WEALTH April 17, 2026 0 Comments

Why Audio Is the Untapped Growth Goldmine Every Business Is Overlooking Right Now

Ever wonder why, in this age of endless scrolling and screen fatigue, radio and audio still hold a captivating charm for business growth? Last Friday at the newly minted Glassworks Innovation Centre, business leaders, marketers, and entrepreneurs gathered to crack that very question wide open at the ‘Sounding Out: How to Drive Business Growth’ event. Co-hosted by WLR and Radiocentre Ireland, this gathering wasn’t just another networking opportunity—it was a wake-up call reminding us that amidst the clutter of digital noise, audio isn’t just surviving; it’s thriving as a potent engine driving real, measurable business success. From insightful chats with industry leaders like Stephen Kent of CIE to compelling arguments on audio’s unique ability to foster trust and connection, the event proved that sometimes, the oldest mediums pack the freshest punch. Curious to see how the local Waterford business scene is capitalizing on this audio advantage? Let’s dive in. LEARN MORE

Business leaders, marketers and entrepreneurs gathered at the newly opened Glassworks Innovation Centre on Friday for ‘Sounding Out: How to Drive Business Growth’.

Co-hosted by WLR and Radiocentre Ireland, the event drew a strong local audience and delivered a clear message: radio and audio are not just enduring, they are an effective engine for business growth.

A highlight of the morning was WLR’s Dymphna Nugent‘s interview with Stephen Kent, who explored leadership, brand-building and his new role as CEO of CIE.

Radiocentre Ireland’s Ciarán Cunningham followed with a compelling case for audio’s effectiveness, highlighting its ability to cut through digital clutter and deliver measurable outcomes.

WLR’s Dymphna Nugent with Stephen Kent, CEO of CIE.

“Audio doesn’t interrupt -it connects,” he said. “It builds familiarity and trust over time, and that’s what ultimately drives action for advertisers.”

The conversation then turned local, with a panel of Waterford business leaders, including Jenny Beresford, CEO, Dungarvan and West Waterford Chamber; Mark Bergin, MD, Coffee House Lane; Sinead Corcoran, sales and marketing manager, Tower Hotel; and Chelsey Walsh, digital marketing manager, George Corbett Motors.

Their contributions grounded the discussion in real-world experience, illustrating how radio continues to drive customer engagement and deliver tangible results across sectors.

Michael Byrne, CEO, WLR.

Across the morning, one theme consistently emerged: in an increasingly fragmented media environment, audio offers something distinct-attention, trust and a powerful sense of local connection.

Michael Byrne, CEO of WLR, described the event as a valuable opportunity to connect the local business community with national insights.

“We’re seeing real momentum in how businesses are using radio and audio, and WLR is proud to help turn that into measurable growth.”

The Sounding Out: How to Drive Business Growth event in Waterford.

For Cunningham, the event also reflected a broader national trend.

“What we’re seeing in Waterford is happening across the country,” he said. “When you combine strong local media like WLR with the proven effectiveness of audio, it becomes a very powerful platform for brands.”