Keir Starmer blamed as gig costs set to soar once more in new Labour tax seize
Industry bosses have warned that ticket prices for gigs are set to increase again under a new tax plan from the Treasury. Increased business rates could hit punters in the pocket
Gig prices could go up again(Image: getty)
Music fans will be walloped in the wallet as gig prices soar under a Treasury tax grab, industry bosses have warned.
Labour plans to hike business rates on big arenas could send ticket costs rocketing and batter local economies.
The National Arenas Association said the move risks putting £1.85billion of annual economic activity in jeopardy for the sake of a £15million Treasury boost.
The group, which represents 23 UK arenas including the Royal Albert Hall, the O2 and Manchester’s AO, fear higher rates will squeeze venues already running on tight margins.
Its members attracted 14.5 million customers in 2024, generating £1.2bn in direct event spending and another £648m in nearby pubs, restaurants, hotels and transport.
The association said for every £1 spent on tickets, fans splashed £1.62 locally, calling arenas “anchors” for surrounding businesses. Each ticket was linked to “more than £500” in local spending.
Rates are rising as pandemic relief is phased out, with venues now expected to shoulder more costs.
O2 boss Steve Sayer said: “Arena shows generate hundreds of millions of pounds for local economies all over the UK each year.”
And Live chief executive Jon Collins warned venues face rises of up to 400 per cent, risking closures and steep ticket rises.
