Keeping Live Music Alive in '25: A Transparent Look at Touring Costs
Unveiling the Real Costs of Music & Entertainment Touring Logistics
With over 40 years in the Music & Entertainment industry, I have witnessed the ever-evolving complexities of touring logistics firsthand. Recently, I undertook extensive covert market research beyond my current global network of trusted service providers and vendors. My goal? To gain a fresh perspective on how less experienced or lesser-known tour managers navigate the intricate world of tour management & logistics. What I uncovered shines light on why touring costs—and consequently ticket prices—are so high, and why this might be contributing to the challenges faced by “Young Guns” in the industry.
The Research Approach
To gain authentic insights, I approached this research as a “cold” contact. Using a false name and a fabricated tour, I reached out to various providers that I am not currently associated with across sectors including:
Trucks, Buses, and Freight
Private Jets
Gear & Splitter Vans
Tour Management Services
Production AV and SFX
Backline Equipment
Carnets & Customs Documentation
Spatial Web Services
I posed as an inexperienced tour manager seeking options for a fictional project, and what unfolded was both enlightening and troubling.
The Findings: The "Discount" Illusion
Time and again, I was offered what vendors described as “discounted” rates. However, it didn’t take long to discover that these so-called “deals” were, in fact, inflated by 15% to 20% compared to the rates I’d offer through my established network. This pricing disparity isn’t just about higher costs; it’s indicative of a system that penalises the less experienced and rewards insider connections. Here’s how:
Lack of Transparency: Many service providers operate on opaque pricing models, making it difficult for newcomers to discern fair rates.
Reliance on Word-of-Mouth: For young or inexperienced tour managers, the go-to strategy is often Google searches, shout-outs on various social media platforms or word-of-mouth referrals. This leaves them vulnerable to vendors who exploit their lack of industry knowledge.
Hidden Margins: Vendors leverage the illusion of discounts to create a perception of value, masking substantial markups that inflate costs unnecessarily.
Why This Matters
These inflated costs inevitably trickle down to fans in the form of higher ticket prices. Additionally, they create barriers for emerging talent, both on and off the stage. When lesser-known artists or inexperienced tour managers face higher costs, it’s harder for them to compete in an already cut-throat industry.
This scenario underscores the importance of expertise and established networks in delivering fair pricing. It also highlights the need for greater transparency and accountability across the touring & logistics sectors.
Your "One Call Gets It All"
In contrast to the fragmented and often overpriced options offered elsewhere, my "One Call Gets It All" service has proven to be a far more efficient solution for tour logistics. By offering comprehensive "Bundles" or "Complete" Tour Packages, I streamline the entire process, potentially saving both time and money for clients. These packages cover everything from transport (trucks, buses, freight, and private jets) to production elements (AV, SFX, and backline) and even administrative necessities like carnets and customs documentation.
This service isn’t limited to Music & Entertainment Touring. I also provide similar solutions tailored to the needs of Theatre, TV, Movie, and Motorsport clients. Whether it’s a theatrical production, a film shoot, or motorsport event logistics, my approach ensures seamless coordination and cost-effective delivery.
This approach not only simplifies everything but also ensures transparent, competitive pricing without hidden markups. It’s a model designed to deliver maximum value, whether you’re managing a small club tour, a theatrical production, or a large-scale arena event.
My Commitment to Fairness
As someone deeply committed to supporting the world of Music & Entertainment Touring, I take immense pride in offering the very best services at genuinely competitive rates. My extensive global network, built over decades, allows me to:
Negotiate fair and transparent pricing.
Deliver cost-effective solutions without compromising quality.
Help clients navigate the logistical minefield with confidence and clarity.
This research has only reinforced my dedication to ensuring that my services remain accessible, reliable, and fair. For young tour managers, lesser-known artists, or clients in Theatre, TV, Movie, or Motorsport industries, I’m here to be a trusted partner—one who prioritises value and transparency over profits.
Moving Forward
The findings from this research serve as both a wake-up call and an opportunity. As an industry, we must address the systemic issues that drive up costs and create inequities. By fostering a culture of fairness and collaboration, we can ensure that touring and logistics remain viable for artists, productions, and fans alike.
If you’re a tour manager—whether seasoned or just starting out—or a client in Theatre, TV, Movie, or Motorsport, I invite you to connect. Together, we can build an experience that’s not only memorable but also fair and sustainable for everyone involved.