DistantNews
Support us
🇦🇹 Austria /Culture & Society

Electro-Dealer Suppin: The Man Who Has All the Batteries

From Der Standard · () German

Translated from German, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

In-depth Sources not specified Context piece
  • Herbert Suppin, a 78-year-old Viennese electrician, built a legendary business known for having "all the batteries."
  • Suppin, who describes himself as a showman rather than a salesperson, ran his Ottakring shop for decades.
  • His life story is described as rich, incredible, and potentially tragic, spanning four hours of conversation.

Herbert "Harry" Suppin, a 78-year-old Viennese shop owner, has become a local legend for his electrical business, renowned for stocking an astonishing variety of batteries. His store, located in the Ottakring district, was a go-to destination for anyone needing a specific battery.

Suppin, however, doesn't see himself as a typical salesman. He characterizes his approach as that of a "showman," suggesting a flair for presentation and perhaps a more theatrical engagement with his customers. This persona, combined with his extensive inventory, cemented his shop's legendary status in Vienna.

Conversations with Suppin reportedly reveal a life story that is exceptionally rich and multifaceted. Described as potentially tragic, his experiences have captivated listeners, with one account detailing a four-hour conversation that left the listener deeply impressed by the depth and breadth of his life journey.

Look, I was always a showman, not a salesman!

— Herbert SuppinDescribing his approach to business and customer interaction.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Der Standard in German. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

More Stories

From Our Blog