Observed Signal · Aug 1, 2026 · Policy Update · Source: persoenlich.com News · Impact: 2/5 · Sentiment: Neutral
Broadcasting / Radio Market: SRG to Resume FM Broadcasting This Autumn
Switzerland’s public broadcaster SRG plans to restart analogue FM (UKW) radio transmissions in autumn 2026 after political pressure and a December parliamentary motion. FM technical tests have been running since 20 July 2026, with Swisscom Broadcast AG conducting function checks at multiple sites on SRG’s behalf. The Federal Office of Communications (Bakom) is expected to issue the required UKW concession in August 2026. SRG had switched distribution to DAB+ and shut down UKW in January, a move linked to about a 6% market-share loss in the first half of 2025. SRG says tests continue, older equipment remains in use and contractual details with Swisscom are still being clarified. Initial operating costs are estimated at about CHF 6.6 million per year, with potential expansion costs up to CHF 15 million.
National public broadcaster SRG returning to FM affects broadcast inventory, operating costs, technical vendor contracts (Swisscom), and regulatory concessions domestically; limited global impact on AdTech/MarTech.
Key Takeaways & Evidence Grounding
- SRG plans to resume analogue FM (UKW) broadcasts in autumn 2026, planning three stations each in German, French and Italian.
- FM technical tests have been taking place since 20 July 2026, conducted by Swisscom Broadcast AG at multiple Swiss sites.
- The Federal Office of Communications (Bakom) is expected to grant SRG a UKW broadcasting concession in August 2026.
- SRG discontinued UKW in January after switching to DAB+; stations lost about 6% market share in H1 2025, and a December parliamentary motion urged continued UKW availability to avoid listeners switching to foreign FM.
- Estimated operating costs: ~CHF 6.6 million per year initially; further expansion could cost up to CHF 15 million per year.
Connected Companies & Entities
5 Entities mappedSwisscom
Swiss telecom incumbent selling bundled connectivity and entertainment subscriptions.
“Contractual questions with Swisscom still need to be clarified....”
persoenlich.com
Swiss trade publisher for communications and marketing professionals.
Keystone-SDA
Swiss multimedia news agency serving media and corporate subscribers.
Blick
Swiss digital news publisher with advertising and premium subscriptions.
“The comeback is already underway behind the scenes, writes SonntagsBlick....”
SRG SSR
Swiss public broadcaster operating multilingual TV, radio and digital media.
“SRG radio stations should soon be audible again on FM; SRG confirms Swisscom Broadcast AG is conducting technical tests on its behalf....”
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