The U.K.’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has launched an investigation into the sale of tickets for upcoming reunion concerts by iconic 1990s Britpop band Oasis. The investigation will focus on the use of “dynamic pricing” by Live Nation Entertainment’s Ticketmaster unit, where ticket prices can rapidly change based on market conditions. Many fans who queued online for tickets ended up paying more than double the face value, sparking complaints of deceptive practices.
Critics have questioned the use of dynamic pricing for the Oasis concerts, particularly since it was known in advance that demand for tickets would be high. The CMA will examine whether Ticketmaster engaged in unfair commercial practices and breached consumer protection laws. They will assess whether consumers were adequately informed about dynamic pricing and if they were pressured into purchasing tickets at higher prices than expected.
Sarah Cardell, the chief executive of the CMA, emphasized the importance of treating fans fairly when purchasing tickets. The watchdog is encouraging fans who experienced issues to come forward and provide evidence for the investigation. Ticketmaster has stated that they do not set concert prices, as this responsibility falls on the event organizer. Oasis, led by brothers Noel and Liam Gallagher, expressed surprise at the use of dynamic pricing and apologized for the failed execution of the ticketing plan.
The tickets on sale were for various concert dates across the U.K. and Ireland, with additional dates announced at Wembley Stadium. Dynamic pricing will not be used for these new dates, providing relief for fans who were unable to secure tickets in the initial sale. Formed in Manchester in 1991, Oasis was a prominent British band of the 1990s known for hits like “Wonderwall” and “Don’t Look Back in Anger.” Despite the band’s split in 2009, both Gallagher brothers continue to perform Oasis songs at their solo shows.
The investigation into the Oasis ticket sales controversy has also led to calls from lawmakers in Ireland to ban the use of dynamic pricing in ticket sales. The CMA will seek evidence from Ticketmaster, the band’s management, and event organizers to determine if consumer protection laws were violated. While Oasis has stated that they were not aware of the dynamic pricing strategy, they reiterated that ticketing decisions are made by promoters and management. Fans who felt they had a negative experience are urged to participate in the investigation to ensure fair treatment in future ticket sales.
