UK opens Ticketmaster investigation into Oasis shows

The UK’s competition watchdog on Thursday launched an investigation into Ticketmaster in relation to the sale of Oasis concert tickets, including the use of “dynamic pricing” to overcharge fans at the last minute.

Thousands of fans waited hours in virtual queues last weekend for tickets to the British band’s reunion shows next summer, only to discover that prices had risen under a “dynamic pricing” scheme.

Many thought they would pay the advertised fee of £148.50 (US$195.10), but ended up paying more than double, £355.20.

The Competition and Markets Authority said it was examining whether the sale of Oasis concert tickets by Ticketmaster, the official ticket selling partner for the show, may breach consumer protection law.

It said it would examine whether Ticketmaster engaged in “unfair business practices”, whether fans were given “clear and timely” information to make clear that tickets could be subject to “dynamic pricing”, and whether people were pressured to buy. Tickets in short order. Of time.

The authority said it should not be assumed that Ticketmaster violated consumer protection laws. As part of the investigation, fans are being asked to provide evidence of their experiences.

Ticketmaster did not initially respond to a request for comment on the investigation.

In a statement issued to PA Media and cited by the BBC, Oasis said that decisions regarding tickets and prices are the responsibility of the promoters.

The band said that Oasis “were not aware at any time that dynamic pricing would be used” in ticket sales for the initial dates.