Ticketmaster to Face UK Competition Probe Over Ticket Resales

Ticketmaster UK faces an investigation as competition concerns emerge

The UK's competition watchdog has launched a formal investigation into Ticketmaster UK, scrutinizing its practices concerning ticket resales.

Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) Announcement

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) stated on Wednesday that the probe targets Ticketmaster UK's potential breaches of competition law, specifically regarding secondary ticket resales.

Probe Rationale

The CMA has received indications that Ticketmaster UK might be imposing restrictions on secondary ticket sales, including blocking resellers from using Ticketmaster's platform.

CMA's Investigation Objectives

The CMA’s probe aims to ascertain whether Ticketmaster’s practices have hindered competition within the secondary ticket market, leading to higher costs for consumers.

Expected Outcomes

The investigation might result in the CMA issuing an order that prohibits Ticketmaster from engaging in anti-competitive actions or mandating modifications to its policies.

Background: The Secondary Ticket Market

Secondary ticket markets facilitate the resale of tickets for events. Ticketmaster, one of the world’s largest ticket companies, runs a secondary platform, allowing fans to buy and sell tickets for events that have already sold out or are in high demand.

What's Next?

The CMA's investigation is ongoing, and further announcements will be made upon its conclusion.