For 30 years, we have been creating the right sound for shopping – tailored to the needs of our customers. But what is behind this sound? Who makes sure that the perfect playlist is created? The answer: our music team. A look behind the scenes of the music editorial team shows what makes Markus Treiber’s job as music editor so special and how he creates the perfect sound for customers.

A day in the life of Markus Treiber: “Lots of music, lots of research – and a bit of madness”

“The flow has to be right,” says Markus ‘Treibsi’ Treiber, Senior Music Editor at MAXFIVE. For years, he has been an integral part of the 8-person music team at MAXFIVE, and every day he ensures the perfect sound for our customers across Europe with passion and sensitivity.

The job? “Listening to a lot of music, working on the computer and getting the best tracks for our customers,” Markus explains. But it’s actually much more complicated than that: “Every day, we play around 15,000 songs in stores across Europe. Music research and regular playlist updates are essential. Another important part of the job is programming the playlist so that the right song is playing in the right store at the right time.”

Each of the approximately 25 in-store radio customers of MAXFIVE receives an individual, customized music program. Of course, a shopping radio in Italy sounds different than one in Prague, also in terms of music. And to achieve just that, you need specialists. It’s not just about putting together playlists – it’s about developing a music strategy that reaches the target groups, evokes emotions, triggers needs and thereby increases sales.

Everyday life at MAXFIVE is just as diverse as the sound we create. “We follow all new releases, are also in contact with artists and labels internationally and continuously screen all current music trends,” says Markus. But the deciding factor? The human touch. Even when using AI tools, it remains the task of our music editors to find the sound that not only touches professionally, but also emotionally.

The secret formula for the perfect sound: tempo, vibe and the “extra mile”

At MAXFIVE, it’s about more than just the right music selection – it’s about the art of finding the right rhythm and sound for every business. “Music can put us in a good mood, motivate us or relax us. But it can also put us in a buying mood,” explains Markus. “The challenge? Finding the sound that suits each brand and the target group behind it.”

At MAXFIVE, we create customized playlists for large retail chains such as REWE, PENNY and BILLA, as well as for smaller shops. Each playlist is specially adapted and optimized to create the right “vibe” for each target group. And don’t worry, it never gets boring – the MAXFIVE team always provides fresh content.

Star moments that make the job unforgettable

In addition to working on playlists, MAXFIVE also regularly offers the opportunity to experience music stars up close. Tim Bendzko, Mark Forster, James Blunt and Sarah Connor – they have all been guests at MAXFIVE for interviews. Mark Forster, during his studio visit, even read the current PENNY offers live…

And ultimately, MAXFIVE customers also benefit from this direct line to the stars: meet-and-greet events have already been organized for employees, and corporate podcasts with stars have been implemented. This allows brand messages to be conveyed authentically and in an inspiring way – without resorting to traditional product advertising.

AI – The future of music planning or a few notes too many?

Of course, artificial intelligence (AI) also plays a role in music planning. But will AI ever replace the human music editor? Definitely not! For Markus, it’s the combination of innovative technology and the human touch that makes for success. “AI helps us with data processing and cataloging songs, but the right flow, the emotional connection – no machine can deliver that. That’s where we humans come in,” explains Markus. “I think very few people would believe an AI moderator’s enthusiasm for the last Taylor Swift concert.”

Conclusion: More than just music – the wow factor at MAXFIVE

The work of the music editorial team at MAXFIVE is anything but monotonous. It’s not just about creating playlists, but about finding the right sound at the right time and thus increasing the success of our customers. Every day, our team of real music lovers ensures that the flow is right, the mood is right and sales are growing.

MAXFIVE-Fact: Music creates atmosphere and encourages consumers to consume and invest more. A study by the University of Wollongong (2016) shows that classical music, for example, lowers the inhibition threshold to buy high-priced products. In other words: Beethoven not only enjoyed fine wines himself – his music still inspires wine lovers today to choose a more expensive product. Music affects us, often without us realizing it: it influences our mood, activates memories and touches us on a deep emotional level, triggering feelings and needs.