Australian consumer think-tank, Choice, has called out Ticketmaster for its 'predatory' pricing tactic of hiding ticket prices until tickets go on sale. This practice, according to Choice, puts fans, particularly those of K-pop sensation BTS, under pressure to make impulse purchases.
Choice has stated that fans should be given the opportunity to know the prices before being sent into a 'high-pressure sales funnel'. The think-tank argues that this approach is unfair and can lead to financial distress for some consumers.
Ticketmaster's pricing tactic has been widely used for the BTS fan base, with many fans expressing frustration and disappointment on social media. The practice has sparked outrage among fans, who feel that they are being taken advantage of.
Choice has called on Ticketmaster to change its pricing policy and provide consumers with clear and transparent pricing information before tickets go on sale. The think-tank believes that this will help to prevent financial distress and protect consumers from being taken advantage of.
In a statement, Choice said: 'By hiding ticket prices until sale, Ticketmaster is using a tactic that is akin to a high-pressure sales funnel. This can lead to financial distress for some consumers, particularly those on low incomes or who are not aware of the true cost of the tickets.'
Ticketmaster has yet to comment on the allegations made by Choice. However, the controversy surrounding the pricing tactic has sparked a wider debate about consumer protection and transparency in the ticketing industry.