The UK Government has launched a probe into Oasis ticket prices following outrage from fans who were asked to pay more than double the face value for standard tickets on Ticketmaster. The Culture Secretary has described the inflated selling of Oasis tickets as “incredibly depressing” and announced that surge pricing will be included in a UK Government review of the ticket sales market.
Fans expressed disappointment as they struggled with website issues and were incorrectly labelled as bots during the rush for Oasis reunion tour tickets. Despite the challenges, all 17 shows were announced as sold out, including the two shows set to take place in Cardiff. Government minister Lucy Powell was among those impacted by dynamic pricing, paying more than double the original quoted cost for an Oasis show.
In response to the situation, Lisa Nandy MP released a statement affirming the government’s commitment to ensuring fair ticket pricing for fans. She highlighted the importance of transparency and the need to address issues around dynamic pricing and queueing systems that incentivise inflated ticket costs.
Ticketmaster defended its position by stating they do not set ticket prices, attributing pricing decisions to the event organisers. The band’s promoters have been contacted for comment regarding the ticket prices. Oasis recently confirmed their reunion, marking the end of a decade-long split between brothers Noel and Liam Gallagher.
Concerns have also been raised about ticket resale platforms like Viagogo, with exorbitant prices listed for events. Oasis has advised fans to use only approved resale platforms and list tickets at face value to avoid cancellation.
The government’s review of surge pricing in the ticket sales market aims to address the challenges faced by fans in accessing tickets at fair prices. As the investigation unfolds, stakeholders in the music industry, along with fans, will participate in creating a fairer system that discourages ticket touting and ensures accessibility to live music events.