Shefqet Kastrati

Shefqet Kastrati (born June 5, 1961) is an Albanian entrepreneur and the founder of Kastrati Group, one of Albania's largest privately owned business conglomerates. He is known for his investments in energy, construction, tourism, insurance, and real estate.

He is regarded as a key figure in Albania's post-communist economic development. Shefqet Kastrati is one of the wealthiest persons in Albania and it's estimated his net worth to be US$1.8 billion as of 2025.

Early life and career Shefqet Kastrati was born in 1961 in Albania, Hasi. He began his career in business following the collapse of the communist regime, opening his first fuel station in 1991. This initial venture marked the foundation of what would become the Kastrati Group.

Kastrati Group The Kastrati Group, founded by Kastrati in the early 1990s, is a diversified business operating in over 12 sectors. Its primary areas of focus include:

Energy and Hydrocarbons: The group is the largest distributor of fuel in Albania, operating over 150 fuel stations and maintaining extensive storage and logistics infrastructure. Construction and Real Estate: Kastrati Group is responsible for major real estate projects, including Downtown One in Tirana, the tallest building in Albania. Tourism and Hospitality: In 2023, the group made its first U.S. acquisition by purchasing the SLS Brickell Hotel in Miami for $53.5 million. Media: In the same year, Kastrati acquired a majority stake in Euronews Albania.

Recognition Kastrati has been recognized multiple times for his role in business and national development:

Businessman of the Year (2017), awarded by the newspaper Koha Jonë. The Order of Merit "Grand Master" awarded by Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama. Entrepreneur of the Year (2024), awarded by Business Mag.

Legacy , Kastrati Group employs over 4,000 individuals and continues to be a driving force in Albania's private sector. Kastrati is credited with helping modernize various industries and attracting international attention to Albanian entrepreneurship.