The Society of Ticket Agents and Retailers is a self regulatory body that operates within guidelines supported by, amongst others, VisitBritain, VisitLondon and the Society of London Theatre. Members of STAR are required to comply with a code of practice which states that they:

• Clearly identify the face value of any tickets purchased and any additional booking fees;
• Highlight and terms and conditions, including transferability, cancellation and viewing restrictions; and
• Handle bookings in a polite and courteous manner, giving the highest standards of professional service.

STAR is currently undertaking a two year process so that its code of practice is approved as a nationally approved standard.

The body that prepares guidelines for the Advertising Standards Authority, recently announced a new advice note that states that any extra charge in addition to the face value of a ticket must be clearly stated in any adverts. The position is more complicated where an advert refers to a variety of methods of purchasing a ticket, where prices might be different for postal, telephone and on-line bookings.

It is worthwhile checking all print material complies with these codes. Even if you are under no obligation to meet with these requirements, they are a good indication of current industry best practice.

References:
STAR, PO Box 43, London, WC2H 7LD
info@s-t-a-r.org.uk
0870 603 9011
www.s-t-a-r.org.uk

Committee for Advertising Practice (CAP)
www.cap.org.uk