SESH

Import Export is a well-known nightclub and cultural space located in Munich, Germany, that has become a vital part of the city's independent art and music scene. Rooted in an ethos of inclusivity and experimentation, Import Export originally emerged in the early 2000s as an initiative to support offbeat nightlife and provide a platform for subcultural movements. Its beginnings trace back to the Munich Kreativquartier, a creative district that cultivated alternative spaces as a response to the rising commercialization of nightlife in the city.

Exporting fresh local talent while importing innovative sounds and cultural impulses from abroad, the venue quickly garnered a reputation for supporting grassroots music, visual art, and socio-political dialogue. The club's distinctive blend of open-minded atmosphere, genre-crossing programming, and commitment to diversity earned it a loyal following among artists and audiences alike. Over time, Import Export has seen significant changes in both location and structure due to the evolving urban landscape of Munich.

Originally housed in an interim spot near the Dachauer Straße, it moved more permanently within the Kreativquartier as part of an urban redevelopment project, transforming repurposed industrial spaces into vibrant centers of creativity. Each move reflected not only logistical necessity but also an ongoing commitment to adapt and grow with the needs of the community. Despite uncertainties around its lease and the pressure of urban development, Import Export has continued to thrive as a safe haven for boundary-pushing music, performance, and discourse.

The club has played a significant role in elevating the city’s reputation as a site for cultural innovation while maintaining a fiercely independent spirit. Internationally recognized for its eclectic bookings and open format, Import Export has hosted performances by a wide variety of artists across genres—from techno to jazz, funk, electronica, and world music. Its calendar features both established names and up-and-coming performers, mirroring the venue’s dedication to musical diversity and discovery.

Notable artists who have taken the stage at Import Export include internationally acclaimed acts like Jazzanova, Shantel, and DJ Marcelle, as well as beloved German performers such as Blumentopf, Pollyester, and Die Goldenen Zitronen. The club has also welcomed genre-bending collectives like the Munich-based Schlachthofbronx, experimental musicians including Andrea Belfi, and numerous DJs and producers active within Germany’s vibrant electronic music scene. These performances, coupled with regular showcases, workshops, and festivals, underscore Import Export’s position as a pillar of Munich’s alternative cultural landscape.