Following significant backlash from fans during the chaotic Oasis tour ticket sales, Ticketmaster has voluntarily abandoned its controversial ‘platinum’ ticket labeling system in the United Kingdom. The decision comes amid intensifying scrutiny from the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), which launched an investigation into the company’s selling practices after widespread complaints about transparency and pricing during the Oasis reunion tour sales.
The removal of the ‘platinum’ designation represents a significant shift for the ticketing giant, which had previously used the label for dynamically priced tickets that fluctuated based on demand. Although separate from formal undertakings provided to the CMA, this voluntary action addresses concerns that the terminology misled consumers about ticket value or suggested premium benefits that didn’t actually exist.
While the CMA found no evidence that Ticketmaster had breached consumer law in this particular case, the company committed to implementing a series of transparency and consumer protection measures within six weeks. These changes aim to provide fans with more timely and accurate pricing details, particularly when multiple pricing models operate simultaneously.
The investigation also dispelled claims that a dynamic pricing algorithm had been used specifically for Oasis tickets, despite widespread fan assumptions to the contrary.
Nevertheless, Ticketmaster’s commitments signal a broader industry shift toward fairer ticketing practices under increasing regulatory pressure.
The removal of the ‘platinum’ label has affected the user experience on Ticketmaster’s platforms, with some customers reporting difficulties in filtering out higher-priced tickets previously marked with the designation. Users must now rely on price sliders or other methods to exclude expensive options when searching for seats.
Under the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act 2024, the CMA now wields greater enforcement powers, including the ability to levy fines of up to 10% of turnover for violations.
This regulatory environment has clearly influenced Ticketmaster’s decision to proactively address consumer concerns before facing potential penalties, reflecting the company’s efforts to rebuild trust amid intense public criticism. The CMA’s investigation initially started after complaints about misleading pricing practices that included different prices for standing tickets at the same concert. Music industry experts suggest that companies like Ticketmaster could benefit from implementing more clear audience targeting strategies to better manage consumer expectations. The company is now required to provide regular compliance reports to the CMA over the next two years to ensure continued adherence to consumer protection standards.
The situation highlights how important royalty management systems are for artists who depend on concert revenue, especially as organizations like ASCAP and BMI ensure performers receive proper compensation when their music is used in public venues.
