Kastner & Öhler Shopping Center, Graz

The Kastner & Öhler Shopping Center, situated in Graz, holds a significant place in the country's retail arena, carrying a heritage dating back to its establishment in 1873 by Karl Kastner and Herman Öhler. As a family-operated chain of department stores primarily active in southern Austria, it reflects a legacy of innovation and expansion within the local retail sector. The roots of Kastner & Öhler can be traced back to a small store in Troppau (now Opava), later relocating to Graz in 1883 on Sackstraße. The company made its mark early on by introducing fixed prices and launching a mail-order service, pioneering consumer convenience and trust in Central Europe.

In 1894, Austria-Hungary saw a significant milestone with the opening of its first department store in Graz by Kastner & Öhler. This pioneering establishment featured modern amenities such as elevators, air conditioning, and a refreshment room, setting a new standard in retail spaces with its innovative architectural design, including a captivating colored glass dome. Over time, Kastner & Öhler expanded its product range to include toys, household goods, china, and more.

An addition to the Kastner & Öhler Shopping Center is the Sporthaus, a contemporary building designed by architects Michael Szyskowitz and Carla Kowalski, facing the Mur River. This expansion not only enriches the shopping experience but also contributes to Graz's architectural landscape, complementing the nearby Kunsthaus. The incorporation of glass roofs and steel bridges in the Sporthaus design showcases a fusion of innovation and aesthetics, heralding a new architectural era for Graz.

Today, Kastner & Öhler stands as a symbol of lasting legacy and progressive innovation in Austria's retail industry, offering a diverse range of products through its physical outlets and online platform, while remaining an integral part of the Graz community and beyond.