Leonardo Hotels is a hotel chain with a global presence, boasting over 160 properties (as of August 2022) and a growing network of hotels across Europe. Founded in 2006 by David Fattal, a seasoned hotelier from Haifa, Israel, Leonardo Hotels has become a major player in the hospitality industry.
The journey began with a single hotel in Nuremberg, Germany, in 2006. The iconic Leonardo Hotels brand was officially registered in 2007 and gained international recognition the following year. Fattal’s vision was to expand beyond Germany, and he started acquiring properties in Belgium and Switzerland.
This ambitious expansion plan was fueled by both internal investments and external funds. Over the years, Leonardo Hotels has established a firm presence across the European continent. The company expanded into Israel around 2009, followed by Hungary in 2011, Austria in 2012, the United Kingdom in 2015, Spain in 2015, Italy in 2015, the Netherlands in 2016, the Czech Republic in 2016, Ireland in 2017, Poland in 2017, and Romania in 2021. In April 2022, Leonardo Hotels announced a dedicated fund to further expand its reach across Europe.
A Family of Brands: More Than Just Hotels
Leonardo Hotels is part of the Fattal Holdings group, established in 1998. The company’s European operations are managed by its wholly-owned subsidiary, Sunflower Management GmbH & Co. KG. Whether owned directly by Fattal Holdings, its subsidiaries, or leased, Leonardo Hotels maintain a strong focus on providing quality accommodation.
The company employs a dedicated workforce of over 2,700 individuals in Central Europe alone, demonstrating its commitment to the region. Yoram Biton, the Managing Director of Leonardo Hotels Central Europe, is responsible for the brand’s success in this key market.
Leonardo Hotels has evolved into a family of brands, each catering to different traveler needs. In addition to the main Leonardo Hotels brand, the group also manages Leonardo Boutique Hotels, Leonardo Royal Hotels, and NYX Hotels by Leonardo Hotels. This diverse portfolio ensures that the company can cater to a wide range of travel preferences and budgets.
A History of Growth and Acquisition
As of August 2022, the Leonardo Hotels group boasts over 160 hotels, with a strong concentration in Germany. Several major acquisitions have played a significant role in shaping the company’s growth trajectory. These include the acquisition of Jurys Inn hotels in the United Kingdom and Ireland (51 hotels, as of April 2022), Apollo Hotels in the Netherlands and Belgium (13 hotels, as of August 2018), and a portfolio of six hotels in the Balearic Islands.
Leonardo Hotels’ commitment to expansion is evident in its ongoing acquisition strategy and its dedicated fund for future growth. With its diverse portfolio of brands, strategic acquisitions, and strong leadership, Leonardo Hotels continues to shape the global hospitality landscape, providing exceptional accommodations and experiences for travelers worldwide.
