Rogers Sports and Media is cutting 230 positions nationwide and shuttering six radio stations, including two in Calgary: 660 NewsRadio and Sportsnet 960 The Fan (960 AM). The closures were announced Tuesday, with broadcasts interrupted mid-stream and listeners later hearing a recorded message confirming the end of operations.
Stations closed across four markets
The affected stations are located in four markets across Canada. In addition to the two Calgary outlets, Rogers is closing stations in other cities, though the company did not immediately disclose all locations. The move leaves Rogers with 44 radio stations in nearly 30 communities.
Approximately 80 of the 230 job cuts are directly tied to the radio station closures, according to the company. About half of the affected positions are corporate and support roles spanning sales, marketing, and programming.
Company cites declining revenue and audience trends
“After a thorough review of our radio stations, we have made the difficult but necessary decision to close six radio stations in four markets due to declining audience and revenue trends — we continue to own and operate 44 radio stations in nearly 30 communities across the country and to invest in local news in the impacted markets,” a spokesperson for Rogers Sports and Media said in a statement.
The spokesperson added: “The media business continues to face headwinds driven by declining advertising revenue and changing audience habits. These changes are part of our plan to focus our investment in areas that will drive growth long-term.”
Impact on Calgary listeners and staff
660 NewsRadio had served as a Calgary all-news station, while Sportsnet 960 The Fan was a dedicated sports talk outlet. Their sudden closure leaves a gap in local radio news and sports coverage. The company has not specified severance details or whether any on-air talent will be reassigned.
Rogers emphasized that it continues to invest in local news in the affected markets through other platforms, but did not provide specifics. The cuts are part of broader restructuring in Canada's radio industry, which has seen multiple stations close or reduce staff in recent years due to digital competition and shifting advertising dollars.
