The UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has identified potential consumer protection law breaches by Ticketmaster during Oasis ticket sales, prompting calls for significant platform changes.

Key Investigation Findings:

• Ticketmaster allegedly misled fans about "platinum" tickets by increasing prices without explaining these tickets offered no additional benefits over standard tickets in the same areas
• The platform failed to properly communicate that standing tickets were being sold in two different price tiers, with cheaper tickets released first
• No evidence was found of algorithmic "Dynamic Pricing" being used during the sales

Current Status:

While Ticketmaster has implemented some changes to its ticket sales process, the CMA states these modifications are insufficient. The watchdog is now working with Ticketmaster to implement further improvements, including:

• Clearer ticket labeling
• Better consumer information
• Enhanced transparency in pricing tiers

Ticketmaster's Response:

In a statement, Ticketmaster UK expressed willingness to cooperate, stating they "welcome the CMA's input in helping make the industry even better for fans" while emphasizing their commitment to providing a transparent and consumer-friendly experience.

This investigation comes as Ticketmaster's parent company, Live Nation, faces additional scrutiny, including an ongoing DOJ antitrust suit in the United States and a recently settled investor class action.

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