The European Commission has initiated an “urgent review” into Ticketmaster’s dynamic pricing practices following backlash over soaring ticket prices for Oasis’s highly anticipated 2025 reunion tour. The investigation focuses on whether the platform’s pricing strategies comply with UK and European regulations, with reports indicating that ticket prices have surged from £135 to £350.
A spokesperson for the European Commission confirmed the review, stating that the practice of dynamic pricing is under scrutiny. The UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has also announced it is “urgently reviewing” the use of dynamic pricing by Ticketmaster.
The CMA emphasized that consumer protection laws mandate businesses to be fair and transparent, requiring clear and accurate pricing information. Failure to adhere to these standards could constitute a legal breach.
This review is part of a broader “fitness check” of EU consumer laws, which may lead Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) to consider various regulatory measures, including potential bans or alternative solutions.
While dynamic pricing itself is not illegal, concerns have been raised about its application. Specifically, issues could arise if prices increase after consumers have added tickets to their online carts, or if essential pricing information is not provided upfront.
The UK’s Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) has received numerous complaints alleging that Ticketmaster did not adequately disclose potential price increases, which only became apparent to fans at the checkout stage after prolonged online queues.
UK Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy addressed the issue, stating, “This government is committed to putting fans back at the heart of music. We will address transparency and the use of dynamic pricing, including technology that influences it, in our forthcoming consultation on consumer protections for ticket resales.”
The outcome of the European Commission’s review and the CMA’s investigation could significantly impact how dynamic pricing is regulated and implemented in the future.
