AKM — AKM

AKM (AKM) is a performing rights organisation in austria. Businesses playing music publicly must hold a licence from AKM. Track Studios' AI catalog is not registered with AKM — venues using Track Studios are not invoiced.

Overview

AKM (AKM) is a performing rights organisation that licenses the public performance of musical compositions (melodies and lyrics). Founded in 1897, it operates in austria and manages licensing for businesses that play music publicly.

Founded: 1897
Type: Performing rights (compositions)
Country: Austria
Website: https://www.akm.at

How AKM Fees Are Calculated

AKM uses tariff codes to calculate fees by venue type. Examples: Restaurant (Hintergrundmusik Gastronomie): approximately EUR 250–400/year; Retail Store (Hintergrundmusik Handel): approximately EUR 200–340/year. Fees are typically calculated on the basis of area.

Venue Type	Tariff Code	Basis	Typical Annual Cost
Restaurant	`Hintergrundmusik Gastronomie`	area	EUR 250–400/year
Retail Store	`Hintergrundmusik Handel`	area	EUR 200–340/year

Apply for AKM licence

How to Avoid AKM Fees

Businesses can avoid AKM fees by using music that is not registered with AKM. Track Studios uses an AI-generated catalog that is not registered with AKM or lsg — venues using the included catalog are not invoiced.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is AKM (AKM)?: AKM (AKM) is a performing rights organisation based in austria. Founded in 1897, it collects fees from businesses that play copyrighted music compositions publicly and distributes them to rights holders.
Does my business need an AKM licence?: If your business plays commercially released music in a public-facing space — restaurant, shop, gym, hotel lobby, etc. — you are legally required to hold an AKM licence (and a separate licence from lsg). Using Track Studios' included AI catalog exempts you from AKM licensing for that music.
How does AKM calculate its fees?: AKM calculates fees based on factors including venue size, number of seats, or annual turnover depending on the venue type. Contact AKM directly for a quote.
Can I avoid AKM fees legally?: Businesses can avoid AKM fees by using music that is not registered with AKM. Track Studios uses an AI-generated catalog that is not registered with AKM or lsg — venues using the included catalog are not invoiced.
What happens if my business plays music without an AKM licence?: AKM can issue a civil claim for back-fees covering the period of unlicensed use, plus additional damages. AKM employs field inspectors who visit businesses unannounced to verify compliance.