RAJAR Q1 2025 Results Are In 

What the Latest Listening Trends Mean for Brands

Record highs for online and smart speaker listening, a growing commercial share, and strong trust in radio – here's what stood out to Forever Audio this quarter.

Radio Listening Is Changing 

The Q1 2025 RAJAR results show just how much the UK’s relationship with audio continues to evolve. More of us are tuning in through connected devices than ever before. 

Online radio listening has hit a record high of 28.5%, and smart speaker listening has grown to 17.6% – up from 16.6% this time last year. Whether it’s asking Alexa to play your favourite breakfast show or catching up on your go to show via your phone or laptop, listeners are making the most of flexible, on the go options.

It’s also worth noting that 73.3% of all radio listening is now digital, with 42.1% through DAB and 28.5% via online streaming, both far surpassing analogue’s 26.7% share. That shift shows just how well radio is adapting as part of our increasingly digital day to day lives.

Commercial Radio Is on the Rise

It’s also been a strong quarter for commercial radio. The latest figures show it now holds 54.9% of audience share, up from 54.2% in Q1 last year. Meanwhile, the BBC’s share has dipped slightly to 43%. 

That widening gap signals a growing appetite for the diverse mix of content, voices and formats that commercial radio has to offer and it means even more opportunities for brands to connect with engaged audiences.

Audio Remains One of the UK’s Most Trusted Channels

One trend that stood out this quarter is the rise in national speech radio listening, particularly in the context of ongoing political change. It’s a clear reminder that people turn to audio for more than just entertainment. They’re looking for trusted voices, clear information and a sense of connection.

And in terms of brand loyalty? Heart now holds the title as the UK’s biggest radio brand, showing that familiar names and consistent storytelling still make a big impact.

So, What Does This Mean for Advertisers?

Audio remains one of the most powerful ways to reach people, and it’s getting smarter.

The rise in digital and smart speaker listening means your message can be heard in more places, at more moments throughout the day. But the content and context matters too. Listeners are loyal to stations and formats they trust, so there’s huge potential for brands that sound relevant.

At Forever Audio, we help brands tap into the full potential of radio and digital audio. Whether you're planning your next radio campaign or exploring dynamic digital audio, we can help shape an approach that’s right for your audience.

Want to Talk Audio Strategy?

We’d love to chat. If the latest RAJAR results have sparked ideas, or even questions about your brand’s next move in audio, we’re all ears.