StubHub UK has been ordered to refund over 50,000 customers after failing to display total costs upfront. The Competition and Markets Authority found the platform violated rules against drip pricing, a practice where extra charges appear only at checkout. Affected buyers will receive an average of £10 back per transaction, while the company faces a £900,000 fine. StubHub International attributes the hidden fees to an isolated platform error rather than intentional deception. They state the issue has been corrected and refunds are being issued automatically.
This ruling reinforces the legal stance that consumers must see the final price before purchasing. The CMA emphasises that drawing people in with lower initial figures while adding unavoidable fees later is illegal. This case follows a wider review of online pricing practices across multiple firms. The decision highlights ongoing scrutiny of ticket resale models, especially after high-profile events like the Oasis reunion exposed inflated dynamic pricing. It also contrasts with new initiatives like Tickets9, which aims to offer ethical alternatives to current market conditions.
- The fine totals £900,000.
- Refunds average £10 per transaction.
- Drip pricing was banned last year.
