Ticketmaster
Event ticketing platform providing ticket sales and distribution services for concerts and events.
PE-OWNED
Acquired by KKR2008-02-01
What Made It Great
Dominant event ticketing platform with extensive venue partnerships
What PE Will Likely Do
Ticket prices will increase across Ticketmaster's platform as the company looks to offset costs and boost profit margins.
Ticketmaster's customer service and responsiveness will likely decline as the company lays off support staff to cut costs.
The quality and reliability of Ticketmaster's ticketing platform and website will degrade as IT infrastructure investments are reduced.
Ticketmaster will likely reduce or eliminate its investment in innovative ticketing technologies and features as the PE firm focuses on cost-cutting.
Expected Timeline
“0 to 6 months months”
Acquisition announced, promises of 'investment' in Ticketmaster, but first round of layoffs and 'restructuring' also announced.
“6 to 12 months months”
Ticket prices start to rise, customer complaints about poor service and platform issues increase, new feature development stalls.
“12 to 24 months months”
Ticketmaster's market dominance and consumer trust begin to erode as the quality of its core ticketing services declines, leading to increased consumer dissatisfaction.
Similar Cases
Other companies that followed a similar path after PE acquisition
What You Can Do
Actions
Be prepared for potential ticket price increases and reduced customer service quality when purchasing tickets through Ticketmaster.
Consider exploring alternative ticketing platforms or event venues that may offer more reliable and consumer-friendly services.
Voice concerns and feedback to Ticketmaster and event organizers about any noticeable decline in the quality of the ticketing experience.
Alternatives
Look for family-owned or employee-owned businesses