zePASS

About zePASS

zePASS operated as a peer-to-peer online marketplace based in France, specializing in the resale of tickets for a wide array of events. The platform was established in December 2002 by Quentin Schaepelynck, who leveraged a background in marketing and finance to address the growing need for a secure secondary ticketing service. The company was founded in Lyon and provided a consumer-to-consumer solution for individuals looking to buy or sell tickets they could no longer use.

The business model centered on acting as a trusted third-party intermediary, a crucial function in a market prone to fraud. For individuals wanting to sell a ticket—be it for a concert, sporting event, train journey, or theme park—zePASS offered a platform to list their item. When a buyer committed to a purchase, the platform secured the payment. This payment was held in escrow and only released to the seller once the buyer had successfully received and used the ticket, thereby ensuring the legitimacy of the transaction for both parties. The service was free for sellers, while buyers were charged a processing fee upon purchase, which constituted the company's primary revenue stream.

The platform's scope was comprehensive, covering everything from music and theater to sports and travel, with the notable exception of airline tickets. This multi-category approach distinguished it from more niche resale sites. A key milestone in the company's journey was its acquisition in 2012 by the Digitick Group, a major player in electronic ticketing. Following the acquisition, Schaepelynck transitioned into a leadership role at Digitick as Deputy CEO, demonstrating the strategic value of the platform he had built.

However, the platform eventually ceased operations. Reports suggest that a combination of financial difficulties, intense competition within the online ticketing space, and evolving regulatory landscapes contributed to its closure.