Fan Frustration and Government Action: The Oasis Reunion Tour Ticket Pricing Controversy

Sky-high prices for Oasis concert tickets 'disheartening' – officials to examine fluctuating pricing strategies

"Time to reflect on our frustration," posted an Oasis enthusiast on social media, expressing dismay over the ticketing process for the eagerly awaited comeback tour.

Monday, September 2, 2024, 12:

The administration has pledged to investigate fluctuating ticket prices following reports that Oasis reunion tour tickets saw their prices surge by over 100% during the sales period.

Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy labeled the high pricing of Oasis concert tickets as "depressing" and announced that surge pricing will be examined in a government review targeting the resale of event tickets.

On Saturday, enthusiasts of the globally renowned music group spent hours in online lines, eager to secure tickets for one of next year's comeback concerts.

Yet, after enduring long lines and extended delays, numerous attendees faced ticket costs significantly exceeding their original price.

Many voiced their frustration online after tickets originally priced at £148 were being listed for £355 on Ticketmaster shortly after going on sale, a surge attributed to the platform's dynamic pricing strategies.

Over the weekend, Ms. Nandy stated that in an impending government consultation, both the issues themselves and the "technology behind queue systems that encourage it" will be examined.

She expressed disappointment, stating, "Following the exciting announcement of Oasis's comeback, it's disheartening to witness the exorbitant ticket prices that prevent regular fans from experiencing their beloved band in concert."

"This administration is dedicated to recentering fans as the core focus of the music industry."

"In our upcoming discussion on consumer protections for ticket resales, we plan to address concerns regarding the transparency and application of dynamic pricing, as well as the technology that supports queue systems which encourage it."

"By collaborating with artists, the industry, and concertgoers, we can develop a more equitable system that eliminates the problems caused by scalpers and overpriced ticket resales, guaranteeing reasonably priced tickets for everyone."

What does dynamic pricing mean?

This pricing strategy, which fluctuates based on demand, was launched by Ticketmaster in 2022.

It was implemented to prevent scalping and to guarantee that a greater share of the profits reaches the artists.

When demand for tickets is high and supply is limited, prices tend to increase.

In response to outrage concerning the cost of Oasis's concert tickets, the organization clarified that they do not determine ticket pricing, and provided a link to a webpage explaining that prices may be "set or subject to market fluctuations".

On its official site, Ticketmaster defines its "Platinum" tickets as those whose prices fluctuate based on market demand and availability.

The text explains that the purpose of the dynamic pricing system is to ensure that fans can obtain tickets in a fair and secure manner, while also allowing artists and event organizers to set ticket prices that more accurately reflect their market value.

The firm states that it is the artists, along with their management and event promoters, who determine the prices and decide if dynamic pricing is implemented for their events.

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Cabinet member Lucy Powell found herself affected by surge pricing this past Saturday, ultimately paying over twice the initially stated price for a ticket to see Oasis in concert.

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) expressed support for the government's decision to conduct a review.

A representative stated: "Our goal is for fans to receive equitable treatment when purchasing tickets from secondary markets, and we have taken steps against prominent resale platforms to enforce compliance with consumer protection laws.

"We believe additional safeguards are necessary for consumers, so it's encouraging that the government is willing to tackle this issue. We are eager to collaborate with them to achieve optimal results for supporters and businesses that play by the rules."

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The announcement of the band's highly anticipated reunion was made by Noel and Liam Gallagher last Tuesday.

Dynamic pricing is widely utilized across various sectors, notably in the travel industry, where it is commonly applied to hotel accommodations and flight reservations.

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Jack Antonoff, a regular collaborator with Taylor Swift, has previously expressed concerns about dynamic pricing.

He explained to Stereogum that his goal was for artists to have the option to leave the system and set their own prices for their work.

Efforts have been made to obtain a statement from Ticketmaster.

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