SOMM - Society Of Music Merchants e.V.
Association
ABOUT US
The Society Of Music Merchants e. V. shapes and secures the future of the musical instrument and music equipment industry . As a central interface to politics and the public, we represent the interests of manufacturers, distributors, importers and dealers and advocate for the economic and political interests of the industry. Together we promote growth and development throughout the industry.​​​​
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Without the association... ...
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… an entire industry lacks a voice: politicians, administrators and the public hear no collective expression of interests. SOMM brings the industry's perspectives to bear where decisions are prepared.
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… regulations hit companies without restraint: EU and national requirements have an immediate impact if they are not evaluated and represented at an early stage. SOMM provides guidance and advocates for practical solutions.
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… there is no common strategic orientation: future issues – digitalisation, sustainability, education, market structures – require coordination. SOMM coordinates these issues and provides direction for the industry.
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… knowledge is fragmented: trends, market data, standards and best practices are disseminated in a fragmented manner. SOMM bundles knowledge and makes it available in a structured manner.
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… active music-making loses visibility: the cultural and social value of music-making needs to be continuously communicated. SOMM anchors this topic in the long term and professionally.
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… the industry loses its ecosystem: manufacturers, distributors, music retailers, service providers, culture, education and politics need common points of connection. SOMM is this platform – connecting, stabilising, providing direction.
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… the MI industry has a structural disadvantage compared to other creative industries: games, film, broadcasting, press, books, design, fashion: all of these have strong associations. These ensure visibility, political presence and access to programmes.
History
The Society Of Music Merchants e. V. (SOMM) was founded in 1986 under the name "Association of Distributors of Musical Instruments and Music Electronics in Germany" (VVMD) and renamed SOMM in 2005. The association currently represents the interests of almost 750 European companies and organizations from the areas of manufacturing, distribution, trade, publishing and media as well as private music schools from the music industry.
The main tasks of the association include the political and economic representation of its members, the promotion of music and music electronics in the educational sector and the maintenance of contacts with public bodies and other associations. SOMM also organizes events such as the
MUSIC DEALER DAYS to provide members and industry players with a platform for networking and exchange.
Through close cooperation with other important industry organizations within the framework of the Forum Musikwirtschaft and the Coalition of Cultural and Creative Industries in Germany (K3D), SOMM is committed to representing the diverse interests of the industry and addressing important topics such as economic, legal and sustainability issues.