The Birmingham-based company has enjoyed meteoric growth in three years, evolving from The NEC Group’s venue box office to acquiring major national ticketing contracts including Haymarket exhibitions and the Chelsea Flower Show, selling two million tickets a year.

Winning the operation of Bookings Direct means The Ticket Factory is now the national ticket agent for 3A Entertainment’s iconic artists, with current tours including Kylie, Eric Clapton, Boyzone, Van Morrison, Roger Waters - The Wall, Paul Weller, WWE and the X Factor.

Artists signed to 3A will benefit from The Ticket Factory’s vast and impressive customer database, with an all encompassing range of events, from gigs and music festivals to ballet and championship boxing, alongside events at the LG Arena, The NIA and The NEC.

Phil Mead, Managing Director of The NEC Group’s Arenas Division and The Ticket Factory said: “Winning the operation of Bookings Direct recognises The Ticket Factory’s prominent position in the UK ticketing market. The Ticket Factory is an independent organisation focused on delivering excellent customer service with a 24/7 service, offering customers first class service to world class events.

“Adding all 3A-promoted events nationwide to our portfolio ensures we are selling the hottest tickets and what the UK public want,” added Phil Mead.

Pete Wilson, Managing Director and Founding Partner of 3A Entertainment commented: “We have been the top UK independent ranked promoter in Pollstar for 8 out of the last 10 years and leading European ranked promoter for 6 years, so we are well versed in maximising and creating an aura around the sale of tickets for our Iconic artists. For us it is not just about selling the ticket but ensuring the customer has a pleasant experience. TTF brought all that to us as well as opening up our treasured acts to a new vibrant market.

“We believe that the TTF will become the preferred source for the artist's who have an empathy with their fan base to sell not only tickets but all aspects of the artists’ content,” added Pete Wilson.

General Manager for The Ticket Factory, Will Quekett said:

“The Ticket Factory has worked hard to establish itself as a national ticket agency in three short years. With our exceptional database analysis and electronic marketing support, dedicated staff and good reputation in the market, The Ticket Factory is fast becoming the national ticket agency of choice for our customers.”