Ticketmaster announced on Wednesday (24 July) that the company is expanding its presence in Africa with the acquisition of Quicket, described in a press release as “a major player in Africa's general admission event and festival ticketing”.
Founded in South Africa in 2011, Quicket is known for its self-service platform and event management tools. The company has since expanded beyond the country to Nigeria, Uganda, Kenya, Zambia and Botswana.
“Africa is home to some of the most passionate fans in the world, who we are privileged to connect with the events they love, simply and securely,” said the Ticketmaster chairman. Mark Jovitz in a statement. “Our commitment to providing leading tools for promoters, venues and artists is unwavering. Partnering with Quicket will further our mission to bring Africa's dynamic live events to the global spotlight they truly deserve. Together, we are sparking a new era of unparalleled growth for African entertainment.”
Ticketmaster began operations on the continent in 2022 when it opened an office in Capetown, South Africa.
With the acquisition, Ticketmaster says African venues, artists and promoters will benefit from Ticketmaster's global reach, working with Quicket's regional expertise. The ticketing giant adds that the deal will enable the expansion of digital technologies, including secure encrypted mobile ticketing, on the continent.
Under the leadership of Quicket MD James Taggthe company will continue to operate as a standalone business unit from Cape Town.
“A passion for live entertainment is at the heart of African culture,” Tagg said in a statement. “For the past 13 years, we have enabled event creators across the continent to deliver exceptional experiences through our ticketing platform. The partnership with Ticketmaster marks a watershed moment in connecting African artists with a global audience and enhancing the experience for local fans and supporters.”
