JAZZ FM appoints WARL for relaunch

WARL has been appointed to handle the relaunch of Jazz FM as a digital-only station. 

The agency, which previously worked with the brand five years ago, won the account without a pitch. The agency is developing an advertising campaign ahead of the launch of the radio station, which will be available on digital audio broadcasting and online, in in September. The ads will feature the old chameleon icon and “Listen in Colour” strapline. 

Jazz FM rebranded to Smooth FM three years ago and is now being brought back by the Local Radio Company under a three-year licence deal with brand owner Guardian Media Group Radio. 

The station will launch a DAB service in London, the North-West and the West Midlands, as well online and the Sky Digital platform. 

LRC founder and chief executive Richard Wheatly and financial director Alistair Mackenzie were part of the team that launched Jazz FM before selling to GMG for £41m.