The Radio Academy, a big part of the UK’s radio scene since 1983, is changing its name to The Audio Academy.
Helen Thomas, the current Chair, shared this at The Radio Academy Festival 2025. This change is a big deal for the group. It shows how much the audio world has changed. The new name is meant to include all the different jobs and platforms in the industry now.
Radio still holds a strong position, but podcasts and online streaming have also become very successful. A study shows that in the UK, over 86% of adults listen to the radio weekly, while 51% tune into podcasts monthly. This change suggests the group is trying to stay current and be inclusive in today’s media landscape.
For over 40 years, the Radio Academy has supported audio talent in the UK. Their annual events, like the Audio & Radio Industry Awards (ARIAS), recognize the work of audio experts. Last year, the ARIAS added new categories; Gary Lineker’s Goalhanger production company won Audio Brand of the Year, showing the increase in audio storytelling. The change to The Audio Academy shows a forward-thinking approach, ensuring the group stays a main source for the industry’s different voices, whether they make radio shows, create podcasts, or explore innovative formats like those emerging in telegram casinos, where audio-driven experiences are gaining traction as part of the broader digital entertainment landscape.
Based on a survey of industry experts, the rebranding came about because fewer than 40% see their work as only related to radio. This led the charity to choose a name that better shows the various parts of audio creation today. Helen Thomas stressed how crucial it was to leave the group as open as it could be. She said that they value their past but want to include more people from all parts of the growing industry. The Audio Academy hopes to build links between radio, podcasts, and streaming, acting as a common point for experts as they deal with this changing area.
The Audio Academy’s rebranding aligns with current trends in the UK audio market. Radio keeps a strong listener base as a favored form of communication. Meanwhile, podcasts see increased adoption, as over half of British citizens now listen monthly; this suggests greater acceptance. This shift influences both listening habits and content production, wherein creators find modes to engage listeners using streaming platforms and specific online locales like casinos, where audio has the capacity to improve user experience. This rebranding allows the Audio Academy to back these fresh ideas while still focusing on building talent and community.
The group will still focus on celebrating great work. The ARIAS will still recognize great achievements and people, from new podcasts to classic radio shows. By growing its reach, The Audio Academy makes sure it stands for all types of audio creators, even those who are trying new things in digital formats. The rebranding also starts a wider chat about what is next for audio, asking how the industry can keep doing well as technology changes quickly.
As The Audio Academy starts this new phase, it brings with it a history of great work while accepting the challenges of a varied audio scene. The charity’s focus on being inclusive and creative puts it in a position to guide the next group of audio experts. Whether it is through radio, podcasts, or new platforms. The Audio Academy is ready to shape what is next for audio in the UK, building a community that values creativity and links across all forms of sound.