Road signs for 500 euros with bands and used bracelets for 100 euros: Vinted sells the "cimeli" of Ultimo's concert record, but the Prosecutor's Office is investigating

On July 4, over 250,000 fans gathered at Tor Vergata in Rome for a concert by Italian pop singer Ultimo. The event, described as a record-breaking performance, drew massive crowds and became a focal point for both music lovers and opportunists. In the days following the concert, a new market emerged online, with items used during the event selling for hundreds of euros on platforms such as Vinted. Among these items were street signs made of plastic with QR codes directing pedestrians to the metro, branded t-shirts worn by staff members, and wristbands used to access VIP areas, all being sold as collectibles. The resale market quickly took off, with some items fetching up to 500 euros. A street sign with a QR code was listed for 500 euros, while a branded t-shirt featuring the word “crew” on the back went for 150 euros. Wristbands, which had been distributed to attendees for entry into exclusive zones, were priced as high as 45 euros. For those with more modest budgets, a map of the venue, printed on paper, visibly creased and possibly damp from sweat, was offered for just 2 euros by user francyroma123. This secondary market has raised concerns among authorities. The Public Prosecutor’s office has launched an investigation into whether the sale of these items constitutes illegal activity. While some sellers argue they are simply capitalizing on demand, others fear that unauthorized sales could lead to counterfeit goods or fraud. The police have confirmed that they are monitoring the situation closely, particularly regarding the authenticity of the merchandise and potential violations of intellectual property laws. The concert itself was organized by a team of logistics experts who managed the flow of thousands of fans through carefully planned routes. Street signs, wristbands, and other materials were essential tools for ensuring safety and order. However, after the event, many of these items were left behind or discarded, creating an opportunity for individuals to repurpose them. Some vendors on Vinted claim they found the items in public spaces or collected them from the crowd, while others admit to purchasing them directly from attendees. The trend reflects a broader phenomenon seen at large-scale events worldwide, where fans often seek unique souvenirs beyond official merchandise. This includes everything from autographs to memorabilia. In this case, the items sold on Vinted are not traditional souvenirs but rather functional objects used during the event. Their value stems from their association with the concert and the experience they represent. The legal implications remain unclear. While there is no explicit law against selling second-hand items, the sale of branded merchandise without authorization can fall under trademark infringement. The Public Prosecutor’s office is currently examining whether the organizers of the event have given permission for the resale of these items. If not, the sellers could face penalties ranging from fines to criminal charges. As the investigation continues, the debate over the ethics of reselling event-related items is likely to intensify. Meanwhile, the market on Vinted shows no signs of slowing down. New listings continue to appear daily, with prices fluctuating based on demand. Some users have already begun offering additional services, such as shipping or authentication, to increase trust in their products. Others are exploring ways to expand their offerings, including vintage tickets or backstage passes.