Leonardo Hotels, a prominent hotel chain with over 160 properties (as of August 2022), has grown into a global force. Based in Berlin, it’s part of the Fattal Hotel Group, a testament to the vision of its founder, David Fattal. This captivating story of ambition and expansion is worth exploring.
From Humble Beginnings to International Recognition
David Fattal, an experienced hotelier originally from Haifa, Israel, established the Fattal Hotel Group in 2006. His previous venture, Fattal Holdings Ltd, a tourism company based in Tel Aviv, provided the foundation for this new endeavor. The first Leonardo Hotel opened its doors in Nuremberg, Germany, marking the beginning of a remarkable journey. The brand’s unique identity was solidified in 2007 when it was registered with the German Patent and Trademark Office, followed by international registration in 2008.
A Global Footprint: Expanding the Horizon
The Leonardo Hotels brand became a catalyst for Fattal’s international expansion strategy. The company acquired hotels, initially focusing on Germany, Belgium, and Switzerland. This ambitious growth, fueled by both internal funds and external investments, continued at a rapid pace. By 2009, hotels in Israel were brought under the Leonardo banner. The expansion further accelerated with acquisitions and new constructions in Hungary (2011), Austria (2012), the United Kingdom (2015), Spain (2015), Italy (2015), the Netherlands (2016), Czech Republic (2016), Ireland (2017), Poland (2017), and Romania (2021). The group’s commitment to expansion is unwavering, as evidenced by the announcement of a new fund in April 2022, specifically intended to support further growth across Europe.
A Consolidated Empire: Structure and Management
The Leonardo Hotels chain is an integral part of the Fattal Holdings (1998) Ltd. Its wholly-owned subsidiary, Sunflower Management GmbH & Co. KG, serves as the administrative hub for operations in Europe. Ownership of Leonardo Hotels properties is held by either Fattal Holdings or one of its subsidiaries, or they are managed through lease agreements. The company’s significant workforce is highlighted by the 2,700 employees working solely within the Leonardo Hotels Central Europe division in 2021.
A Family of Brands: Catering to Diverse Needs
Yoram Biton, the Managing Director of Leonardo Hotels Central Europe, leads the business unit from its headquarters in Berlin. He oversees a diverse portfolio of brands that cater to a wide range of travelers. The Leonardo Hotels family includes four distinct brands: Leonardo Hotels, Leonardo Boutique Hotels, Leonardo Royal Hotels, and NYX Hotels by Leonardo Hotels. This diverse collection allows the company to offer a range of accommodations to suit various budgets and preferences.
Notable Acquisitions: Shaping the Landscape
By August 2022, the Leonardo Hotels group, encompassing the main brand and its sub-brands, boasted over 160 hotels. The majority of these properties are located in German cities, reflecting the brand’s strong presence in the country. The group’s impressive growth is also underscored by notable acquisitions, including the Jurys Inn brand in the United Kingdom and Ireland (51 hotels), Apollo Hotels in the Netherlands and Belgium (13 hotels), and a portfolio of six hotels on the Balearic Islands. These strategic acquisitions have significantly contributed to the group’s impressive size and global reach.
Conclusion: A Journey of Growth and Innovation
The Leonardo Hotels story is a remarkable journey of growth and innovation. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a major player in the global hotel industry, the company has demonstrated a strong commitment to expansion and excellence. The Fattal Hotel Group, under the leadership of David Fattal, continues to be a driving force behind the Leonardo Hotels success, constantly seeking new opportunities to expand its reach and provide exceptional hospitality experiences to travelers worldwide.
