UK Watchdog Probes Ticketmaster Over Oasis Reunion Ticket Pricing

The UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has initiated an investigation into Ticketmaster's handling of ticket sales for the highly anticipated Oasis reunion concerts scheduled for summer 2025. This probe, launched on September 5, 2024, comes in response to widespread fan complaints about unexpected price increases due to dynamic pricing strategies.

Oasis, the iconic British band formed in Manchester in 1991, has sold over 75 million records worldwide, making them one of the best-selling bands of all time. Their reunion announcement has generated significant excitement among fans, many of whom experienced frustration during the ticket purchasing process.

The CMA's investigation focuses on potential breaches of consumer protection law, examining several key areas:

• The implementation of dynamic pricing
• Transparency in communicating potential price changes
• Pressure tactics used during the sales process

Fans reported waiting in virtual queues for extended periods, only to discover that ticket prices had more than doubled from the initially advertised £148.50 to £355.20. This dramatic increase has raised concerns about the fairness and transparency of Ticketmaster's pricing practices.

In response to the controversy, Oasis issued a statement through PA Media, asserting that decisions regarding ticketing and pricing were the responsibility of promoters and management. The band claimed they had no prior knowledge of dynamic pricing being implemented for the initial concert dates.

The UK government has also announced plans to investigate concert ticket pricing practices, indicating a broader concern about the issue within the music industry. Dynamic pricing, which adjusts prices based on demand, has become increasingly prevalent across various markets, often leading to fan dissatisfaction in live entertainment events.

"At no time had any awareness that dynamic pricing was going to be used"

Despite the pricing controversy, the demand for Oasis reunion shows remains high. The band initially announced 14 shows, starting in Cardiff in July 2025, followed by performances in Manchester, London, Edinburgh, and Dublin. Due to overwhelming fan interest, they have since added five additional dates, including extra concerts in Manchester, London, and Edinburgh.

The Oasis reunion marks a significant moment in British music history. The band's influence on the Britpop genre and 1990s British culture is undeniable, with their 1994 debut album "Definitely Maybe" becoming the fastest-selling debut album in British history at the time. Their iconic songs like "Wonderwall" and "Don't Look Back in Anger" have left an indelible mark on the music landscape.

As the CMA investigation unfolds, fans are encouraged to submit evidence of their ticket-buying experiences. The outcome of this probe could have far-reaching implications for the ticketing industry and how dynamic pricing is implemented in the future.