The UK Competition and Markets Authority is investigating Ticketmaster over concerns that the company treated customers unfairly during the sale of tickets to the upcoming Oasis reunion tour. This investigation adds to the troubles facing Ticketmaster’s parent company, Live Nation, which is already facing an antitrust lawsuit in the US that could lead to the firm’s breakup. The investigation will focus on whether fans were properly informed about dynamic pricing, where prices can change based on demand, and whether they were pressured into purchasing tickets at a higher price than they expected.
The CMA emphasized that while dynamic pricing is not automatically illegal, it could be a breach of consumer protection or competition laws in certain cases. The authority stated that ticket sales sites must be transparent in their dealings with consumers and provide clear and accurate information about pricing. Depending on the evidence collected, the CMA may choose to close the investigation, request undertakings from Ticketmaster to address concerns, or take legal action against the company once the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act comes into force later in the year.
Fans trying to purchase tickets for the Oasis reunion tour faced issues over the weekend, including inflated prices, long wait times, and error messages on Ticketmaster’s website. Some fans reported waiting for hours only to receive a message stating that their session had been suspended. CMA CEO Sarah Cardell expressed the importance of treating fans fairly when purchasing tickets, stating that many people felt they had a negative experience and were surprised by the prices they were charged at checkout. Ticketmaster, however, maintains that they do not set ticket prices as they are determined by promoters and artists, either on a fixed or demand-based pricing structure.
Ticket buying for major concerts has often been associated with difficulties and complaints from fans. Ticketmaster previously faced backlash for issues concerning the Taylor Swift Eras Tour in November 2022 and has been involved in controversies surrounding ticket sales for other events in the past. The investigation by the CMA underscores the need for transparency and fair treatment of consumers when purchasing tickets, as well as the potential legal consequences for companies that fail to meet these standards. Ticketmaster has stated that they are cooperating with the CMA during the investigation process and will address any concerns raised by the authority.
