WRS risks closure unless new ownership is found

After nearly 30 years on air, World Radio Switzerland (WRS) - Switzerland’s only 24/7 English-language radio station - will close at the end of 2025 unless new ownership is secured.

Launched in 1996 by the SSR as World Radio Geneva, WRS is a key voice for Switzerland’s international community. Privately run since 2011, the station is currently owned by its two main presenters and Co-Directors, Mark Butcher and Katt Cullen.

Mark Butcher, a familiar voice on the Breakfast Show since day one, plans to retire in 2026. Co-host Katt Cullen, who joined in 2014 and became Co-Director in 2021, will step back to focus on other projects, including podcasting. Both are committed to supporting a smooth transition to any potential new team and are keen to see the station continue in new hands.

“We need someone with fresh energy and vision to take the reins.” says Cullen. “If no-one steps forward, WRS will sadly close in 2026. I really hope it doesn’t come to that.”

WRS broadcasts on DAB+ in Geneva, Vaud and Valais, as well as online via its website and mobile app. It reaches an estimated 19,000 listeners monthly across 150,000+ connections, with the majority based in Greater Geneva. Furthermore, the website attracts 36,000 unique monthly users and over 73,000 page views. This internationally-minded, highly-educated, professional audience makes the station a strong platform for advertisers and sponsors, who currently fund the operating costs - currently around CHF 320’000 annually - approximately a third of station’s pre-pandemic revenue.

“There’s real potential here,” says Butcher. “With Switzerland’s FM switch-off approaching and our 30th anniversary next year, the timing is right for someone with vision to take this forward.”

Broadcasting from a studio in Meyrin, Geneva, WRS also maintains a long-standing partnership with the BBC World Service.

As well as the brand, the station’s assets include broadcast infrastructure, transmitter space, digital platforms, and committed partners; advertisers, suppliers and contributors.

This is a rare opportunity for media entrepreneurs, investors, or organisations with a vision for the future of broadcasting, who are looking to take over a trusted brand with deep community roots and nearly 30 years of broadcasting history in Switzerland. The new owners will have the chance to shape the next chapter of WRS, continuing to serve a loyal and influential audience while leveraging its established position in the Swiss media landscape.

Interested parties are encouraged to contact WRS directly to explore next steps.