Ticketmaster Enhances Transparency Following UK Pricing Investigation

Ticketmaster has announced changes to its ticket advertising practices in response to an investigation by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) in the UK. The inquiry was sparked by a significant public backlash over the pricing strategy used for tickets to Oasis concerts, which included tiered pricing models that many fans found confusing. Moving forward, Ticketmaster will be required to inform customers 24 hours in advance if a tiered pricing system is in place for ticket sales.

In addition, the CMA mandated that Ticketmaster provide clearer information to UK customers regarding ticket prices while they are waiting in online queues. The authority concluded that Ticketmaster “may have misled Oasis fans” by not adequately explaining the pricing structure.

Jess Kelly, Tech Correspondent for Newstalk, emphasized the distinction between tiered pricing and dynamic pricing during her appearance on Lunchtime Live. She clarified that the CMA found no evidence that Ticketmaster employed real-time dynamic pricing, which adjusts ticket prices based on demand. Instead, the investigation revealed that the pricing was tiered, meaning tickets are categorized into different price sections based on factors such as proximity to the stage and seating arrangements.

Changes Promised by Ticketmaster

In light of the CMA’s findings, Ticketmaster has committed to enhancing its communication regarding ticket pricing and queue management. The company will continue its efforts to cap resale values and strengthen its protections against ticket bots, ensuring that consumers receive transparent pricing information. Kelly noted that these changes aim to improve customer experience for future concerts, including potential Oasis events.

Despite these commitments, some industry observers remain skeptical about the effectiveness of these measures. Brian Lloyd, a TV critic for entertainment.ie, expressed concern that the persistence of dynamic pricing practices could undermine the benefits of the new transparency initiatives. He pointed out that dynamic pricing tends to favor Ticketmaster rather than benefiting artists or fans.

Lloyd stated, “As far as I’m aware, the music artists themselves don’t generally tend to see any of that money when it comes to dynamic pricing in the US.” He raised further questions about whether such pricing strategies truly serve the interests of either customers or performers.

The recent changes come amid heightened scrutiny of ticketing practices within the entertainment industry. Fans often express frustration over rising costs, especially when ticket prices fluctuate dramatically due to demand.

As the landscape of ticket sales continues to evolve, the outcome of Ticketmaster’s commitments and their impact on consumer trust remains to be seen. With the CMA’s intervention, fans can expect a clearer understanding of ticket pricing structures in the future.

The announcement follows significant events, including two sold-out concerts at Croke Park in Ireland, which took place on August 16, 2025. As the industry adapts to these changes, the dialogue surrounding fair pricing practices and transparency in ticket sales will likely continue to unfold.