The Radio Academy will change its name to The Audio Academy from January next year, reflecting the wider scope of today’s audio industry while continuing to support UK radio.
Announced at The Radio Academy Festival 2025 yesterday by Chair Helen Thomas, she explained that fewer than 40% of members now describe themselves as working solely in radio, with many also engaged in podcasting, streaming, and other forms of audio.
Helen told delegates: “While we are proud of our history and passionate about our past, we want to reflect the reality of today’s industry. From January next year we will become The Audio Academy.”
Founded in 1983, the charity has long been known for supporting and promoting talent across the UK radio sector. Its programme of events includes the Audio & Radio Industry Awards (ARIAS), which introduced new categories last year such as Audio Brand of the Year, won by Gary Lineker’s production company, Goalhanger.
The rebrand follows a trend dating back to 2016 when the ARIAS themselves opened up to non-radio submissions. The Academy says the move is designed to bring together people from across the audio landscape, champion excellence in all formats, and widen representation.
The UK radio industry remains robust, with 86% of adults listening weekly, while podcast listening continues to grow.
Edison research shows more than half of UK adults listened to a podcast in the past month. The Audio Academy says it wants to ensure the organisation remains relevant to this expanding audience and inclusive of all parts of the sector.
