Buying tickets online

MANILA, Philippines - SM recently launched SM Tickets, a new, convenient way of reserving and buying tickets for concerts, special events, even promos. It works like this. First, log on to www.smtickets.com, the SM Tickets website. You’ll be asked to choose between getting an SMS (eTicket) or printing the e-mail verification.

“Those who choose the eTicket method can just bring their mobile phone with the required SMS in it and claim their ticket at the venue,” says Henry Lapis, SM Tickets Business Unit head.

What if you’re not sure about your schedule but would like to reserve a ticket just the same?

“You can do that,” says Lapis. “Just choose your preferred seat or ticket price, enter your name and professional information and your ticket will be reserved for you for three days.”

He adds that If you change your mind about buying the ticket, you may cancel the reservation.

“If you opt to buy the ticket, just click on the payment button and enter your credit card number. You will then be asked if you want to redeem your ticket through your mobile phone or by printing it out and claiming it at your nearest SM mall.”

What if you left your phone at home or in the office?

“No problem,” Lapis replies. “Just approach any SM staff and we will take care of it.”

They will check their records in laptops the staff carry around with them.

Those who prefer a printed e-mail verification, on the other hand, can just let Bcode machines located at the venue print the tickets instantly.

You may even give the eTickets as birthday present to your son or daughter without leaving your house and dealing with heavy traffic along the way. Just pass the eTicket to her or him so they may claim and use it in your stead.

In return, Lapis promises a whole lineup of perks found in all 40 SM malls (with more coming): Videowall, LCD TV exposure, cinema ads in-between film screenings, posters on escalator ledges where mall traffic is heavy, movie guide placements (daily in The Philippine Star), ticket booth wrap, chrome stickers, vertical banners and button pins.

Will SM Tickets also refund customers if the show doesn’t push through due to a calamity or some other unforeseen reason?

“Yes, we can,” replies Lapis.

And while he’s building up the brand, Lapis revealed plans of promoting a package of perks for SM Tickets clients who will watch shows in Arena, a gigantic show venue to rise at SM MOA in May 2012.

“Those who buy tickets are assured of parking space. We are reserving an entire floor in the car park building for this,” he promises.