Ticketmaster UK is now giving refunds but there's a catch

After significant outcry, Ticketmaster UK have amended their refund policies regarding events being affected by the coronavirus pandemic. Originally, the ticket broker was offering complete refunds for canceled events. But if the festival was postponed or rescheduled to another date, the company would only offer holders the chance to resell their tickets through their platform.

The company announced today to NME that they are now offering full restitution. If ticketholders “cannot attend the new date, they are entitled to a refund.” Customers were fuming about Ticketmaster UK over the original policy until the change was made public earlier today.

Read more: Goldenvoice postpones all events indefinitely due to coronavirus pandemic 

European festival culture is a massive business. Losses from the cancellation of festivals and live music events in the UK are hovering around $76 million. British festivals as Download, Parklife, Glastonbury, Primavera Sound, Isle Of Wight and All Points East have been forced to completely cancel or push for later in the year.

Industry professionals in both the entertainment sector and the medical community are still contemplating the return of massive gatherings. Doctors and pandemic specialists aren’t sure that the world will be returning to normal life to accommodate such activities. On the logistical side, rescheduling multiple massive events on the same weekends puts a strain on everyone.  And of course, with record unemployment in many countries, actually having the finances to make a destination festival is questionable. The pandemic has caused a domino effect of worries for the industry.

It was reported yesterday that Michael Rapino, the CEO of concert promoting firm Live Nation, was completely foregoing his salary this year. Other executives at the company are taking pay cuts, as well. The actions show respect for the company’s employees. It also leaves a lingering doubt as to when we’ll be able to see live music again.