Radiocentre reveals first speakers for Tuning In North

Radiocentre has announced the first speakers for Tuning In North, the next of its spring events exploring radio and audio and their power to amplify advertising. The morning conference will take place at Manchester’s Stoller Hall on Wednesday 22nd April, bringing together brands, broadcasters, and thought leaders to hear the latest audio insights and innovations.

Radiocentre’s CEO Matt Payton will open, setting the scene with a market overview at a time of strength for UK commercial radio, underlined by record advertising revenues in 2025.

A session celebrating the power of long-term audio partnerships will see Liverpool-based retailer B&M’s Head of Marketing Shelley Robinson and Brand and Partnerships Director at Bauer Media’s charity Cash for Kids, Emma Brown, take to the stage. They will reflect on 12 years of their ‘Mission Christmas’ toy appeal for disadvantaged children across the UK. Since the partnership began, £100m has been raised, supporting over two million children, demonstrating audio’s roots within communities and how it can be used to connect with audiences across the nation.

Louise Twycross-Lewis, Managing Partner and Head of Insight at PHD, and Sophia Field, Insight Director at PHD, will present findings from their latest Culture Currents study ‘Anticipation: Do good things come to those who wait?’. They’ll be unpacking the drivers of anticipation, its power on consumer behaviour and how brands can leverage anticipation to drive disproportionate growth. They’ll bring this to life for audio advertisers with case studies highlighting audio’s strengths in driving anticipation.

Looking at innovation in the industry, Charlie Brookes, Director of Digital at Bauer Media Audio UK, will showcase AudioXi, the platform that unifies digital audio advertising and gives brands access to millions of listeners across radio, podcasts and streaming. He will explore the journey behind its creation, what it means for advertisers in the North and how it’s shaping an exciting future for digital audio.

Radiocentre’s CEO Matt Payton said:

“Audio continues to offer huge potential for advertisers. From the latest research to inspiring case studies, Tuning In North will showcase how the medium can amplify advertising and drive results for brands everywhere. We’re looking forward to bringing these brilliant speakers together and welcoming the region’s vibrant media and marketing community”

Tuning In North will take place on the morning of Wednesday 22 April. Tickets are free to brands, agencies and Radiocentre members based in the area but are limited. Request a place here.