Leonardo Hotels, a global hotel chain with over 160 properties, has its roots in Berlin. This impressive network belongs to the Fattal Hotel Group, a company founded in 2006 by the visionary Israeli entrepreneur, David Fattal. He already owned the successful Fattal Holdings Ltd, a travel and tourism company based in Tel Aviv.
From Germany to Global Expansion
The first Leonardo Hotel opened its doors in Nuremberg in 2006. The company’s unique name and logo were officially registered in Germany in 2007, followed by international registration the next year. With the launch of Leonardo Hotels, Fattal embarked on an ambitious international expansion strategy.
The journey began by acquiring hotels primarily in Germany, Belgium, and Switzerland. Fueled by a combination of internal funds and investments from various sources, the Fattal Group continued its expansion, acquiring and building hotels across Europe.
Leonardo Hotels started in Germany but quickly spread its wings, expanding to Hungary, Austria, Great Britain, Spain, Italy, the Netherlands, Czech Republic, Ireland, Poland, and Romania. Their ambitious vision includes the launch of a new fund specifically designed to facilitate further growth throughout Europe.
A Well-Established Structure
Leonardo Hotels operate under the umbrella of Fattal Holdings (1998) Ltd., with its European operations managed by its wholly-owned subsidiary, Sunflower Management GmbH & Co. KG. Leonardo Hotels are either owned by Fattal Holdings or its subsidiaries, or they are operated under lease agreements.
The company’s commitment to its workforce is evident in its impressive employee count. In 2021 alone, Leonardo Hotels Central Europe employed over 2,700 people.
Leading the Way: Yoram Biton and the Brand Family
The Leonardo Hotels family boasts a diverse range of hotel brands, with each tailored to offer unique experiences. Yoram Biton, Managing Director of Leonardo Hotels Central Europe based in Berlin, leads the team responsible for these diverse hotel brands. Under his leadership, Leonardo Hotels, Leonardo Boutique Hotels, Leonardo Royal Hotels, and NYX Hotels by Leonardo Hotels have become synonymous with quality and hospitality.
A Legacy of Acquisitions and Growth
By August 2022, Leonardo Hotels boasted over 160 hotels, including its various sub-brands. Germany held the largest concentration of hotels within the group. Some of the most significant acquisitions include the Jurys Inn chain in the United Kingdom and Ireland (51 hotels), the Apollo Hotels in the Netherlands and Belgium (13 hotels), and a portfolio of six hotels in the Balearic Islands.
Leonardo Hotels is a testament to David Fattal’s vision and the company’s commitment to creating a world-class hospitality experience. With a solid foundation and a strategic expansion plan, Leonardo Hotels continues to grow, expanding its presence across Europe and beyond. This commitment to excellence and growth ensures Leonardo Hotels remains a force to be reckoned with in the global hospitality market.
