage the trust that radio personalities have built with their audiences.
Beasley Media Group started with a single radio station more than six decades ago and has since grown into a multi-platform media company providing marketing and advertising services throughout the country. Although we’ve expanded into digital marketing, event marketing, podcasting, and esports, radio is still the cornerstone of our organization. We currently operate 57 radio stations in large and medium markets across the country, with seven of them right here in Philadelphia.
Why You Should Consider Radio Advertising for Your Business
Radio advertising is promoting a business through audio commercials broadcast on radio stations. Radio advertising can be broadcast in the following ways:
Over the Air via a Traditional Terrestrial Radio Station
Over the Air via a Satellite Radio Station
Online Through a Radio Station's Website or App
Multiple Station Formats for Different Audience Profiles
Radio is effective for companies who wish to advertise their products and services, mainly because of its loyal audiences. However, most radio stations have specific themes, meaning that they only appeal to segments of the population that resonate with those themes. This can limit an organization’s reach unless it finds one or more radio stations that fit your target demographics.
This is where Beasley Media Group’s approach can make a difference. We operate five FM and two AM radio stations in Philadelphia alone, each with different themes and target audiences. This allows companies that partner with us to target their advertising efforts toward the people who are most likely to resonate with their message. Some of our Philadelphia radio stations are:
- WMMR-FM: This rock-themed radio station has been active since 1968 and is one of Philadelphia’s most popular. Its widespread popularity makes it a viable advertising medium for a wide variety of brands.
- WMGK-FM: This is also a rock-themed station but focuses on classic rock. This makes it more likely to appeal to older demographics.
- WBEN-FM: This station broadcasts hits from multiple genres and eras. Its audience demographics are generally as varied as its music.
- WXTU-FM: This is Philadelphia’s main Country music station. Country music is more inclusive than ever, with an evenly spread fanbase.
- WPEN-FM: This sports-themed radio capitalizes on Philadelphia’s strong sports culture. It tends to cater to a predominantly male audience.
Varied Ad Production Capabilities
Radio advertising allows advertisers to be creative in their approach and create various types of content that engage with audiences. Some specific reasons why radio advertising offers a wide variety of ad production capabilities are:
Ads Can Be Done in Multiple Ways
Although radio only uses sound to engage with its audiences, there are still multiple ways to use it. Some of them include:
Voice talent: Radio personalities can become hugely popular with local audiences, meaning that they can lend some of their trustworthiness to the brands they promote. A quality script can tell a compelling story and draw audiences in, making them care about your brand and its products or services.
Sound effects: Radio ads can also catch the listener's attention with short but impactful sound effects. For instance, using the sound of a car engine backfiring can be a great way for a service garage to advertise its vehicle repair and maintenance services.
Music: One of the most effective forms of radio advertising is through catchy and memorable jingles. They tend to stick to the listener's mind, which also makes them likely to remember the brand.
Different Radio Station Themes Can Target Various Demographics
Companies that use radio advertising can segment their audiences based on each station's specific audience demographics. For instance, if you're selling products that mostly cater to men, advertising on the sports-themed WPEN-FM can help you reach those who are most likely to buy your products. You can break this down further by exploring audience demographics for specific radio shows and advertising on those that match your target audience.
Ads Are Cost-Effective and Quick To Produce
Ads that have visual elements, such as TV and online ones, often require complex scenes and graphics that are not only expensive but also take a long time to make. Radio ads, however, can go from an idea to the final product in only a few days. This can help companies adjust their messaging to make it as effective as it can be.
Multiple Sponsorship and Promotional Opportunities
There are other ways to connect with your target audiences via radio. These include:
Sponsoring radio programs
The most effective way to benefit from a radio program's popularity is by sponsoring it. Becoming a sponsor of a specific program can help associate your brand with the respective program's content, making audiences more likely to be interested in what you want to sell.
Sponsoring events
Radio stations often host various events, such as concerts and festivals. Sponsoring these events can enhance brand exposure while also showing your willingness to become a part of the local community.
Organizing contests
Radio stations often have contests and giveaways. Sponsoring these can help promote your brands and your products.
Using radio to drive online traffic
Radio can also be an effective way to get people to visit your website or social media channels. You can use radio advertising to promote specific offers and discounts that audiences can access online.
Promoting honorable causes
Sponsoring charitable causes is a great way to boost your brand while also doing a good thing for the local community. Radio is a great venue for that.
Where Can You Air My Local Radio Ads in Philadelphia?
Our extensive radio network can help you advertise your business to locals or the entire nation. Here are some of the Philadelphia radio stations that could air your next ad campaign:
Playa Philadelphia
Spanish CHR | WMGK-HD3
WJBR
Adult Contemporary | WBEN HD2
WWBD
Talk | 860 AM
WPEN
Sports Talk | 97.5 FM
WBEN
Adult Hits | 95.7 FM
WMMR
Rock | 93.3 FM
WXTU
Country | 92.5 FM
If you need guidance, our Philadelphia team can help you choose the perfect marketing mix and stations for your business.
Talk to us at Beasley Media Group and make full use of radio advertising
Traditional radio is still going strong, and it can be the cornerstone of your brand’s advertising strategy. with over 60 years of experience and 57 radio stations under our wing, Beasley Media Group is uniquely positioned to help you reach Philadelphia audiences via radio. Contact us to hear some sample radio spots and see how they may fit your business.