Bauer Media Audio UK, home to audio brands including KISS, Hits Radio, and Greatest Hits Radio, has today been announced as the official radio partner for Manchester's brand new 23,500-capacity arena, Co-op Live. The partnership will see Bauer provide its substantial local and national audiences with regular updates and exclusive content from the venue in the lead up to opening night and beyond, including full details on upcoming performances by a varied range of global superstars and special events.

Set to open its doors on 23 April 2024, Co-op Live will become the UK’s largest live entertainment arena and promises to be a game-changer for the UK music scene. Set to become Europe’s most sustainable arena and an industry-leading home to unparalleled live experiences, the venue boasts an innovative bowl design, cutting-edge visual technology and exceptional acoustics, ensuring an unforgettable experience for fans attending performances by some of the world’s biggest artists.

As part of the partnership, Bauer Media will bring its renowned multi-artist event, Hits Radio Live, to its new home in Manchester, Co-op Live, on 23 November 2024. The event, which also runs in Birmingham and Liverpool, is an opportunity for fans to experience live performances by some of their favourite Hits Radio artists. The much-anticipated line-up for the Manchester event will be announced soon.

Ben Cooper, Chief Content and Music Officer for Bauer Media Audio UK, shared: “I’m going to love watching my favourite artists perform in Co-op Live as I believe it represents the future of live music experiences, from its sustainable design ethos to its state-of-the-art visual technology. With creative ambition and innovation at its heart, the partnership feels a natural fit, as we bring an access all areas pass to the UK’s only music-first arena to our audience of over 23 million passionate music fans.”

Caroline McNamara, Strategic Events Director for Bauer Media Audio UK, added: “Through our engaging multi-platform content and events, we aim to bring our audiences even closer to the artists they love, so we’re thrilled to partner with Co-op Live and host radio events at this iconic new venue, while also providing listeners with insights into the stories behind the arena and updates on when they can catch their favourite acts.”

Gary Roden, Executive Director and General Manager, Co-op Live said: “With proven, strong reach and influence both locally and across the UK, partnering with Bauer Media Audio UK will further strengthen Co-op Live’s position across the country. Mirroring our dedication to our home city, and supporting our ever-growing national fan base, the partnership will ensure more people in Manchester and beyond can enjoy news, updates and exclusive content from the world’s biggest artists at the country’s largest live entertainment arena.”