The Heart and Mind of a Radio Station: Audience Perceptions of Radio Station Brand Personality

Abstract The focus of this research was to explore consumer brand responses to the brand personality of a South African classical music radio station, Classic 1027. This study investigated how key brand responses are influenced by brand personality. A structured electronic survey was used to collect data from a qualified online panel that reflected the demographic characteristics of typical Classic 1027 listeners. The attitudes and behavioural intentions of listeners were examined, and the findings show positive attitudes and intentions. The “enthusiasm” brand personality dimension was shown to have a significant effect on behavioural responses. This research contributes by measuring brand personality during an actual repositioning campaign, rather than just as an isolated academic study. By considering radio station brand personality from a listener's perspective, it also contributes to theory development and offers some guidelines for media practitioners.