Tapt Media has officially launched as a new independent audio business following the Laundy Family Office’s acquisition of key talk radio assets from Nine Entertainment Co.
The new entity includes stations 2GB in Sydney, 3AW in Melbourne, 4BC in Brisbane and 6PR in Perth.
Arthur Laundy said the acquisition aligns with the group’s existing focus on local communities.
“There is a natural synergy between the live, local pulse of 2GB, 3AW, 4BC, and 6PR and the communal spirit of Australian hospitality,” he said.
“Our venues have always been the heartbeat of their neighbourhoods – a place where Aussies come together to talk about the news, cheer on their team, and debate the issues of the day. Talk radio is the natural extension of that local conversation; it is the voice of the community, just as our venues are a second home.”
“We are confident that our ownership provides the stability, excitement and shared long-term vision to grow this business, and couldn’t be more excited to see these iconic stations continue to thrive.”
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Strategy to expand distribution and commercial operations
Incoming Tapt Media CEO Tom Malone said the company would focus on its distribution and commercial strategy.
“What you’ll see in the coming months is a transformation of our distribution and commercial strategy to realise the full potential of the incredible content our teams create around the clock,” he said.
“Our ambition is to evolve into a digital media business – with live radio at our core, complemented by short and long form audio and video, distributed where and how people want to consume.”
Tom Malone
Rebrand and positioning
Malone said the rebrand reflects the company’s focus.
“We have a century of heritage behind these microphones, and our future potential is only limited by our imagination. We’ve rebranded as Tapt because we are exactly that – tapped into the news, opinions and issues of the cities we serve.
“Our stations are more ubiquitous and more relevant today than they’ve ever been. With the Laundy family, we have backers who are investing over the long term. We’re tapped in, and we’re just getting started.”
Tapt Media said its stations lead in live audio streaming nationally and hold leading positions in ratings across Australia’s two largest markets.
The business will operate across radio, streaming and podcasts.