Kalle Neukölln is undergoing a significant expansion of its offerings in the areas of music, culture, and gastronomy. On 1st September this year, two new establishments opened at Ganghoferstraße 10: Bar Clay and the new premises of record retailer Rough Trade. Both entities operate independently from a business perspective but jointly contribute to strengthening the cultural infrastructure of the district, as emphasised by Hans Stier, a partner at real estate developer MREI. Ganghoferstraße is increasingly establishing itself as one of Berlin's key music hotspots.
Rough Trade, which first became a tenant at Kalle Neukölln in 2024, undertook an internal relocation from Karl-Marx-Straße to Ganghoferstraße. The independent record retailer now unites both its sales area and warehouse under one roof at its new location, spanning over 400 square metres. The pure store area covers 160 square metres. The core of the new concept is a specially designed stage, offering capacity for up to 250 people for events. Furthermore, the new store features a reorganised retail space, a generous glass front facing Ganghoferstraße, and an integrated bar. The official opening party is scheduled for 8th October.
Since its initial opening in Neukölln, Rough Trade has developed into an important meeting point for music lovers, artists, and labels. In addition to classic record sales, the offering includes a diverse programme with live performances, signing sessions, DJ sets, and listening sessions. Curt Keplin, Managing Director Europe at Rough Trade, stated that since its opening two and a half years ago, the store has grown into a significant meeting point for Berlin's music scene and beyond. The new location offers expanded opportunities to create special experiences for customers, artists, and partners, while retaining its roots in the Neukölln district. The previous location on Karl-Marx-Straße closed its doors on 27th August.
The newly opened Bar Clay occupies an area of almost 100 square metres and offers space for around 70 guests. To start, Clay employs six staff members and is open six evenings per week. In addition to regular bar operations, DJ nights and performances are planned. John Hasler, the operator of Clay, described the concept as an open space that should transform with the evenings and visitors. The goal is to be neither a classic neighbourhood pub nor a bar that takes itself too seriously. This openness is Clay's defining characteristic.
With the establishment of Rough Trade and Clay, complemented by existing institutions such as the Paradox Music Hall, Prachtwerk, and SchneidersLaden, Kalle Neukölln's position as a central player in the district's cultural life is strengthened. The developments on Ganghoferstraße underscore the efforts of real estate developers such as MREI to actively participate in shaping urban spaces and promoting cultural focal points.
