From a single fuel station in the early ’90s to one of the most powerful business groups in the Balkans. This is the story of Shefqet Kastrati, founder of Kastrati Group, the conglomerate that has expanded into some of the most strategic sectors of the Albanian economy: energy, insurance, construction, tourism, and automotive.
Through a clear strategy of investment and diversification, he has built a multidimensional business structure that operates as a self-contained ecosystem. Below we present the five core pillars of this empire, which best represent Shefqet Kastrati’s vision, influence, and significance in the Albanian economy.
1. Hydrocarbon Trade – The Core Pillar of the Group
Kastrati Sh.A is the flagship company and most recognized name in the group’s portfolio. Its activity focuses on:
- Import and distribution of oil and gas.
- Operating a national network with over 100 fuel stations.
- Storage and transport of hydrocarbon derivatives according to EU standards.
- Partnerships with international companies in the energy market.
In a liberalized and competitive market, Kastrati has maintained its status as the absolute leader, being one of the largest contributors to the wholesale and retail fuel trade in Albania and the region.
2. Tourism and Hospitality – Investing in Quality and National Image
With its entry into the tourism and hospitality sector, Kastrati Group has positioned itself as a key player in transforming the Albanian tourism offer to meet international standards.
Hyatt Regency Tirana
- The first hotel with this global brand in Albania.
- Located in a strategic area of the capital, within the “Kastrati Tower” complex.
- Offers a wide range of luxury services, from premium accommodation to conference and event spaces.
Dua Hotel Miami
- The group’s first investment in the USA, in the heart of Brickell, Miami.
- Designed for an international clientele, aligned with Kastrati’s philosophy of elite hospitality exported beyond borders.
This sector reflects not only a drive toward economic development but also a commitment to improving Albania’s image as a tourist destination worthy of European standards.
3. Insurance and Financial Services – Albsig, Trust at the Core of Service
Albsig Sh.A, part of the Kastrati Group portfolio, is one of the most important insurance companies in Albania. It operates nationally in both insurance branches: non-life and life.
The company offers:
- Mandatory and voluntary car insurance.
- Health policies for individuals and businesses.
- Property and liability insurance.
- Integrated products for corporations and financial institutions.
In a developing market, Albsig has positioned itself as a standard for professionalism, digitalization, and transparency, following the most advanced European risk management models.
4. Construction and Infrastructure – Kastrati Construction, a Symbol of Urban Development
Kastrati Construction is the group’s dedicated segment for construction and infrastructure development. Its activity covers:
- Residential and commercial projects.
- Public and private investments in urban infrastructure.
- High-rise towers with international environmental certifications.
Among the most notable works is Downtown One Tirana, one of the most modern buildings in the region, representing not only contemporary architecture but also Albania’s ambition to create new urban symbols aligned with the times.
This branch is the physical manifestation of the group’s building power and testifies to Kastrati Group’s commitment to economic and aesthetic development in the country.
5. Autostar Albania – Official Representative of Mercedes-Benz in Albania
In the automotive and vehicle retail sector, Kastrati Group operates through Autostar Albania, the exclusive representative of Mercedes-Benz in Albania. The company is synonymous with high quality in:
- Sales of new and used Mercedes-Benz vehicles.
- Brand-certified servicing with advanced technology.
- Providing financing and insurance packages for buyers.
Autostar Albania represents another dimension of Shefqet Kastrati’s philosophy: collaborating with the world’s leading brands to offer premium products in a market increasingly seeking sophistication and performance.
This sector reinforces the group’s image as a leader in innovation and reliability, bringing international standards to a developing market.
Conclusion
The above top 5 companies are not merely parts of an economic portfolio – they are representations of a business philosophy that blends traditional values like trust and stability with modern elements such as innovation, digitalization, and international integration.
Shefqet Kastrati has built more than a group of businesses – he has created a structure that genuinely impacts the economic life of the country, by building infrastructure, creating jobs, modernizing key sectors, and representing Albania in international markets.