Retail radio station operator AirServ has successfully raised €20,000 through crowd lending platform Linked Finance to expand its instore radio network.
Currently delivering tailored point-of-purchase radio across 130 retail locations in Ireland, including Jervis Shopping Centre, Galway Shopping Centre and Topaz service stations, Airserv works closely with stores to create music programmes that offer maximum engagement with shoppers. It follows a ‘no clutter’ policy or running just one commercial per ad break, and all songs are selected based on customer demographics, time of day and seasonality.
Since its establishement in 2012, Airserv has grown to have a weekly combined audience of 2.25 million nationwide. A key factor in its success is its ability to reach consumers close to the point of purchase when they are actively engaged in shopping.
According to Airserv’s Managing Director Enda Murphy, the company is now ready to grow at a more ambitious rate and capitalise on the growing opportunities in the market. It is currently in negotiations with additional shopping centres and grocery retailers, as well as in talks with retail locations in the UK.
“We’ve gone from strength to strength since launching back in 2012, building up an extensive network of bespoke radio stations,” Murphy said.
“Key to our success has been playing great original artist music and providing retailers with tailored programming that’s much more in tune their customer base. This is great for retailers and helps advertisers reach consumers more effectively while they’re in active shopping mode.”
Peter O’Mahony, CEO of Linked Finance commented, “AirServ is a great example of how a company with a strong business model backed up by a team of hard-working and passionate professionals can achieve tremendous results. This type of drive and commitment shown by SMEs across the country is the very backbone of our economy.”
He added that with SME’s in Ireland now in growth mode, “A key part of that recovery is access to reliable credit on good terms and available quickly. While banks are the traditional source of funds, businesses need a quicker turnaround and easier process than what the banks usually offer.
“Crowd lending bridges that gap and brings the added advantage of creating a community of active investors in Ireland’s recovery.”
© 2015 - Checkout Magazine by Jenny Whelan.
