United Bulb and Electricity Co.
United Bulb and Electricity Co. (Egyesült Izzólámpa és Villamossági Rt.), commonly known as Tungsram, is a historic Hungarian manufacturer of lighting and vacuum technology products. Founded in Budapest in 1896, the company became globally recognized for its innovation in tungsten filament lamp production before its eventual acquisition by General Electric in 1989 and subsequent restructuring.
Brand Identity Data
Verified on October 15, 2026
Corporate Lineage
Company founded
United Bulb and Electricity Co. was established in Budapest, Hungary.
GE acquisition
General Electric acquired a majority stake in Tungsram, marking its first major acquisition in Eastern Europe.
GE divestment
Tungsram was purchased by Tungsram Operations Kft., led by Jörg Bauer, following GE's decision to exit the lighting business.
Liquidation proceedings
Tungsram Operations Kft. initiated liquidation proceedings due to financial difficulties and market challenges.