Kastrati Group

Last updated
Kastrati Group
Company type Private
Industry Infrastructure, Energy, Insurance, Construction, Tourism, Hospitality, Retail
Founded1991;34 years ago (1991)
Founder Shefqet Kastrati
Headquarters Tirana, Albania
Area served
Albania
ProductsInfrastructure
Energy
Insurance
Construction
Tourism & Hospitality
Retail
Number of employees
4,000+ [1]
Website kastrati.al

Kastrati Group is an Albanian oil and gas company, with operations spanning various sectors, including energy, trade, construction, and transportation. Founded in 1990, the company has grown to become a dominant player in Albania's economy, contributing significantly to the country's development and infrastructure. [2] Activities include operating Shell plc petrol stations, [3] leisure industry, [4] air travel, [5] and associated retail. [6]

History

Kastrati Group was founded in 1991 by Shefqet Kastrati during Albania's transition from communism to a market economy. Initially focused on fuel distribution, the company rapidly expanded its operations into various sectors, including construction, energy, and trading. [7]

In the 1990s and early 2000s, Kastrati Group established a widespread network of petrol stations and entered the bulk terminal business with the development of MBM Port in Porto-Romano. The company played a pivotal role in Albania's infrastructural development, undertaking major projects such as commercial and residential complexes in Tirana and other key cities. [7]

In 2020, Kastrati Group made a landmark acquisition by purchasing a 100% stake in Tirana International Airport, Albania's main international airport, further solidifying its presence in the country's strategic industries. [7]

Over the last decade, Kastrati Group has continued to diversify its portfolio, venturing into insurance with Albsig, automotive distribution with Auto Star (Mercedes-Benz), retail chains, and media ownership including Euronews Albania. [7]

Today, Kastrati Group stands as one of Albania's largest and most influential conglomerates, playing a critical role in the country's economic development and regional business landscape. [7]

References

  1. "Group Homepage". Kastrati. Retrieved 2 April 2025.
  2. "Contribution to Albania's Economy". Kastrati. July 2024.
  3. Hodo, Genta (19 November 2024). "First Shell fuel stations to open in Albania by end-2025". SeeNews.
  4. Ahmeti, Lulzim (14 March 2012). "Kastrati Group opens bowling center in Peja". telegrafi.com.
  5. "Tirana International Airport (TIA) Soars to New Heights as the Premier Aviation Hub in the Western Balkans". Albanian Daily News. 16 May 2024.
  6. "Lagardère Travel Retail and Kastrati Group sign agreement to develop retail activities in Albania". DutyFree Magazine. 1 November 2023.
  7. 1 2 3 4 5 https://balkaninsight.com/2021/12/15/china-in-the-balkans-controversy-and-cost/