WEALTH November 5, 2026 0 Comments

WLR’s Audience Boom: What This Record-Breaking Surge Means for Your Market Moves

Ever wonder what it takes for a local radio station to not just survive, but absolutely dominate its market? Well, Waterford’s own WLR just dropped a jaw-dropping stat: 70,000 folks tuning in weekly and 50,000 daily listeners. That’s no small feat in today’s digital chaos where everyone’s screaming for attention. According to the latest Ipsos JNLR survey—from October 2025 to September 2026—WLR’s average quarter-hour audience grew by 2,000 year-on-year, hitting a record-breaking 14,000. And get this—their market share climbed to a hefty 38.4%, proving that even in a world swamped with options, solid local news, sport, and entertainment still reign supreme. It’s a testament to a sharp strategy and relentless hustle, broadcast right across Waterford City and County. If you think niche content can’t cut it, think again. This is a masterclass in capturing and keeping your audience’s ear, making WLR not just a station, but a local powerhouse. Ready to dive deeper? LEARN MORE

Waterford radio station WLR has recorded its highest-ever quarter-hour listenership, with 70,000 people now tuning in every week and 50,000 listening daily.

The latest Ipsos JNLR survey, covering the period from October 2025 to September 2026, found that WLR’s average quarter-hour audience increased by 2,000 year-on-year to a record 14,000.

The station’s market share has also risen to 38.4%, underlining its position as a leading source of local news, sport and entertainment in Waterford.

The latest figures represent a strong performance for the station, which broadcasts across Waterford City and County and provides coverage of local news, community events and sporting occasions, alongside its daily entertainment programming.

Michael Byrne, CEO of WLR, said he was proud of the station’s team following the latest results.

“These are fantastic results for WLR, and I’m incredibly proud of our entire team, whose hard work and commitment have helped us achieve record quarter-hour listening figures and an increased market share of 38.4%,” he said.

“I want to sincerely thank our 50,000 daily listeners and 70,000 weekly listeners for their continued loyalty and support, because everything we do at WLR is about delivering the very best local radio service for the people of Waterford.”

The results come ahead of a busy period for the station, which is preparing extensive coverage of Waterford FC‘s appearance in the Club Orange FAI Cup Final on Sunday, November 8.

WLR will broadcast live from Dublin, providing pre-match coverage and live commentary of the final, alongside its regular sporting programming.

The station is also preparing a series of Christmas broadcasts, events and fundraising initiatives involving local businesses and community organisations across Waterford.

The latest JNLR figures provide a boost for WLR as it continues to invest in local journalism, live sport and entertainment.

Michael Byrne, CEO, WLR. (Pic: Patrick Browne)

According to the survey, the station’s average quarter-hour audience has grown by 2,000 over the past year, while its market share has increased to 38.4%.

The JNLR survey is the principal measurement of radio listenership in Ireland, with the latest results reflecting audience habits over the 12 months to September 2026.