Leonardo Hotels is a popular hotel chain with over 160 locations across Europe. The company is a significant player in the hospitality industry, having grown from a single hotel in 2006 to a global network spanning multiple countries. The success of Leonardo Hotels is a testament to the vision and strategic efforts of its founder, David Fattal.
A Vision Takes Shape: The Birth of Leonardo Hotels
David Fattal, an experienced hotelier from Haifa, Israel, established the Fattal Hotel Group in 2006. This marked the beginning of a remarkable journey that saw the development of the Leonardo Hotels brand. Fattal, with his existing tourism company, Fattal Holdings Ltd., based in Tel Aviv, had already garnered considerable expertise in the industry.
The first Leonardo Hotel opened its doors in Nuremberg, Germany, in 2006. This marked a significant step forward for the company as it solidified its presence in the European market. The brand’s distinctive logo and name were officially registered in Germany in 2007, followed by international registration in 2008.
A Global Expansion: Reaching New Horizons
With the launch of Leonardo Hotels, Fattal embarked on an ambitious plan to expand his hotel portfolio internationally. He strategically acquired hotels in key European locations, starting with Germany, Belgium, and Switzerland. The expansion, funded by both internal resources and external investments, continued at a steady pace.
Leonardo Hotels 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. The company’s ambitious expansion strategy was further fueled by the launch of a dedicated fund in April 2022, specifically designed to support further growth across Europe.
A Strong Foundation: The Leonardo Hotels Structure
Leonardo Hotels is part of the Fattal Holdings (1998) Ltd. group, a testament to its commitment to long-term growth and stability. Its European operations are managed by its 100% subsidiary, Sunflower Management GmbH & Co. KG.
The hotels themselves are either owned by Fattal Holdings or its subsidiary companies or are leased. With a workforce exceeding 2,700 employees in Central Europe alone as of 2021, Leonardo Hotels demonstrates its commitment to providing exceptional service and fostering a strong team environment.
A Family of Brands: Catering to Diverse Needs
Leonardo Hotels has developed a diverse range of brands to cater to a wide range of travelers. The brand family includes Leonardo Hotels, Leonardo Boutique Hotels, Leonardo Royal Hotels, and NYX Hotels by Leonardo Hotels. Each brand offers a unique experience, ensuring that guests can find the perfect accommodation to suit their preferences and travel needs.
Major Acquisitions: Expanding the Portfolio
Leonardo Hotels’ commitment to growth has been evident in its strategic acquisitions. Some of the most significant acquisitions include the Jurys Inn brand in the United Kingdom and Ireland, adding 51 hotels to the portfolio in 2022.
Additionally, the company acquired Apollo Hotels in the Netherlands and Belgium, adding 13 hotels to its portfolio in 2018. The purchase of six hotels on the Balearic Islands further cemented Leonardo Hotels’ presence in Spain.
A Successful Journey: Leonardo Hotels Today
From its humble beginnings in Nuremberg to its global network today, Leonardo Hotels has come a long way. The company’s success is a direct result of its founder’s vision, strategic acquisitions, and commitment to providing exceptional customer service. As Leonardo Hotels continues to expand and innovate, it is poised to become a leading force in the hospitality industry for years to come.
