A new survey of Berlin nightlife operators shows that ticket sales have replaced food and beverage sales as the sector’s main revenue source, reversing the model that dominated before 2020.
The study, published by Clubcommission in Berlin, draws on responses from 102 clubs, promoters, music bars and other stakeholders in the city’s night economy.
Revenue shift
“In 2017, around 60 percent of revenue came from food and beverage sales, while ticket sales accounted for only 21 percent. 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,” the study summary states.
“Behind this lies a change in nightlife habits. People are planning their club nights more consciously, staying for shorter periods, and drinking less,” the study summary states.
Among those surveyed, 73 percent observed a decline in alcohol consumption, 60 percent an increase in non-alcoholic beverage consumption, 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,” the summary continues.
Financial pressure
The shift is occurring alongside rising staff, rent and operating costs, as well as reduced disposable income for many clubbers. The study found that 39 percent of clubs and event organisers surveyed made a loss in 2025, up from 21 percent in 2017.
Proposed measures
The report puts forward several proposals:
- reliable funding
- legal recognition to ease regulations
- improved working conditions
- systematically opening state-owned properties for club culture, supported by 86 percent of respondents
