Venues in the U.K. are experiencing up to 40% no-shows for ticketed gigs, according to a Guardian report, which cites COVID-19 and a lack of commitment from audiences as the reason.

The report speaks to artist manager Graeme Stewart who said people not turning up for ticketed gigs is an “enormous problem.” Parklife festival co-founder Sacha Lord added that it’s happening even for “hot, sold-out shows.

Promoter Will Rolfe noted the knock-on impact this is having on venues due to losing out on money from food and drinks sales, while still having to cover staff costs.

Phil Hutcheon, founder and CEO of ticketing app Dice, said further harm is being caused by fans asking for refunds for rescheduled shows, which is almost 30% of gig-goers. “Each time a show is moved, the person who bought the ticket is a lot less engaged about attending.”

Last week, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson delivered a blow to the live sector by bringing in the requirement for music fans to provide either a negative lateral flow test or proof of vaccination for events that have an audience of more than 500 people. It is now also a legal requirement to wear face masks in public indoor venues. According to The Telegraph, operators will be fined between £500 to £10k for not following the rules.