Local TV Revenues Dropped in ’11, But Strong Rebound Forecast

Local TV over-the-air (OTA) revenues dropped 7.8% year-over-year in 2011 from $19.4 billion to $17.9 billion, due primarily to the economy and the odd-year election cycle, details BIA/Kelsey in a May 2012 report. Online revenue sources were strong, though, at $535 million, marking an 18.7% rise compared to the $450 million that local TV stations earned online in 2010. This year, combined OTA and online revenues are predicted to rebound and pass the $20 billion mark to reach $20.3 billion, driven by presidential and other elections, a better consumer spending environment, and continued growth in online ad spending. (more…)