Ticketus has recently found itself in the media spotlight over its involvement with the administration hit Glasgow Rangers FC. But little is known about the venture capital-backed firm or its business model, which has been used by other football clubs including Manchester United.

A spokesman for Ticketus - which counts UK venture capital firm Octopus Investments as a significant shareholder - was keen to clarify that the firm did not act as a creditor, but as an owner. It buys future season tickets from an institution, such as a football club, for a discount to face value and then when the tickets are later sold the company makes its margin.