Leonardo Hotels, a well-known name in the hospitality industry, has grown rapidly since its inception in 2006. This Berlin-based hotel chain is now home to over 160 hotels across Europe, making it a major player in the global travel market.
The story of Leonardo Hotels begins with David Fattal, an entrepreneur with a vision. Fattal, who already ran the successful Fattal Holdings Ltd. based in Tel Aviv, saw an opportunity to expand into the hotel industry. He launched Leonardo Hotels with the opening of their first hotel in Nürnberg, Germany in 2006. The brand quickly gained recognition, and the distinctive Leonardo Hotels logo was officially registered in 2007.
Expanding Horizons
The journey of Leonardo Hotels has been marked by a consistent drive for expansion. Fattal’s ambition led the company to acquire hotels in Germany, Belgium, and Switzerland in the early years. This expansion was fueled by a blend of internal funds and investments from financial institutions.
Leonardo Hotels continued its growth trajectory by acquiring and constructing new hotels in Hungary (2011), Austria (2012), the United Kingdom (2015), Spain (2015), Italy (2015), the Netherlands (2016), the Czech Republic (2016), Ireland (2017), Poland (2017), and Romania (2021). This impressive geographical reach reflects the company’s strategic vision to become a dominant force in European hospitality.
A Strong Foundation
Leonardo Hotels is a subsidiary of the Fattal Holdings group, established in 1998. The Sunflower Management GmbH & Co. KG serves as the administrative arm for the company’s European operations. Ownership of the hotels within the Leonardo portfolio is shared between Fattal Holdings and its various subsidiaries, with some properties being leased.
The dedication of its workforce is a key strength for Leonardo Hotels. In 2021, over 2,700 employees worked for the company across its Central European operations.
Leading the Way
Yoram Biton, a veteran of the hospitality industry, has played a crucial role in Leonardo Hotels’ success as the Managing Director of the Central Europe division, headquartered in Berlin.
The Leonardo Hotels brand family boasts a diverse range of hotel options: Leonardo Hotels, Leonardo Boutique Hotels, Leonardo Royal Hotels, and NYX Hotels by Leonardo Hotels. Each brand caters to different needs and preferences, ensuring that Leonardo Hotels can offer a suitable option for every traveler.
A Legacy of Acquisitions
By August 2022, Leonardo Hotels had grown to include over 160 properties across Europe, with a significant concentration in Germany. Several key acquisitions contributed to this impressive expansion, including the Jurys Inn chain (51 hotels in the UK and Ireland) and the Apollo Hotels group (13 hotels in the Netherlands and Belgium).
The success of Leonardo Hotels is a testament to the company’s commitment to providing exceptional hospitality experiences. Through strategic acquisitions, a focused vision, and a dedicated team, Leonardo Hotels continues to expand its presence in the global hospitality market, offering travelers a wide range of lodging choices across Europe and beyond.
