WorldDAB shared an infographic claiming that nearly 12 million DAB receivers were sold in Europe and Asia Pacific in 2017, a new record for annual sales. Cumulative DAB and DAB+ set sales in the UK have exceeded 35.6 million, while Norway has seen sales of 5.6 million and Germany sales of 9.91 million.
Norway is leading DAB/DAB+ access in cars, with 98% of new vehicles having the digital radio access. The UK is next with 89% and Switzerland at 85% of new cars. Those three markets are the farthest along, while Australia is the next with 47% of new cars with DAB/DAB+.
WorldDAB reported that total DAB/DAB+ network coverage is strong for several European markets. In 2017, network coverage was 95% or more in Norway, Switzerland, the UK, Denmark, Germany, and the Netherlands.
“The last 12 months have been a strong period for DAB radio,” WorldDAB President Patrick Hannon said. “International receiver sales are at their highest level ever — boosted by the switch-off of FM in Norway and strong growth in other European markets.”
The full infographic report, available here, also reviews the latest data on stations available via DAB/DAB+, first level road coverage, and updates on DAB/DAB+ development within emerging markets.