The FM frequencies in Switzerland will be switched off by the end of 2024 at the latest. In order to prepare the population for the switch to digital radio reception, the OFCOM has launched a new DAB+ information campaign.
DAB+ is already the most widely used transmission channel for radio programme services in Switzerland. Only around 15 percent of people still listen to radio exclusively via FM. In order to encourage these listeners to switch to digital reception at home and in their cars, a multi-year information campaign was launched on 4 May 2020. It is intended to support the audience with information and assistance during the upcoming FM phase-out. The campaign will include TV and radio spots, social media activities, billboard advertising, measures for equipment dealers and car dealerships, plus a helpdesk to advise the public. The campaign will run until the final FM switch-off.
The Zurich agency Scholz & Friends was commissioned to carry out the campaign following a public invitation to tender. The costs of around CHF five million for the entire duration will be covered from the proceeds of the radio and television reception fee. The campaign will also benefit from free adver-tising time on SSR SRG television and private radio stations worth several million CHF.
The FM transmitters will be switched off by the end of 2024 at the latest. The SSR SRG and the pri-vate radio stations are jointly considering an earlier FM switch-off. A staggered phase-out from mid-2022 (SSR SRG stations) and early 2023 (private radio stations) is under discussion.
Last modification 04.05.2020
