The UK government is currently consulting on their own, comprehensive new crackdown on ticket touting. They would ban for-profit ticket reselling. This directive specifically addresses the growing problem of unlicensed resale sites such as Viagogo and StubHub. These platforms have come under fire for allowing people to make a killing off of price gouged tickets.
The new rules ban resale ticket outlets from selling tickets above the price of the initial face value. This rule provides all buyers the certainty of a fair price. The decision arises after a week of advocacy from prominent artists, including Radiohead, Dua Lipa, and Coldplay, who urged Labour leader Keir Starmer to follow through on a manifesto pledge to combat what they termed “pernicious” touts.
Ministers had also at one point proposed permitting secondary ticketing sites to sell tickets for 130% of face value. They chose not to take the step of requiring a licensing system for ticket resale companies. The government’s focus remains on protecting consumers by ensuring that tickets are sold at their original prices, thus preventing exploitation by touts.
The enforcement action adds to uncertainty about whether large resale markets including Viagogo and StubHub will be able to continue operating in the UK. Without 1000% mark-ups to line their pockets with profits, it would be pretty hard for these companies to continue their business models.
There are many ticket resale alternatives. Platforms such as Twickets and Ticketmaster’s own internal exchange system focus on face-value ticket resales. They often serve an essential role as ethical, trusted alternatives to profit-driven, advertising-dominated sites.
The government’s announcement would be a welcome addition to the next King’s speech, demonstrating the government’s willingness to work on this key issue. This decision identifies a palpable consumer sentiment on the rise, a demand for consumer rights, equitable access to live events. A recent outcry from creators and consumers alike has sparked this much needed conversation.
As the UK government prepares to implement these changes, the broader ticketing industry awaits further details on how these regulations will be enforced and their potential implications for both consumers and resale companies.