For two months, campaign ads have crowded the airwaves. Political advertisers spent nearly $1 billion from September 8 to 27 alone, and 58.3% went to local broadcast stations, according to the Wesleyan Media Project. Once polls close Nov. 3, that changes—and businesses that act early can get more from their radio advertising this holiday season.

What Happens to Radio Advertising After the Election?

During the 60 days before a general election, federal broadcast regulations require stations to sell candidates airtime at the lowest unit charge. After Election Day, that window closes, and campaign spots disappear. Schedules open up, and your message no longer competes with nonstop political ads.

Why Is November a Smart Time for Radio Advertising?

November starts the year’s biggest shopping stretch. In 2016, November accounted for 8.5% of roughly $5.5 trillion in U.S. retail and food services sales, and December accounted for 9.8%, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

Radio still reaches most of those shoppers. As recent as 2023, 82% of Americans ages 12 and older listened to AM/FM radio weekly, according to Pew Research Center. That reach makes radio advertising a natural anchor for holiday advertising.

How Should Local Businesses Plan Holiday Radio Advertising?

Strong holiday campaigns are simple, specific, and consistent. Make sure your plan covers these basics:

Book early. Reserve your schedule in early November, before other holiday advertisers claim the best times.
Lead with one offer. Name the deal, dates, and location.
Repeat your message. Listeners need to hear a spot more than once to remember it.
Give one call to action. A phone number or simple web address works best.

Local radio advertising also reaches shoppers where you do business: In Joplin and across the Four States.

Should Radio Advertising Work With Digital Ads?

Yes. Radio and digital advertising work best together. Radio builds awareness through voices listeners already trust, while digital ads reach those same people when they search, scroll or stream. Someone who hears about your sale on the drive home can see your Google ad that evening and recognize your name. Zimmer Marketing manages both.

How Do I Get Started With Radio Advertising in the Four States?

Business owners looking for radio advertising in Joplin, MO, can start with Zimmer’s stations that listeners trust: KIX 102.5, Kissin 92.5, Newstalk KZRG, Classic Hits 93.9, Big Dog 97.9, and AM1230 The Talker. Zimmer’s in-house Creative Audio team writes and produces your spots, so you don’t need a script or studio.

Frequently Asked Questions About Radio Advertising

How Much Does a Radio Campaign Cost?

Radio advertising cost depends on the station, time of day, and how often your spot runs. The U.S. Small Business Administration notes there’s no single right budget, though it reports business-to-consumer service companies spent an average of 11.8% of revenue on marketing in 2018.

How Soon Will I See Results?

Results build as listeners hear your message repeatedly. Starting in early November gives it time to work before the December rush.

Ready to make the most of the post-election airwaves? Call Zimmer Marketing at (417) 624-1025 or schedule a meeting with an account executive. Together, you’ll build a radio and digital plan that fits your budget, goals, and holiday calendar—so customers remember your business.

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Radio Advertising After the Election: Why November Wins