Classic FM Set To Extend Brand With TV Launch

Classic FM is reportedly planning to launch a television station to compliment its record-label, magazine and credit card brands.

According to a report in today’s Times, the launch of the TV channel, which is understood to be an advertising funded free-to air venture, could come as early as next year. It is thought that both creative and business plans have been drawn up and that the venture is ready to go.

A spokesperson for Classic FM confirmed that the launch of a television station is on the cards, but insisted the company has no “definite plans” to proceed with the initiative.

GWR-owned Classic FM, which celebrates its tenth anniversary later this week, has seen its popularity increase steadily in recent years. RAJAR data for the second quarter of 2002 shows that the station has seen its weekly reach increase by 5.6% year on year to 6,683,000, up from 6,326,000 in the same period the previous year.

Last week Classic FM signed a sponsorship deal with Bank of Scotland Corporate Banking worth £250,000. The deal, which was negotiated through GWR’s sales house Opus, will see the bank become the official sponsor of the station’s weeknight news programme, Classic Newsnight, for the next six-months (see Opus Secures £250,000 Sponsorship Of Classic FM).

Classic FM: 020 7343 9000 www.classicfm.com

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