The world of radio ratings is a complex and ever-evolving landscape, and the spring 2026 PPM ratings for Vancouver, Toronto, Montreal, Edmonton, and Calgary offer a fascinating glimpse into the current state of the industry. As the radio industry grapples with financial challenges and the impending shift from diaries to a new methodology, these ratings provide a snapshot of the changing tides. But what do they really tell us, and what insights can we glean from this data? Let's dive in and explore the key findings, along with my personal commentary and analysis.
Toronto's Top-Rated Stations
In Toronto, the ratings heap is led by CHFI, which maintained its 12.5% share for A12+. This stability is notable, especially given the broader industry challenges. CHFI also claimed the top spot for women 25-54, with a 20.3% share, a significant increase from the previous 16.0%. For men 25-54, KiSS 92.5 held its ground with a 14.1% share, despite a slight dip from 14.6%. The Edge took the lead for M18-34 with an 18.4% share, down from 24.0%. CHFI's dominance in the F18-34 demographic is particularly interesting, as it leads with a 26.8% share, a substantial increase from 21.6%.
Vancouver's Radio Landscape
Vancouver's radio scene is dominated by CBC Radio One, which secured the top spot for A12+ with a 17.9% share of hours tuned, down from 18.9%. 94.5 Virgin Radio took the lead for F25-54 with a 19.5% share, a slight decline from 21.9%. CFOX holds the lead for M25-54 listeners, with a 14.1% share, down from 14.9%. The Peak follows CFOX for M18-34 with a 14.0% share. Virgin Radio's lead in the F18-34 demographic is notable, with a 15.6% share, down from 24.0%.
Edmonton's Radio Leaders
In Edmonton, UP 99.3 takes the top spot for A12+ with a 14.3% share of hours tuned, up from 12.5%. UP 99.3 also leads for F25-54 with a 28.0% share, up from 25.8%. KiSS 91.7 tops the list for M25-54 with a 16.9% share, followed by NOW! Radio with 10.0%. For M18-34, KiSS maintains its lead with a 17.0% share. UP 99.3's dominance in the F18-34 demographic is particularly striking, with a 37.9% share, down from 40.1%.
Calgary's Radio Scene
Calgary's radio scene is led by CBC Radio One for A12+ with a 15.3% share, down from 16.6%. X92.9 takes the top spot for F25-54 with a 9.2% share. CJAY rules for M25-54 with a 11.5% share. AMP Radio leads for M18-34 with a 13.3% share. CJAY tops F18-34 with a 29.3% share.
Montreal's Radio Landscape
In Montreal, Radio Canada Premiere is the top-rated station for A12+ (Franco) with a 22.1% share, down from 23.8%. 98.5FM follows with a 20.6% share. For A12+ (Anglo), CJAD 800 leads with a 32.7% share, down from 33.5%. 98.5 FM takes the top spot for F25-54 (Franco) with a 19.4% share, up from 17.6%. Virgin Radio leads for F25-54 (Anglo) with a 30.3% share, up from 27.3%. Radio Canada Premiere is on top for M25-54 (Franco) with a 23.3% share, while The Beat leads for M25-54 (Anglo) with a 23.2% share, up from 21.5%.
Personal Commentary and Analysis
These ratings offer a fascinating glimpse into the current state of the radio industry. One thing that immediately stands out is the impact of financial challenges on staffing and sample sizes. The consolidation and cuts in the radio industry are evident, and the shift from diaries to a new methodology is a significant development. The three different approaches for Numeris markets, radioCount markets, and PPM markets will likely lead to a more complex reporting landscape.
The ratings also highlight the continued reach and retail impact of radio. Despite the challenges, radio retains an average weekly reach of 80% for Canadians A12+, with in-home and out-of-home tuning split evenly. The fact that 11% of radio consumption comes from AM/FM live radio streaming is particularly interesting, suggesting that the medium is adapting to changing consumer habits.
In my opinion, the ratings also underscore the importance of understanding the nuances of different demographics. For example, the shift in leadership for F18-34 in Edmonton and Calgary highlights the dynamic nature of this demographic. Similarly, the increase in shares for women 25-54 in Toronto and Vancouver suggests a growing interest in radio among this group.
One thing that many people don't realize is the impact of cultural and linguistic factors on radio ratings. In Montreal, the dominance of Radio Canada Premiere in the Franco demographic highlights the importance of cultural relevance in radio programming. Similarly, the lead of CJAD 800 in the Anglo demographic underscores the need for diverse and inclusive content.
If you take a step back and think about it, these ratings also raise a deeper question about the future of radio. As the industry evolves, how will radio adapt to changing consumer habits and technological advancements? Will the shift to a new methodology lead to a more accurate and comprehensive understanding of radio's reach and impact? These are questions that the industry must grapple with as it navigates the crossroads of change and innovation.
In conclusion, the spring 2026 PPM ratings offer a fascinating glimpse into the current state of the radio industry. As the industry faces financial challenges and the impending shift to a new methodology, these ratings provide a snapshot of the changing tides. By understanding the key findings and insights, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the complexities and nuances of the radio landscape. And as we look to the future, these ratings also raise important questions about the direction of the industry and the role of radio in the digital age.
