Pran Shree

Pran Shree, is the founder and chief executive officer of Shree Property Holdings. Pran’s odyssey from a butcher’s boy to a global business leader is closely tied to pivotal moments in his life.

His journey started as a butcher’s boy in his father’s business, beginning when he was in grade seven. However, his path changed after he married. “I got married at 20 and when I had my first son, I realised I needed more than just working as a blockman in my father’s butcher shop,” he explains. This realisation led Pran to open his own butchery. Within a few years, he purchased his first truck to handle his business. “As soon as I had my own truck, other people wanted to use our services, so I started meat wholesaling. That’s how I grew the business,” he says.

A further opportunity arose when mad cow disease hit South Africa. “We faced a meat shortage. That’s when we started importing from places like Australia, South America, Northen Canada and even Ireland,” he recalls. When the Fanny Mae crash took place in the United States in 2008, there was a global halt on trade. Consequently, as he was unable to move stock, his need for warehouses outstripped his supply, so he began purchasing warehouses. “We went from three warehouses to ten in a single year,” Pran notes.

With each new obstacle, Pran adapted by expanding his offerings and, in turn, his business. He also saw an opening to expand into property. “We couldn’t find food-grade warehouses that met our standards, so we decided to build our own,” he explains. “I made the decision to purchase old buildings, demolish them, and rebuild them as what people now call “Pran Shree Buildings”– specifically designed food-grade warehouses with open layouts and no columns, according to my own design.”

Over the years, this decision transformed into a massive enterprise, with Shree Property Holdings now managing nearly three million square metres of warehousing space worldwide.

STRONG SYNERGY
In addition, Pran has created a strong synergy within the business, operating successfully year-round. The company has a busy five months for citrus, followed by another five months preparing for Easter. “So, when you and your grandchildren enjoy Easter eggs each year, they’ve been safely stored in our food- grade warehouses. That’s how I ensure my people have year-round employment. Previously, due to the seasonal nature of the business, I had to lay them off for six months each year,” he explained.

Pran’s purpose is deeply rooted in his values and upbringing. He reflects on his mother’s generosity as a butcher, recalling how she gave meat to those in need during Christmas. “I used to ask her why she did it when people didn’t even thank her,” he remembers. “This ethos of giving and community drives Pran’s purpose. “If we can employ two people, they can feed six,” he says, adding that their warehouses on the North Coast indirectly support about 24,000 people. “That’s what drives me – knowing that we’re helping people lead better lives.”

For Pran, his greatest accomplishment lies in the legacy he leaves behind. “A building is like a signature on the earth,” he says. He takes pride in the structures he has created, but even more so in the values he passes on to his family. “I have five grandchildren with a sixth on the way, and I want them to grow up humble, with their feet on the ground, and caring towards others. I’m still working on that accomplishment but it’s my life’s greatest ambition,” he shares.

ACCOUNTABILITY AND GROWTH
The 2021 riots in Durban, Pran says, were a low point in his life. “We were devastated, but there was no time to dwell on it,” he recounts. While he was away, his team and the local community banded together to protect their properties. “The way people stood together, from the local security companies to our own staff, was incredible.” Pran believes this experience showcased the resilience and unity of Durbanites, a spirit that has continued to inspire him and his team.

Pran’s approach to motivating his team is one of accountability and growth. “I tell them that everyone makes mistakes, but we can’t make the same one twice,” he says. “We’ll get to the bottom of any problem,” he adds. “We’ll assist, we’ll educate. But I give only one chance for each person to look at themselves and decide, ‘Do you want to do this or not?’ This approach keeps everyone on their toes.” He added with a laugh, “I also have cameras everywhere.”

Pran finds much inspiration in those people he has admired since he was young. “As a boy, I’d go with my dad on Saturdays to buy lamb from Nicos Criticos at Chester Meats on Point Road,” he recalls. Today, Nicos remains close, and he has continued to support Pran.

Looking forward, Pran envisions significant improvements in KwaZulu-Natal’s infrastructure and tourism. “Transnet and PRASA need to come in strong,” he notes, emphasising the need for a reliable rail and port system. Pran also believes that security and peace of mind are vital to reviving the region’s tourist appeal. “Imagine being able to walk from Suncoast to the Point without looking over your shoulder,” he says, convinced that a safe, bustling tourism sector will bring economic growth. “If we can get that back, KZN has a bright future.”

In conclusion, Pran’s motto is simple: “Happy wife, happy life”. He attributes much of his success to the harmony he maintains in his home. “If your household is in order, everything else falls into place,” he explains. Having worked alongside his wife and children for over 40 years, Pran knows the importance of a supportive family. “It’s not just another job for us; it’s our life,” he says.

Pran Shree’s journey is a story of adaptation, resilience, and purpose. With each challenge, he has expanded his impact, building a legacy that he hopes will serve his community and family long after he is gone.