On-site report from Berlin's legendary stationery shop, Papeterie, which has been in operation for over a hundred years.
During my trip to Berlin, I decided to visit the coolest stationery store in the city. Since it was my first time in Berlin, I relied on the internet: that's how I found the Papeterie (full name: Papeterie H. Künnemann Nachf. GmbH – Berlin) store. Based on user reviews and the location, I was sure it couldn't be a small-time place, as it is just a stone's throw from Ku-damm (about a mix of Nagykörút and Andrássy út). By the way, this is claimed by the owner himself. claims 🙂
A stone's throw from Kurfürstendamm
It's a super cool area, Berlin's trendiest shopping street, filled with glittering shops, hotels, and restaurants. Exiting the subway, my path led past a SuperDry brand store, a Hard Rock Café, and an Apple showroom, which already set the mood. I'll show you a photo of the modest Apple milieu:
I admit, I could hardly find the Papeterie at first. The building was scaffolded up to the ceiling, renovations were underway.
Upon entering the door, I was amazed: I was welcomed by a surprisingly spacious (100+ m2) and bright store. The paper goods were displayed on elegant, illuminated counters, while the fountain pens tempted visitors on display tables. Comfortable chairs were placed on both sides of the tables so that interested customers could comfortably try out the chosen writing instruments. The salespeople were kind and patient. They knew their profession well and were happy to answer any questions that arose. When I arrived, a gentleman speaking English was sorting through Montblanc pens at the table.
I was sure that the selection of fountain pens in this store would be outstanding. I was not disappointed: The Papeterie has a huge selection of Pelikan and Montblanc. As far as I could see, the Japanese line was represented by Platinum and Sailor, and one display case featured Montegrappa writing instruments.
The Papeterie webshop by the way has a huge selection: alongside well-known German, Japanese, and Italian fountain pens, I also encountered a few brands I was unfamiliar with.
Stationery store with extras
The wide variety and quality of paper goods and accessories completely captivated me. I say this as someone who is not a big fan, but the Papeterie collection impressed me.
The store offers numerous Montblanc notebooks and leather goods, from bags to wallets to pencil cases. The Italian luxury brand Montegrappa was also represented with similarly priced and kitschy accessories. (For those who like these or find comfort in having their pen, watch, bag, and underwear from the same brand, that's fine by me).
On the shelves of the Papeterie, I also found impressive, premium quality globes. These served more as eye-catchers: from the accompanying catalog, one could choose the globe that suited the size, lighting, and typology from hundreds of types.
I also encountered postcards, greeting cards, paper boxes, and Easter table decorations of a quality I had never seen before. The assortment suggested taste and expertise. My favorites were the Easter bunny table decorations reminiscent of old-fashioned patterns. A graphic designer from Northern Germany draws and cuts them by hand, one by one. Here’s a look:
The snow globes are made by a Dutch company. Before you wave it off, I’ll tell you that I also ordered one like this from my advertising agency in China. I saw it, I held it in my hand. This is not the same. It's much finer, more sophisticated work. It's one thing that the interior of the snow globe is more beautifully crafted. The wonder comes when we shake it. Incredibly fine snowflakes cover the landscape, reflecting in the light. A heavenly sight.
And this was just the beginning. From notepads to various notebooks and folders, from porcelain decorations to boxes, and pencil sets, countless beautiful paper goods lined the shelves.
The greeting and postcard, as well as the various calendars, were also of artistic beauty. Considering it was my first visit, I didn't even try to take it all in at once.
Conversation with the owner
The owner, Mr. Alexander H. Müller, mentioned that the store has been operated as a family business for over 100 years. It has mostly been in this street, but it has moved twice. The gentleman, in his sixties, represents the third generation of owners. He is very polite and immediately switched to English after hearing my stumbling in German. A true German: somewhat reserved, not pushy, friendly, but with a hint of coolness. He was happy to share the history of the store and the products, but his eyes really lit up when the conversation turned to the business.
He gifted me the Erstklassig magazine issue 2022/2023. I would say he proudly showed their two-page advertisement with his portrait and the snow globes, but he only remarked in passing: „It was ridiculously expensive.”. I think this is a kind of compliment towards the magazine. From my experience in advertising agency projects, I learned that clients are mostly dissatisfied in the end. They either complain about the quality or the price. However, if quality is not their focus, it is clearly a sign of satisfaction 🙂
On my way out, I was wondering how much a good storytelling heritage/content marketing or promotion with influencers could boost the store's sales. (I don't know, in any case, Mr. Müller is not currently looking for an agency).
However, if someone were to visit the store, I leave his contact information here.
I would like to note that I am planning another trip to Berlin in the fall, during which I will definitely stop by the fantastic Papeterie store. Who wants to join me?
