Ticket mark-ups now average 25%-41% over face value, with added fees such as booking, venue levies, and processing charges. This represents a significant increase from previous years when fees were much lower. Many artists, like singer Kate Nash, have voiced frustration over a “cost-of-touring crisis,” where most of the revenue goes to promoters, venues, and ticketing platforms, leaving minimal earnings for performers. Nash protested outside Live Nation’s offices, criticizing the system. Industry giants like Live Nation and AEG dominate ticketing and venues through exclusive agreements, limiting competition and contributing to excessive fees for fans. Ticketmaster is under investigation by the UK Competition and Markets Authority for using dynamic pricing models, which inflate costs based on demand. New consumer protection laws set to start in April will require companies to display upfront prices to combat “drip pricing.” Additionally, consultations on capping resale values aim to address ticket scalping. Consumers feel exploited by “sneaky fees,” while organizations like Which? advocate for greater transparency and fairness in ticket pricing.
The full article can be read here.