Ticketmaster, the world’s largest live event ticketing company, began in 1976. Albert Leffler, Peter Gadwa, Gordon Gunn, Charles H Hamby Jr., and Jerry Nelson founded it with a focus on computerized ticketing solutions. Evolving into a global powerhouse, the company merged with Live Nation, creating the largest live event promoter and ticketing operation.
Initially, the company focused on pioneering computerized systems, replacing paper tickets with barcode technology. This innovation boosted efficiency, setting a new industry standard. Throughout its history, it expanded services and partnerships, granting fans unprecedented access to live events.
Its dominance stems from its extensive network of partnerships with venues, artists, promoters, and sports teams, granting it access to a wide range of events globally.
However, Ticketmaster’s dominance sparked controversies. Critics argue that Ticketmaster’s market dominance can limit consumer choice and lead to higher prices for tickets. Accusations of inflating ticket prices and harming consumers persist.
In one famous example, the band Pearl Jam engaged in a highly publicized feud with Ticketmaster in the 1990s. The band was one of many who objected to the company’s huge share of the market, which it said led to inflated prices for fans. It attempted to bypass the company, only to cancel their 1994 tour when they said it was impossible to offer tickets at fair prices or tour without performing in venues with exclusive contracts with the ticketing company.
The company, along with Live Nation, faced antitrust accusations and a Department of Justice consent decree post-merger. That consent decree was extended after a settlement with the DOJ in 2019.
Despite challenges and competition from other ticketing platforms and secondary marketplaces, Ticketmaster continues to maintain a significant presence in the industry, offering a wide array of events and services to millions of fans worldwide.
Denver’s Pepsi Center drops Ticketmaster for its own ticketing venture TicketHorse.com
Tennessee Performing Arts Center ends relationship with Ticketmaster
Former Ticketmaster CEO Fred Rosen explains the origins of the ticketing market
Ticketmaster names Jane Kleinberger to EVP position
Ticketmaster and San Jose’s HP Pavilion extend ticketing deal
Ticketmaster / Live Nation merger: Promoter Seth Hurwitz sues
Broadway’s Spider-Man tickets already on sale on Ticketmaster
Ticketmaster / Live Nation merger: Emanuel could leave Live Nation board
Ticketmaster names Marla Ostroff an executive vice president
Ticketmaster offers refund to some customers for Miley Cyrus floor tickets
Get TicketNews to Your Email Inbox!
By submitting this form, you are consenting to receive marketing emails from: . You can revoke your consent to receive emails at any time by using the SafeUnsubscribe® link, found at the bottom of every email. Emails are serviced by Constant Contact