After the debacle of GCap “pulling out” of DAB there has been lots of great news coming from the UK in the past few weeks.

The biggest news concerns Planet Rock, one of the most successful stations on DAB, and a surprise casualty of GCap’s corporate survival. Since GCap pulled the plug, Queen guitarist Brian May tried to purchase the station but was beaten to it by entrepreneur Malcolm Bluemel. Nothing like a little healthy competition in a sale! Bottom line is Planet Rock lives on with the backing of a private entity who will give it the attention it deserves to grow rather than it being just another “add-on” in a huge corporation. More importantly, to the best of my knowledge, the station is the first DAB exclusive brand to change hands proving there is worth in these new digital times. An important point for DAB broadcasters and investors.

The next piece of good news is Bauer have decided to put their Q Radio station onto DAB in London. This will be the first DAB outlet for the station which broadcasts on cable, satellite and Freeview. Bauer are investing in Q by adding live dj’s,  regular features and a big launch headlined by R.E.M.  Why such investment?  Perhaps it’s due to success at another Bauer station Heat where sponsorships are selling nicely and the station is making money.

Like busses, good news comes in three’s! The third piece of good news is the launch of a brand new digital station - N.M.E Radio. It will be launched by Ricky Gervais and crew on June 24th. Initially on cable, satellite and online, what’s the bet they’ll also be on DAB soon ?

After a bad start to the year these big sales, extra investments and new entrants are showing DAB to be the phoenix rising from the ashes. Best yet, things are only beginning to pick up as we anticipate what Channel 4 radio will offer with their DAB launch later in the year.

PS - Did I mention Virgin Radio was sold to Times Group of India and Absolute Radio for €67m ?!