Roots with a future
The story of
Bugkel GmbH
For over 140 years, we have stood for craftsmanship quality, a spirit of innovation, and teamwork. What started as a small business has grown into a versatile company with over 40 employees—specializing in renovation, interior fit-out, and high-quality surfaces. Our history is shaped by growth, responsibility, and a passion for the craft. Discover the milestones that define who we are today.
What has always driven us –
From a small workshop to a modern master craftsman business.
a journey shaped by craftsmanship, values, and vision.
Craftsmanship quality & precision
Reliability & customer focus
Innovation with tradition
Training & promoting the future
Sustainability and natural building materials
From the founding to today
a journey full of commitment and change
1878
Company founded
In 1878, Carl Bugkel founded a painting and decorating business in Vienna-Hernals at Leitermayergasse 2, specializing in wood and marble imitations, stucco work, and bronzing.
1896
FRIBU COMPANY
Carl Bugkel, brother of Friedrich Jakob Karl Bugkel, took over the company FRIBU founded in 1896. Originally specializing in paint production, the range later expanded to include chemical-technical products such as shoe polish, floor pastes, and cleaning agents.
1900
TAKEOVER BY SON FRIEDRICH
In January 1900, Friedrich Bugkel, the founder’s son, took over the business. At that time, he already ran three successful paint shops, further expanding the family’s business activities.
1922
MANAGEMENT BY FRIEDRICH JAKOB KARL
Friedrich Jakob Karl Bugkel took over Bugkel from his uncle Friedrich Bugkel, the founder’s son. He continued to run the business at Beheimgasse 48. Under his leadership, the company remained successful as a painting and decorating business until his death in 1977.
1967
ERWIN BUGKEL FOUNDS HIS COMPANY
Erwin Bugkel, nephew of Friedrich Jakob Karl Bugkel, learned the trade under him and passed the master craftsman exam in the painting and decorating trade on February 24, 1967. That same year, he founded his own painting and decorating business at Rötzergasse 33.
1980
FRITZ BUGKEL JOINS THE COMPANY
In 1980, Fritz Bugkel, son of Erwin Bugkel, joined the company. At that time, the main business was almost exclusively focused on private customers, and the company employed around eight people.
1990
SHOWROOM KALVARIENBERGGASSE
In 1990, the company moved to Kalvarienberggasse 32. On site, there was a retail area for paints and varnishes as well as a showroom for flooring and curtains. In June 2001, the company was converted into Bugkel Ges.m.b.H., managed by his son Fritz Bugkel.
2004
BERNHARD BUGKEL JOINS THE COMPANY
Bernhard Bugkel, son of Fritz Bugkel, joined the family business in 2004 and began his apprenticeship there. At the time, the company had around 25 employees and served customers throughout Austria.
2015
EXPANSION OF SERVICE AREAS
Bernhard Bugkel took over the business and continues to run it with ongoing development of its skilled trades. Under his leadership, the areas of damage restoration, drywall work, and mold remediation have been significantly expanded and firmly established in the service offering.
2025
STRONG GROWTH WITH A NEW LOOK
In 2025, the company presents itself as a modern, fast-growing business with around 50 employees. In addition to successful projects throughout Austria, it also operates internationally. In line with this, the company logo received a fresh redesign that reflects dynamism and ongoing development.
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