Radio’s next chapter is multimedia and meaningful
Guest Column: Abe Thomas, CEO, BIG FM, writes on how the radio industry has grown into a dynamic, integrated multimedia ecosystem
by
Published: Jun 5, 2025 11:26 AM | 3 min read
The most successful media brands aren't defined just by their presence—they're distinguished by purpose. With the changing consumption patterns by viewers, what matters is creating rich, multi-dimensional experiences that resonate deeply, evolve meaningfully and honour the legacy that built trust. In the Radio industry, what began as a popular audio brand has grown into a dynamic, integrated multimedia ecosystem—one that connects with millions through the power of sound, the magic of storytelling and the connection of lived experience.
The audience has shifted from passive listeners to active participants. They no longer consume content in silos. They expect it to move with them, across platforms, with moments and moods. Our response has been to design an experience that mirrors this shift: digital-first, locally rooted, video-enabled and always-on. Even as formats evolve, radio’s core promise of authenticity and companionship remains unmatched. It is this deep emotional trust that continues to fuel our evolution. What makes radio even more powerful is its seamless adaptability—it can be effortlessly integrated into any space, anytime, anywhere.
Our latest initiative, biglive.com, is more than a platform; it’s a belief system that brings the storytelling power of radio into a richer, more purposeful space. Every piece of content, from finance to lifestyle, is crafted with intent and shaped by hyperlocal relevance. This approach turns campaigns into conversations and builds real community connections, especially for retail brands. biglive.com also reframes the everyday, offering practical stories and ideas that enrich daily life. It’s not just content; it’s fuel for ambition, designed to inspire action and add real value to people’s lives. BIG Live – Fuel Your Life is more than a line—it’s the promise we deliver through every story we tell.
Having said that, traditional radio continues to hold its ground while evolving with the times. As per the FICCI-EY 2025 report, the industry has shown steady momentum, with total revenues rising from INR 21 billion in 2021 to INR 25 billion in 2024. Notably, nearly 20% of this now comes from non-traditional avenues like branded content and events—proof that the medium is expanding beyond airwaves into high-value, multi-platform experiences
This integrated approach is reflected in how original content IPs are being designed to move across platforms and formats. Properties like Digital Jockey, BIG Golden Voice, Super Duper Dhamaka, and BIG Dhun were born on FM, scaled digitally, and activated on-ground—offering brands rich, layered engagement across every consumer touchpoint.
In this new era, we don't follow trends — we set them. Rooted in radio, built for digital, and driven by purpose.
Disclaimer: The views expressed here are solely those of the author and do not in any way represent the views of exchange4media.com.
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