Dice CEO Phil Hutcheon on a Decade of Fighting Dynamic Pricing in the Ticketing Industry and Why the Mid-Market Is Their 'Superpower'

The Founding Mission of Dice

Dice was founded with a clear mission to create a more accessible and fan-friendly ticketing experience, in direct response to issues like scalping and dynamic pricing in the live events market. Phil Hutchin, the CEO, became aware of these challenges during his time in the music industry, where he witnessed ticket prices skyrocketing beyond their original value due to hidden fees. This prompted him to develop a platform that prioritizes transparency and integrity, where fans can buy tickets at an upfront price without facing unexpected hikes. Since its inception in 2014, Dice has focused on building a local community around live events while expanding its reach into various cities, cementing its dedication to its founding principles.

Innovative Features Enhancing Fan Engagement

Dice has introduced several innovative features to enhance the live event experience and foster community among fans. The app not only allows users to discover new events but also offers a unique waiting list feature, enabling fans to claim tickets that become available due to cancellations, thereby minimizing the disappointment often associated with sold-out shows. Moreover, Dice integrates with other platforms like Spotify to provide personalized recommendations, helping users connect with concerts and events aligned with their musical tastes. The emphasis on community is further reflected in social features that allow fans to share and discuss upcoming events with friends, transforming ticket buying into a social experience.

Empowering Artists Through Data and Insights

Dice plays a crucial role in supporting artists by providing data-driven insights that help them optimize their live events. The platform analyzes ticket sales and audience demographics, allowing artists to make informed decisions about venue sizes and pricing strategies, ensuring that shows are both economically viable and accessible to fans. This emphasis on data helps prevent common pitfalls, such as underestimating demand or overpricing tickets, which can alienate fans. Additionally, Dice assists artists by facilitating merchandise sales and offering unique experiences that enhance fan engagement, thereby providing artists with the tools they need to succeed within the competitive landscape of live entertainment.

The Future of Ticketing and Community Building

Looking ahead, Dice aims to continue its trajectory of growth while reinforcing its commitment to community and accessibility in the ticketing industry. With plans to expand geographically and further develop its community features, the platform seeks to unite fans around their shared love for music, fostering connections that transcend conventional social media interactions. The desire to empower artists through transparent pricing and unique merchandise opportunities reflects Dice's goal of creating a more equitable marketplace. By embracing technological advancements and nurturing community engagement, Dice positions itself for a transformative impact on the future of live events, ensuring memorable experiences for both artists and fans.

Strictly Business

Dice CEO Phil Hutcheon on a Decade of Fighting Dynamic Pricing in the Ticketing Industry and Why the Mid-Market Is Their 'Superpower'

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Quick takeaways

Deep dives

The Founding Mission of Dice

Innovative Features Enhancing Fan Engagement

Empowering Artists Through Data and Insights

The Future of Ticketing and Community Building

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