Steckline Communications Purchased Radio Station KWME
The media group acquired the 92.7 FM station for $275,000 and rebranded it as 92.7 The Keeper of the Hits.
Updated on Oct. 10, 2026 in Country
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Steckline Communications has acquired radio station KWME for $275,000 to serve the Wichita and Wellington areas. The station has been rebranded as 92.7 The Keeper of the Hits, focusing on music from the 1970s through 1990s.
Why it matters
The acquisition marks a strategic shift for the station, which is now repositioning itself with a softer music presentation featuring artists like Tom Petty and Aerosmith. This move aims to carve out a distinct identity in a competitive radio market.
KWME recorded a 0.7 share in the August 2026 Nielsen Audio ratings, trailing significantly behind the 7.6 share held by Audacy's 103.7 KEYN.
The players
Steckline Communications
This media group is the purchasing entity that acquired station KWME to expand its broadcast reach.
Audacy
This is a major American multi-platform audio company that owns and operates the rival station 103.7 KEYN.
The details
The station broadcasts on 92.7 FM and has implemented a softer music presentation in its transition. Promotional spots are currently highlighting music by Don McClean, Tom Petty, and Aerosmith to attract listeners in the Wichita and Wellington regions.
Timeline
August 2026 was the period during which Nielsen Audio ratings were measured.
October 9, 2026, was the date of the report regarding the acquisition and rebrand.
Industry Dynamics
The acquisition highlights the competitive challenges of smaller independent stations operating under the Nielsen Audio market share reporting framework. This move reflects a broader trend of format pivoting to capture niche demographics in crowded local radio environments.
Listeners in the Wichita and Wellington areas can now hear the station's new format on 92.7 FM. Future programming updates will follow the transition to the pending KGKP call letters.
The takeaway
The station is attempting to revitalize its listenership by moving toward a curated classic hits format. Residents who enjoy music from the 1970s through 1990s can expect a shift in the station's daily playlist composition.
Further reading
For more news on local media, visit the Country section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by RadioInsight.
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