The festival sector can be a precarious place at the best of times, where one harsh summer can undo years of good work. It’s a fact that was laid bare again in the past few weeks, when the companies behind the long-running Bestival and its sister event Camp Bestival were placed into administration after running into financial difficulties (the latter’s future was secured only via a rescue package with promoting giants Live Nation and SJM Concerts).

What made the events’ ...