Ticketmaster’s practices appalling, galling

Re How Ticketmaster’s resale unit helps scalpers scoop up tickets, Sept. 19

As a frequent, avid concert goer, I am appalled by what you uncovered in your latest investigation regarding Ticketmaster’s double-dipping practices applied to already inflated ticket and service fees. Sadly, I rarely have success buying concert tickets when they go on sale as I have repeatedly encountered immediate “sellouts” or poor seating options within seconds of tickets going on sale.

As a consumer of live music, I find it reprehensible that the practice of reselling tickets multiple times (such as Ticketmaster/Ticketmaster verified resellers) enables Live Nation to double up on profits, while adding zero value, at the expense of their customer base. It’s a dishonest business practice that is in desperate need of further investigation, accountability and oversight.

I’m prepared to pay a premium for a great seat at a concert venue, but someone needs to call out the greed of large corporations that rip off the very clients they claim to serve. Doug Collitz, Toronto Wow, glad I was sitting down when I read your brilliant exposé of the (in my opinion) nefarious dealings of our beloved Ticketmaster! Who knew?

Ok, let’s get serious for a minute. Everybody knew. However, this being Canada, we turned the other cheek and not only put up with it, we actually supported it!

Is there still a Ministry of Consumer Affairs? This is about greed, pure and simple, and consumers need protection. The only thing worse than organized crime is organized greed. David Ottenbrite, Mississauga