Retrenchment at the BBC

This story has, unsurprisingly, generated a lot of media interest. A report in the Times (described as speculation and not entirely denied by the BBC) predicts that the result of a recent strategic review by the BBC will result in some classic retrenchment by the public-sector broadcaster.

Non-core radio stations are tipped as candidates for closure and the BBC’s burgeoning web output is expected to be cut significantly. Bad news for BBC listeners, viewers and readers perhaps (who, in the UK are licence fee payers of course). But good news (and a source of many opportunities) for the private sector. Who, for example, will fill the gaps in the market if BBC 6 Music is closed? Students might also question whether there really is a gap in the market! A good introduction to the concept of retrenchment, and there are some strong stakeholder issues raised here too.