HD Digital Radio in the US has received a big promotional boost with the announcement that Wal-Mart Stores, Inc, the world’s largest retailer, is to begin selling HD digital radio receivers in 1,989 Wal-Mart stores in 85 markets. The move will be heavily promoted in a major advertising campaign on HD Digital Radio Alliance-member radio stations. Wal-Mart has created a variety of programs and educational tools around HD Radio, leveraging the company’s multiple points of interaction with consumers.
The move by Wal-Mart will be supported by new radio spots that represent the next phase of the Alliance’s $250 million marketing campaign announced in December.
“Wal-Mart brings HD Radio to an incredible new level of reach and power and we are very grateful for their leadership,” said Peter Ferrara, president and CEO of the HD Digital Radio Alliance. “This underscores that HD Radio is now within easy reach of millions of consumers nationwide and Wal-Mart is an ideal partner to make that possible.”
Over 1,100 radio stations currently broadcast in HD, with over 600 offering HD2 multicasts featuring a wide variety of new formats and content. HD Radio offers crystal clear digital sound and more choices, with no subscription fee.
(Source: HD Digital Radio Alliance/R Netherlands Media Network Weblog)