Concert tickets can be hard to come by, especially for popular shows. Enter Viagogo, a ticket resale platform that’s stirred up quite a buzz in the music world. Viagogo operates as a legitimate business, but its practices have raised eyebrows and sparked debates about fairness in the ticket resale market. This post digs into the nitty-gritty of Viagogo’s legitimacy, exploring both the good and the not-so-good aspects of using this platform for your next concert experience.
What is Viagogo?
Viagogo burst onto the scene in 2006, founded by Eric Baker and Brent Hoberman in London. It’s grown into a global player, operating in over 90 countries. But what exactly does Viagogo do?
Brief history and background
Viagogo’s story is one of rapid growth and controversy. Eric Baker, a Harvard Business School grad, co-founded StubHub before starting Viagogo. In a twist of fate, Viagogo acquired StubHub in 2020, creating a ticketing resale giant.
How Viagogo works
Think of Viagogo as the eBay of concert tickets. Anyone can list tickets for sale, and buyers can search for specific events or browse what’s available nearby. Viagogo makes its money through service fees and commissions on sales, taking a slice of each transaction.
The Legitimacy Question: Is Viagogo a Trustworthy Platform?
When asking “Is Viagogo legit for concert tickets?”, it’s crucial to look at the company’s legal status and protections for buyers.
Legal status and operations
Viagogo is a registered company operating within the bounds of the law in most countries. However, it’s faced legal challenges and regulatory scrutiny in some regions due to its business practices. The company has had to adapt to comply with various countries’ regulations on ticket reselling.
Viagogo’s guarantee and buyer protection
Viagogo offers a “100% Buyer Guarantee,” promising that you’ll receive valid tickets in time for the event or get your money back. This sounds reassuring, but it’s important to read the fine print. The guarantee doesn’t cover all situations, and some users have reported difficulties when seeking refunds.
Pros of Using Viagogo for Concert Tickets
Viagogo isn’t all controversy – there are reasons why people turn to the platform for their concert needs.
Wide selection of tickets
One of Viagogo’s strongest selling points is its vast inventory. You might find tickets for sold-out shows or better seats than what was initially available through official channels.
Potential for last-minute purchases
Missed the official sale? Viagogo can be a lifesaver for last-minute ticket hunters. Some sellers list their tickets close to the event date, giving procrastinators a shot at attending.
International availability
Viagogo’s global reach is a boon for international concert-goers. It’s often easier to buy tickets through Viagogo for events in other countries than through local ticketing systems.
Cons and Controversies Surrounding Viagogo
Despite its benefits, Viagogo has faced its fair share of criticism and controversy.
Inflated ticket prices
One of the biggest gripes about Viagogo is sky-high prices. In 2023, Taylor Swift fans were outraged to see Eras Tour tickets listed for up to £6,500 – many times the original price. Viagogo allows sellers to set their own prices, which can lead to eye-watering markups.
Issues with ticket authenticity
While Viagogo claims to verify tickets, some buyers have been turned away at venue doors. In January 2023, fans with Viagogo-purchased tickets were denied entry to a Ricky Gervais comedy show in York, highlighting the risks involved.
Customer service complaints
Many users report frustrations when dealing with Viagogo’s customer service. Responses can be slow, and resolving issues isn’t always straightforward. This becomes especially problematic when time-sensitive events are involved.
Viagogo vs. Other Ticket Resale Platforms
How does Viagogo stack up against the competition? Let’s compare.
Comparison with StubHub
Viagogo and StubHub, now under the same ownership, operate similarly. Both face similar criticisms about pricing and authenticity issues. However, StubHub often has a stronger reputation in the US market.
How Viagogo stacks up against official ticket sellers
Official sellers typically offer face-value tickets and have direct relationships with venues and artists. Viagogo can’t guarantee face-value prices, and its tickets may not always be accepted by venues that prohibit resale.
Tips for Safely Buying Concert Tickets on Viagogo
If you decide to use Viagogo, here are some ways to protect yourself:
Verifying ticket authenticity
Always check the seller’s rating and reviews. Look for detailed seat information and compare it with the venue’s seating chart. If something seems off, trust your gut and look elsewhere.
Understanding pricing and fees
Viagogo’s fees can be substantial. Always click through to the final checkout page to see the total price, including all fees. Compare this with face value and other resale options to ensure you’re getting a fair deal.
Reading seller reviews and ratings
Pay close attention to seller feedback. Experienced sellers with positive reviews are generally safer bets. Be wary of new sellers or those with mixed feedback.
What Concert-Goers Should Know About Viagogo’s Policies
Before buying, familiarize yourself with Viagogo’s rules and procedures.
Refund and cancellation policies
Viagogo’s refund policy can be strict. Typically, you’re only eligible for a refund if the event is canceled, not postponed. Always read the policy details before purchasing.
Delivery methods and timelines
Ticket delivery varies. Some are available for immediate download, while others might not be released until just before the event. Check the delivery timeline to ensure it works with your plans.
The Concert Industry’s Stance on Viagogo
Viagogo’s relationship with the music industry is… complicated.
Artist and promoter perspectives
Many artists and promoters are openly critical of Viagogo and similar resale platforms. They argue that these sites enable scalping and drive up prices for fans.
Efforts to combat ticket reselling
Some artists have implemented strict anti-resale measures, like personalized tickets or staggered sales. Venues may require the original buyer’s ID, potentially causing issues for Viagogo customers.
Alternatives to Viagogo for Buying Concert Tickets
Don’t put all your eggs in the Viagogo basket. Consider these alternatives:
Official ticket sellers
Always check the official venue or artist websites first. You’ll often find the best prices and guaranteed authenticity here.
Fan-to-fan ticket exchange platforms
Sites like Twickets cap resale prices at face value, offering a more ethical alternative to open-market reselling.
The Future of Ticket Reselling and Viagogo’s Role
The ticket resale landscape is evolving. Where does Viagogo fit in?
Emerging technologies in ticket sales
Blockchain and NFT technology are being explored to create more secure, verifiable tickets. This could impact how resale platforms like Viagogo operate.
Potential regulatory changes
Governments worldwide are eyeing stricter regulations on ticket reselling. These changes could significantly affect Viagogo’s business model and practices.
Making an Informed Decision About Using Viagogo for Concert Tickets
So, is Viagogo legit for concert tickets? The answer isn’t black and white. Viagogo operates legally in most countries and provides a platform for buying and selling tickets. However, its practices have drawn criticism and carry risks for buyers.
If you’re considering using Viagogo:
- Exhaust official channels first
- Compare prices across multiple platforms
- Read all policies carefully
- Check seller ratings and reviews
- Be prepared for potential issues
Remember, the cheapest option isn’t always the safest. Weigh the potential savings against the risks and decide what’s best for your situation. With careful consideration and a healthy dose of skepticism, you can navigate the world of ticket reselling – whether through Viagogo or other platforms – and hopefully land those dream concert tickets without a hitch.
Stay informed, stay cautious, and rock on!
