When you go to Live Nation’s Web Site, you immediately see “Artist Powered. Fan Driven.”

For a long time, many felt those were hollow words. It’s no secret that pricing for concerts has been getting out of control. A big reason for elevated prices is junk fees. Junk fees are service fees that companies like Live Nation, SeatGeek and more tack on to the purchase, but many times, not until the end. So when making a decision, the customer can’t factor in all costs. This not only drives prices up unexpectedly, but can turn a budgeted expense into something cost-prohibitive. These charges are not exclusive to the concert industry, but can also be found in other arenas such as short term rentals and resorts.

Recently, opposition to these fees hit a fever pitch following costs associated with Taylor Swift’s “Eras” tour.
Earlier this year, President Biden called out junk fees in his State of the Union and called for action to crack down on hidden fees to lower costs for consumers. Today, President Biden convened a meeting of private sector companies who have committed to end surprise fees by fully disclosing fees to consumers upfront. Together, these companies service millions of consumers each year, all of whom will receive a better shopping experience without surprise fees imposed at check-out. The President is announcing actions by several companies in answer to that call. President Biden was joined by representatives from Live Nation, SeatGeek, xBk, Airbnb, the Pablo Center at the Confluence, TickPick, DICE, and the Newport Festivals Foundation — companies large and small that currently provide all-in pricing or are announcing a new commitment to do so in the coming months.

While all of the companies have promised to be more transparent about fees from the beginning of a purchase, they have not outright pledged to scrap them completely. Even though this may not make the experience cheaper, it still is a step in the right direction, making it easier to browse for tickets and find a truer price.