The historic frame shop Fiol, with roots in the Poblenou neighborhood, commemorates a century of operation in Barcelona this year. The family business, now in its fourth generation, has skillfully navigated changing trends and market challenges, transitioning from framing costumbrista paintings to modern city icons.

Salvador Olaria Riera, a third-generation representative, has been instrumental in elevating the framing sector. At 80 years old, he remains involved in the family business, founded by his grandfather Narcís Riera, a municipal police officer who opened the first store in 1926 on Marià Aguiló street. The original Poblenou shop stood in the same location for 99 years.

The company, initially known as Riera and renamed Fiol fifty years ago (referencing Figueras and Olaria), has shown great resilience. The generational handover has been led by Salvador's son, also named Salvador, who has spearheaded digitalization and process modernization. This adaptability has helped the business avoid the rent increases and lack of successors affecting other shops.

Currently, Fiol operates five stores across the city: at Bilbao, 89; Mallorca, 558; Gran de Sant Andreu, 85; Viladomat, 85; and Aribau, 263. The business maintains a stock of approximately 900 frame models, offering custom solutions that stand apart from low-cost global market alternatives.

Over the century, the shop has witnessed evolving customer tastes. From ornate frames for bourgeois art and religious pieces to contemporary minimalist designs for family photos and modern art, Fiol has adapted. Their windows now feature many scenes of Barcelona and its landmarks, reflecting local pride and the city's essence.