New study by Berlin’s Clubcommission reveals changing business models · News ⟋ RA
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Wed, Aug 12, 2026, 08:00The report marks the first comprehensive survey of Berlin’s club scene post-pandemic.
A new study released by Clubcommission, an advocacy alliance for club culture in Berlin, reveals changing economic models in the city’s nightlife scene.
Last week, the group released “Club Culture Berlin 2026,” its first comprehensive survey of club owners and event organisers since 2019. The survey noted that while the club scene remains culturally strong, economic pressures are causing venues to adjust business models.
“Berlin’s club dance floors are full,” said Marcel Weber, chairman of the Clubcommission, “yet it’s becoming increasingly difficult for many venues to operate sustainably. That’s exactly the imbalance this study makes visible.”
Rising personnel and operating costs are affecting most clubs, even as demand remains. While 83 percent of clubs and organisers report at least 50 percent capacity utilisation, only 61 percent are breaking even, compared to 79 percent in 2017. The rest operate at a financial loss.
The scene’s middle class is also disappearing, with 45 percent of respondents generating less than €100,000 in annual revenue, compared to 16 percent in 2017. Only seven percent reach more than two million euros.
In 2017, around 60 percent of revenue came from concessions sales and admission made up 21 percent. According to the study, admission now makes up 59 percent while food and drinks account for 20 percent as individuals plan their nights more deliberately, stay for shorter periods and drink less.
The cost of nightlife has increased overall, with 67 percent of clubs and organisers raising drink prices and 47 percent increasing admission prices. But while 24 clubs and cultural venues have closed since 2020, around 25 new ones have opened. Venues are also investing in diversity, training and personnel, revealing a dynamic and shifting scene.
The study, performed in cooperation with the Senate Department for Economic Affairs, Energy and Public Enterprises, is based on responses from over 100 stakeholders in the Berlin club scene who participated in a quantitative survey. They include club owners, event organisers, independent collectives and more. The commission also staged twelve qualitative interviews with clubbers aged 22 to 28.
Browse the Instagram post below for full details of the study.