What Is Viagogo? How It Works, Benefits & Risks

Introduction to Viagogo

Viagogo is a prominent online ticket marketplace where users can buy and sell tickets for a wide range of events. Founded in 2006 by Eric Baker, Viagogo has grown to become one of the largest platforms for ticket reselling. The service caters to a global audience, providing access to tickets for concerts, sports, theater, and other live entertainment events.

How Viagogo Works

Ticket Buying Process

Buying tickets on Viagogo is straightforward. Users start by searching for the event they are interested in. The platform then displays available tickets from various sellers, allowing buyers to choose based on their preferences for price and seat location. Once a selection is made, users can purchase tickets using different payment methods, including credit cards and PayPal. After the purchase, tickets are delivered electronically or via physical mail, depending on the seller and the event.

Ticket Selling Process

Selling tickets on Viagogo involves a few simple steps:

Create an Account: Sellers need to register on the platform.
List Tickets: Users can list their tickets for sale, setting their own prices.
Confirm Sales: When a ticket is sold, the seller confirms the sale and arranges for ticket delivery.
Receive Payment: Sellers receive payment once the event has taken place and the buyer has successfully attended.

Key Features of Viagogo

Global Reach

Viagogo operates in multiple countries, providing localized websites in various languages. This extensive reach allows users from different regions to buy and sell tickets conveniently.

Wide Range of Events

The platform offers tickets for a diverse array of events, including concerts, sports, theater, and festivals. This variety ensures that users can find tickets for almost any type of live entertainment.

Mobile Accessibility

Viagogo’s platform is accessible via desktop and mobile devices, allowing users to browse and purchase tickets on the go.

Fan Protection Guarantee

Viagogo provides a Fan Protection Guarantee, which promises a full refund or replacement tickets if there are any issues with the tickets purchased. This guarantee is designed to protect buyers from fraudulent sellers and invalid tickets.

Pros and Cons of Using Viagogo

Advantages

Access to Sold-Out Events: Viagogo often has tickets available for events that are sold out at primary sources.
Multiple Payment Options: The platform accepts various payment methods, making transactions convenient for users.
User-Friendly Interface: The website and mobile app are designed to be easy to navigate, enhancing the user experience.
Opportunity for Sellers: Fans with extra or unwanted tickets can sell them on Viagogo, potentially recouping their costs.

Disadvantages

High Fees and Hidden Charges: Viagogo is known for its high booking fees, which can significantly increase the final ticket price. Additionally, hidden fees may appear during the checkout process.
Risk of Invalid Tickets: Despite the Fan Protection Guarantee, there have been instances of buyers receiving invalid or fraudulent tickets.
Controversial Practices: The platform has faced criticism for enabling ticket scalping and price inflation, which can make tickets unaffordable for many fans.

Common Issues and Controversies

Fraudulent Tickets

There have been numerous reports of buyers receiving invalid tickets or encountering difficulties in getting refunds. These issues can result in significant frustration and financial loss for users.

Legal Issues

Viagogo has faced legal challenges and fines in various countries due to misleading advertising and unfair business practices. These legal battles have raised concerns about the platform’s reliability and transparency.

Price Gouging

Sellers on Viagogo can list tickets at prices much higher than their original face value. This practice, known as price gouging, often results in inflated ticket prices that are out of reach for many fans.

Tips for Using Viagogo Safely

Buy Early

To avoid overpaying, it’s advisable to purchase tickets well in advance of the event. Last-minute buyers often face higher prices due to limited availability.

Check Seller Details

When buying tickets, look for verified sellers with positive reviews. This can help ensure that you receive valid tickets and have a smooth transaction experience.

Be Aware of Fees

Review all fees before finalizing your purchase. Viagogo’s booking fees and hidden charges can add a substantial amount to the ticket price, so it’s important to be aware of the total cost.

Understand the Guarantee

Familiarize yourself with the terms of the Fan Protection Guarantee. Knowing what is covered can help you take appropriate action if there are any issues with your tickets.

Comparisons to Other Ticket Marketplaces

Viagogo vs. StubHub

Similarities:

Both platforms offer a secondary marketplace for buying and selling tickets.
Each provides a guarantee to protect buyers from fraud.
Both have a global reach and cater to a wide range of events.

Differences:

User Experience: Viagogo’s interface has been criticized for being less user-friendly compared to StubHub.
Fee Structures: StubHub tends to have more transparent fee structures, while Viagogo is known for hidden charges.
Customer Support: StubHub generally receives better reviews for customer support, whereas Viagogo has faced criticism in this area.

Viagogo’s Impact on the Ticket Industry

Market Influence

Viagogo has significantly impacted the ticket resale market by providing a platform where tickets for sold-out events can still be purchased. This has changed how consumers approach buying tickets, often turning to secondary markets when primary sources are sold out.

Consumer Behavior

The availability of tickets on platforms like Viagogo has influenced consumer behavior, with more people willing to pay higher prices for guaranteed access to popular events. This shift has also led to an increase in the number of people willing to sell tickets they can’t use, knowing they can potentially profit from the resale.

Industry Practices

Viagogo’s operations have prompted discussions about the need for stricter regulations in the ticket resale industry. Issues such as price gouging, fraudulent tickets, and hidden fees have led to calls for more transparency and consumer protection measures.

Future of Viagogo

Expansion Plans

Viagogo is continually looking to expand its reach into new markets and enhance its services. This includes improving its website and mobile app functionality, as well as expanding its event offerings.

Technological Advancements

The platform is expected to implement better security measures and user interface improvements to enhance the overall user experience. These advancements aim to reduce instances of fraud and make the buying and selling process smoother.

Regulatory Challenges

As Viagogo continues to grow, it will need to navigate an evolving regulatory landscape. Compliance with global ticket resale laws will be crucial to maintaining its operations and reputation.

Key Takeaways

Viagogo provides a convenient platform for buying and selling event tickets, offering access to a wide range of live entertainment. While the service has notable advantages, such as access to sold-out events and a user-friendly interface, it also comes with significant risks, including high fees and potential for fraudulent tickets. By understanding these factors and using the platform wisely, consumers can make informed decisions and enjoy their favorite events without unnecessary hassle.

In summary, Viagogo plays a crucial role in the ticket resale market, shaping consumer behavior and industry practices. As it continues to evolve, users should stay informed about its features, benefits, and potential pitfalls to make the most of their experience.