Ticketmaster reaches $6 million settlement in class-action lawsuit related to pricing practices
Ticketmaster has reached a resolution in a class-action lawsuit concerning deceptive ticket pricing practices, compensating nearly one million Canadians who bought tickets in 2018 for a total of $6 million. The finalization of the $6 million settlement on January 15, 2025, at Regina’s Court of King’s Bench addresses allegations regarding deceptive pricing strategies, particularly “drip pricing,” where unexpected fees were added to ticket prices.
Crystal Watch instigated the lawsuit against Ticketmaster, alleging violations of The Consumer Protection and Business Practices Act. Even though Ticketmaster did not acknowledge any misconduct, the decision to resolve the suit outside of court was made.
Justice Graeme Mitchell, who oversaw the case, highlighted the importance of the settlement by stating, “This case has established a legitimate consumer protection lawsuit that could only be adequately pursued in a class-action format.”
Customers who purchased tickets for Canadian events between January 1 and June 30, 2018, could be eligible to receive up to $45 in credits for future ticket purchases into their Ticketmaster accounts. However, this compensation is subject to specific qualifications, with Quebec residents and current Ticketmaster employees excluded. The credit is transferable but may only be redeemed once.
Lawyer Tony Merchant, who represented the plaintiffs, approximated that around 100,000 individuals in Saskatchewan and roughly one million nationwide could meet the requirements for the credit. Following the deduction of $1.725 million in legal fees, $4.3 million will be designated for customer credits, underscoring the widespread influence of Ticketmaster’s pricing strategies during that period.
Eligible consumers will receive emails detailing the process for claiming their credits. If qualified customers do not receive a notification, they are advised to contact the law firm for guidance.
This lawsuit underscores the importance of transparent ticket pricing, particularly in industries like events and concerts where service fees can complicate matters. While the settlement may not be as substantial as other corporate conflicts, it signifies a considerable advancement in ensuring accountability for unjust practices.
It highlights the role of class-action lawsuits in upholding fairness for consumers and reinforcing the necessity for honest pricing practices to be maintained in the future.
