Leonardo Hotels is a prominent hotel chain with a remarkable journey from humble beginnings to a global presence. It all started in 2006 with the vision of David Fattal, a seasoned hotelier, who aimed to expand his portfolio beyond his native Israel. This ambitious dream gave birth to Leonardo Hotels, a brand now boasting over 160 properties worldwide.
From Local Roots to International Expansion
Born out of Fattal Holdings Ltd, a successful Israeli tourism company, Leonardo Hotels quickly established its presence in Europe. The first hotel opened its doors in Nuremberg, Germany, in 2006, laying the foundation for the brand’s international expansion. With a focus on acquiring and building hotels, the brand steadily expanded across Europe, reaching countries like Belgium and Switzerland in the early years.
A Rapidly Growing Network
The pace of expansion accelerated in the following years. The brand’s footprint extended to Hungary, Austria, Great Britain, Spain, Italy, the Netherlands, Czech Republic, Ireland, Poland, and Romania, showcasing a strategic focus on key European markets. The commitment to expansion continued as the hotel chain announced the launch of a dedicated fund to further its growth across Europe.
Strong Foundations and Leading Figures
The success of Leonardo Hotels is rooted in the strong financial backing of Fattal Holdings Ltd. The company’s subsidiary, Sunflower Management GmbH & Co. KG, manages the European operations, ensuring smooth functioning across the network. With over 2,700 employees, particularly in Central Europe, Leonardo Hotels has a dedicated workforce driving its operations.
Yoram Biton, Managing Director of Leonardo Hotels Central Europe, spearheads the brand’s growth, ensuring the smooth running of the numerous properties. Under his leadership, the company has established a diverse family of hotel brands: Leonardo Hotels, Leonardo Boutique Hotels, Leonardo Royal Hotels, and NYX Hotels by Leonardo Hotels.
Major Acquisitions Fueling Growth
Leonardo Hotels’ growth story is marked by strategic acquisitions, including the Jurys Inn hotel chain in the UK and Ireland, adding 51 properties to its portfolio. The acquisition of Apollo Hotels in the Netherlands and Belgium further strengthened its presence in these markets. The brand also acquired a portfolio of six hotels in the Balearic Islands, demonstrating its commitment to expanding into popular tourist destinations.
From Local Beginnings to International Success
Leonardo Hotels’ journey is a testament to the power of vision and strategic execution. From a single hotel in Germany to a global network of over 160 properties, the brand has established a strong presence in key European markets. With a dedicated workforce and ambitious growth plans, Leonardo Hotels is poised to further strengthen its position as a leading player in the global hospitality industry.
