Entercom Communications takes on new name

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Entercom Communications Corp. this week changed its brand name to Audacy.

The company — which operates seven radio stations in the Upstate — said the name change was needed to reflect its evolution into a multi-platform audio content and entertainment organization with, in addition to its radio broadcast group, a strong position in every segment of the growing audio market — including broadcasting, podcasting, digital, network, live experiences, music, sports and news.

Philadelphia-based Audacy is also the No. 1 creator of original, premium audio content, according to a news release.

“We have transformed into a fundamentally different and dramatically enhanced organization and so it is time to embrace a new name and brand identity which better reflects who we have become and our vision for the future,” David Field, chairman, president and CEO, said in a news release. “‘Audacy’ captures our dynamic creativity, outstanding content and innovative spirit as we aspire to build the country’s best audio content and entertainment platform.”

The company’s evolution has been fueled by a number of recent moves, including, acquiring CBS Radio, launching Radio.com (which now defaults to the Audacy home page), buying Cadence13 and Pineapple Street Studios, and becoming the primary companion podcast partner of brands including HBO, Netflix, Nike and others. The company also established strategic partnerships with Apple, Google, Amazon, Twitch and others to enable its listeners to connect with Audacy audio content, the release said. Audacy acquired Podcorn, a podcast influencer marketplace that pairs brands and podcast creators.

Audacy’s Upstate stations include the No. 1 rated 106.3 WORD, which dominates the 6 a.m. to noon time slot. Other stations are 93.3 The Planet, Classic Rock 101.1, Magic 98.9, B93.7, The Block 96.3 and ESPN Upstate.

“We also have an expanding portfolio of podcasts including Battleground America by Tara Servatius, the morning host for 106.3 WORD, and After Hours with the Rise Guy​s hosted by WTPT's like-named morning show,” said Steve Sinicropi, Audacy senior vice president based in Greenville. “Interest in audio is accelerating with consumers and advertisers, and the rebrand to Audacy is part of our evolution to better define our leadership position in creating and delivering the best live, local, premium audio content.”

Audacy this week made a number of additional content and product announcements, including a podcast partnership with singer Demi Lovato and original podcasts with retired NFL quarterback and analyst Boomer Esiason.

“This moment is not just a change of sign, but a sign of change. Our new brand encapsulates who we’ve become in audio and will guide our forward aspirations,” Paul Suchman, chief marketing officer, said in the release. “We are bringing it to life across all touchpoints inside and outside the organization and look forward to delivering on its promise every day.”

The company’s stock market ticker symbol will change from ETM to AUD effective on or about April 9, the release said.