Galaxy Radio to offer holidays

Chrysalis Radio’s Galaxy network is to offer branded holiday packages and has signed its first deal with tour operator Airtours.

The Galaxy Radio Network, which comprises five dance music radio stations across England and Wales, is to sell holiday packages to the US, Australia and the Mediterranean. The working title for the holidays is Galaxy goes global”.

The first package, a one-week holiday to Ibiza for £399, will be sold through Airtours division Escapades Hi Energy Holidays. It will be promoted on Galaxy stations and sold through a hotline telephone number.

The package includes discounted entrance fees to Galaxy events hosted by DJs, including Boy George and Melanie Sykes, plus VIP access to bars and parties.

Marketing director Steve Parkinson says: With five Galaxy stations, an online presence and a holiday arm, we can build on the loyalty that has been established with our listeners.”

Galaxy will announce holiday deals to other destinations later this year. EMAP-owned dance radio brand Kiss 100 offers holiday packages to Ibiza with Twenties part of operator First Choice. Last year it sold 1,000 packages.

The extension of the Galaxy brand to holidays follows the launch of a branded range of clothing and accessories to appeal to its core audience of 15- to 34-year-olds.

According to Rajar, Galaxy radio stations reach just over 2 million listeners.