Undoubtedly, Christmas is one of the most beloved holidays and hundreds of listeners tune in to radio stations to listen to their favourite Christmas hits. However, there are some radio stations that, up until recent years, did not “dare” to switch their playlists to Christmas music exclusively. This is why Alexis Karakatsanis, Audiomax SA, and Andy Everett, Global, considered ways that radio stations can make the most out of the festive season.
At first, Alexis presented a few examples from the Greek radio industry that showcased how certain radio stations were truly elevated when they switched to completely Christmas music during this time. The key is for radio stations to utterly immerse in the festive spirit, considering how the listeners strive for this type of music, in order to get into the Christmas mood themselves.
Hence, reach is currency in this day and age, and it is of great importance for radio stations to make this switch under the radar of their competitors, as long as this change is organic and aligned with the station’s identity. One important piece of advice that was given by Alexis is that “every element must be Christmas-oriented”, from the logo to the fillers.
One prime example is the UK radio station Heart, as it was presented by Andy Everett. Heart encompasses the true Christmas spirit, especially as the beginning of the holiday season for UK listeners is signified by the first Christmas song that plays on the radio.
Both Alexis and Andy encouraged radio stations to not be afraid of switching to Christmas music completely, as it can leverage them and attract multiple listeners who wish to dive into the holiday spirit in every way that they can, and music can be a strong medium for that.
image © Afroditi Zaggana
