We’ve been writing about the economic challenges facing live music and clubbing regularly in recent years. What better place to continue that coverage than Berlin, which has a decent claim to be the world’s clubbing capital.

A new study from Clubcommission in Berlin outlines some trends that will be familiar around the world, including how nightlife revenues have shifted. It’s based on a survey of clubs, promoters, music bars and other stakeholders in Berlin’s night economy.

“In 2017, around 60 percent of revenue came from food and beverage sales, while ticket sales accounted for only 21 percent,” explains its summary. “Today, the ratio is reversed: Ticket sales are the most important source of revenue at 59 percent, with food and beverage sales making up 20 percent.”

“Behind this lies a change in nightlife habits. People are planning their club nights more consciously, staying for shorter periods, and drinking less,” it continued.

“73 percent of those surveyed observed a decline in alcohol consumption, 60 percent an increase in the consumption of non-alcoholic beverages, and 57 percent shorter lengths of stay… What the bar no longer generates must be recouped through entrance fees and thus through the cultural work itself.”

This has all been happening amid rising costs of staff, rent and other operating costs, as well as during a time when many clubbers’ disposable income has been squeezed. The study noted that 39% of clubs and event organisers surveyed made a loss in 2025 – up from 21% in 2017, and Clubcommission’s last study.

This is a relatively small study – 102 people completed the survey – in a single city. But its findings reflect what’s happening elsewhere in the world, as do its proposed solutions: reliable funding; legal recognition to ease regulations; and improved working conditions. 

Oh, and its call to “systematically open state-owned properties for club culture”, which feels very Berlin – but with support from 86% of the people surveyed, is an idea that could be worth investigating in other clubbing cities too.

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