LOS ANGELES (CelebrityAccess MediaWire) — AEG is set to launch axs (pronounced Access), a ticketing and digital content delivery platform built in partnership with Outbox Enterprises.
axs will be available both on the net at axs.com as well as on all mobile platforms with an integration to Facebook and Twitter. AEG claims that axs will be upfront about fees and notes that the venues are not charging extra fees for print-at-home tickets purchased trhough axs' 'buy direct' platform. Additional elements will include a mobile service launching later this year and a video content service that is currently under development.
Outbox is helmed by Fred Rosen, who previously served as Ticketmaster's CEO from 1982 to 1998 and played a central role in shaping the company's strategy of acting as a central clearing house for event tickets. Outbox has a different model, creating instead, a brandable, or 'white label' software platform that lets venues set their own fees, a portion of which flows to Outbox. AEG hopes that Outbox’s open, white-label platform will enable axs to form distribution partnerships in local markets with independent venues.
The first shows available for purchase on the new service are in Denver, Colo., at the Ogden Theatre and the Bluebird Theater, both venues operated by AEG. Nine shows will be going on sale Saturday, August 27 at 10 am MT. After the initial service debuts, all new on-sales at these theaters will be through axs as well as the websites of the specific local venues. Denver represents the initial step in the migration of AEG owned or operated venues to the new platform.
Following the Denver rollout, axs will be introduced in other markets in North America and internationally, including San Francisco at the The Warfield and The Regency Ballroom, as well as sales for larger venues and AEG’s sports teams, which have more complex ticketing options, through 2012.
"The creation of the axs platform will allow us to provide a more complete experience for both our consumers and our brand partners. It marks a strategic move forward for our company – one that allows us to pursue new ways to connect with consumers and the new business models that come with that," said AEG's Tim Leiweke. "Ticketing is a natural first phase as it’s the starting point for the live event experience for consumers. We’re excited about the future."
Check them out online at: axs.com – CelebrityAccess Staff Writers
