Free goods used to boost concert sales

WASHINGTON, May 2 (UPI) -- A music industry official says free goods are being offered with the purchases of U.S. concert tickets to help boost overall ticket sales.

Jason Garner, Live Nation's chief executive officer of global music, said with the nation's economy in a recession, music industry officials are turning to promotional campaigns focused on free items and ticket discounts, The Washington Post reported online Saturday.

"Every one of us gets up in the morning seeing the same reports on CNBC about how crappy the economy is," Garner said. "The world is in an economic crisis; we have to make sure we're adding value to the fan experience."

Among the promotions being offered are free music downloads with top ticket purchases to No Doubt's spring-summer tour and discounted Vans Warped Tour pre-sale tickets.

The Post said organizers of music events such as the Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival or the Rothbury Festival are offering customers layaway plans that allow them to purchase tickets now for the multiday festivals and then pay later.