New York - Feb 15, 2013 - Radio ended 2012 on a high note with 4Q2012 revenue up 4 percent over 2011 comps, to $4.349 billion. This was the highest growth recorded over the past eight quarters and since the strong rebound gains registered throughout 2010. Full-year spending was up for the third consecutive year and totaled $16.482B (+1 percent). The Radio Advertising Bureau credits the resurgent success of the auto industry and the presidential election as the main impetus for the positive performance.

The revenue data does not include network radio data. According to Miller Kaplan and Arase, a voluntary cooperative representing a minimum of 90 percent of total market revenues must be reported. Such data was not submitted for 2012.

Categories posting the biggest gains in 4Q2012, excluding political advertising:
■ Professional Services: +17 percent
■ Communications: +15 percent
■ Financial Services: +15 percent
■ Home Furnishings/Floor Coverings: +14 percent
■ Concerts/Theater/Movies: + 9 percent

The leading gainers for the full year included:
■ Home Furnishings/Floor Coverings: + 9 percent
■ Auto Dealers/Dealer Groups/Manufacturers: + 8 percent
■ Health Care: + 7 percent

Spot radio, digital and off-air revenues are based on a pool of more than 100 markets as reported by the accounting firm of Miller, Kaplan, Arase and extrapolated to the entire U.S. Digital revenue is comprised from activity generated by websites, Internet/web streaming and HD Radio including HD2 and HD3 stations. Network revenue includes the top five radio network companies. Revenue data has been randomly verified since 2002. 
The lineup of markets/stations/networks may vary from year to year. Percent change is calculated on revenue adjusted to current year reporting.

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