Bay Broadcasting, owners of Ireland’s leading independent radio stations, including Radio Nova, Ireland’s Classic Hits Radio and Sunshine 106.8, has announced its acquisition of Galway Bay FM.
The move marks a significant expansion of Bay Broadcasting’s footprint across Ireland and reaffirms its commitment to its radio investments in Ireland.
Galway Bay FM is the licensed broadcaster for Galway City & County, with a market share of 34%.
The station has a staff count of 25 at it’s headquarters at Sandy Road in the city.
The purchase is subject to CCPC (Competition and Consumer Protection Commission) and also subject to Ministerial approval.
In a statement, Kevin Branigan, Director of Bay Broadcasting, said, “Galway Bay FM stands out as one of Ireland’s most respected local stations, with a loyal audience and a strong local identity.
“It’s one of the most enduring local radio stations in the country and its track record speaks for itself.
“We look forward to working with the excellent team in Galway Bay FM and to continuing the station’s proud position as the leading radio service in Galway”.
Speaking on behalf of the departing shareholders of Galway Bay FM, Peter Allen, Chairman said, “There were several interested parties, but Bay Broadcasting was the clear choice.
“Their respect for local radio, strong track record, and Irish ownership aligned with everything we’ve worked to build over decades really stood out.
“The shareholders – many of whom are families with generations of involvement – wanted to ensure that the station's future remained rooted in Galway.
“We’re proud of what we’ve achieved and confident that Galway Bay FM will be in excellent hands.”
Galway Bay FM launched in 1989 under the name Radio West, rebranding in 1993.
The Connacht Tribune Ltd, which owned a 27% stake, became sole owners in 2006.
A family-run business deeply embedded in the west of Ireland, the Tribune Group developed Galway Bay FM into a trusted voice for Galway city and county, serving a licensed audience aged 27–60.
Bay Broadcasting is a privately-owned Irish media company co-founded by Mike Ormonde and Kevin Branigan.
With the addition of Galway Bay FM, Bay Broadcasting will become the second largest radio group in Ireland - and the only Irish-owned radio group - now larger than Onic (formerly Wireless), operators of FM104/Q102 in Dublin, 96FM/103FM in Cork, Live 95 In Limerick and LMFM in Louth/Meath.
Bay Broadcasting currently employs a team of 60 at its base in the Dublin Docklands.
The acquisition has already been approved by Coimisiún na Meán.
