What is the Digital Fairness Act and how does it relate to ticket scalping?

The Digital Fairness Act is a proposed EU legislation aiming to update consumer protection. The live events industry wants its scope expanded to specifically tackle industrial-scale ticket scalping.

How much money is generated by unauthorized ticket resale in Europe?

Industry estimates suggest that unauthorized ticket resale platforms generate around €2.5 billion annually across Europe.

Which major artists and organizations are calling for EU action on ticket resale?

Managers for artists like Ed Sheeran and Harry Styles, alongside festivals such as Montreux Jazz and Sziget, and venues like the Czech National Theatre, have signed the open letter.

Home / Business and Economy / EU Faces Ticket Scalping Crisis: Industry Calls for Action

EU Faces Ticket Scalping Crisis: Industry Calls for Action

13 Jan

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Summary

Industry figures urge EU to update Digital Fairness Act against scalping.
Unauthorized ticket resale platforms generate an estimated €2.5 billion annually.
Major European artists, festivals, and venues back the call for action.

EU Faces Ticket Scalping Crisis: Industry Calls for Action

A broad coalition of over 130 figures from the European live events industry has penned an open letter to EU Justice Commissioner Michael McGrath. They are urgently requesting action against rampant unauthorized ticket resale, which they contend is harming fans and the wider live event sector. The industry is specifically pushing for an expansion of the Digital Fairness Act's scope to directly confront large-scale ticket scalping operations.

This significant industry-wide appeal garners support from managers representing global superstars like Ed Sheeran and Harry Styles, alongside influential European bands and festivals such as Rammstein and Sziget Festival. Prominent venues, including the Czech National Theatre, and organizations like YOUROPE are also backing the call, highlighting the pervasive nature of the issue across the continent.