Eric Rhoads' Blog
Fisher Communications Sees Sharp Radio Decline
November 5, 2009: Fisher Communications' net revenues were down 18 percent in the third quarter, to $34.5 million from $42.3 million. Radio revenues were down 49 percent, to $6 million from $11.7 million, most of that due to the end of the contract for the Seattle Mariners; without that, radio revenues would have been down 21 percent.
Fisher's TV revenues were down 8 percent in the third quarter, to $25.1 million from $27.3 million, while revenue from the Fisher Plaza building was $3.5 million, up 5 percent.
"Despite the unprecedented challenges facing our advertising partners and the direct effect it is having on our near-term performance, we remain confident in our business," Fisher President/CEO Colleen Brown said. "We expect that the proactive steps we are taking to improve our operational and financial performance will allow Fisher to emerge a stronger media company once the economic recovery takes hold."
Brown said new technologies will be key to Fisher's success, citing a broadcast-to-broadband initiative to deliver content through new channels. She continued, "The launch of our hyperlocal websites enables users to access community news and information in an easy-to-use fashion, as well as provides local advertisers with a cost-effective way to reach their target audience. While this initiative is still in its infancy, we anticipate that it will play an important role in the company's future."
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(11/13/2009 7:28:08 AM) Isn't the long term too late? I mean seriously? I have been in radio for years and am frankly, ashamed at the greed, egos and corporate tactics forcing BS down the throats of the local business owner. You know what? McDonald's, Coke, Pepsi, Auto Dealers - ALL got better rates than the local guy - the one that I got paid on THE MOST. The one I liked THE MOST. The one I could impact THE MOST. Radio ignored these guys in the last 10 years. Then we need them all the sudden? Why would they come to radio's rescue after all the BS and grief we gave them? How about this scenario: Buy our $10,000 promotion that WE NEED you to buy for US so WE can bring in this ARTIST WE like. Oh, and we'll say presented by you - 2x in our 60-90 second promo - and you get NO COMMERCIALS CUSTOM for your business in this package - this is on TOP of what you already have booked - if you want more you have to place more.... Oh, you want tickets for your family and employees? Well, there are only 6 in the package - you will have to pay for the overage - $20 a ticket. Is it sold out...? No, but you still need to pay. No, you can't meet the artist either - I know your kids want to and it would most likely mean that they get a really cool experience and you will probably resign immediately when you do meet them IF you do...but we can't make that happen for you! But I get to meet them though. Want me to get something signed...hopefully I can... I know you gave us 10k to bring them in town but you know how these guys are! Seriously - how many times has THAT scenario played out the past ten years? I'm just sayin'! Good luck radio! I am glad I am out. Sad, but glad. |
| - Steve |
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(11/7/2009 7:05:37 AM) Going hyperlocal can save some revenue. nuAlerts is connecting local residents who want to be the first to know directly with important community leaders who are "in the know" via social networks and more! Several Mayors and leading organizations are already using nuAlerts and anyone can start posting their important information at www.nualerts.com |
| - dd202 |
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(11/6/2009 9:42:21 AM) Time for Fisher and other broadcasters to "prime the pump" as Zig Ziglar would say...You have to put something in before you get something out. Fisher and their brethren need to hire more sellers...get them on the street ASKING businesses to buy something. Hire 'em, Train 'em, Mentor 'em, Coach 'em. You don't turn that "un-guided missile into a advertising professional in 90-days. Now more than ever is when ownership/management needs to do what's right, for the long-term. Forget about next month, it's already too late! Get more troops on the ground...now! |
| - David Aamodt |
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