The French association Ensemble pour le DAB+ has entered into a strategic partnership with the leading electronics retailer, the Fnac-Darty group. The joint initiative is aimed at increasing awareness of the DAB+ standard and supporting the sale of compatible radio receivers in approximately 300 brick-and-mortar stores and on the e-shops of both chains.
The campaign, running from mid-May until the end of the month, offers consumers discounts on digital radios of up to 20%. According to representatives of the association, this is historically the first event of such a scale in the digital radio broadcasting sector in France. Sales support also includes the distribution of informational materials explaining the advantages and functioning of DAB+ technology.
“Every day, we work to offer our listeners the best. And the best for their listening is DAB+. This first partnership with a major player in distribution is a big step towards the mass adoption of this technology,” said Charles-Emmanuel Bon, President of the Ensemble pour le DAB+ association.
Commercial activity in the field is complemented by an extensive campaign directly on the air of member radio stations. They include spots and editorial contributions in their programming emphasizing the benefits of digital broadcasting, such as higher sound quality and a wider selection of stations without the need for an internet connection.
This promotional wave comes at a time when France is accelerating the ether digitization process. Currently, DAB+ signal covers 70% of the French population. The established network development schedule anticipates that by the end of 2026, digital radio availability will increase to 80% of residents.