Leonardo Hotels, a prominent name in the hospitality industry, has become a global force, boasting over 160 hotels across Europe, and beyond. This impressive feat is the brainchild of David Fattal, a visionary hotelier from Haifa, Israel.
From Humble Beginnings to Global Expansion
Fattal’s journey began in 2006 when he launched the Leonardo Hotels brand, adding it to his already flourishing tourism enterprise, Fattal Holdings Ltd, based in Tel Aviv. The first hotel opened its doors in Nuremberg, Germany. The Leonardo Hotels brand quickly gained recognition, securing a trademark in Germany in 2007 and extending its reach internationally the following year.
The Leonardo Hotels journey to become a global player was marked by strategic acquisitions, starting in Germany, Belgium, and Switzerland. The Fattal Group’s commitment to growth saw it expand further, acquiring properties in Israel around 2009. From 2011 onwards, the group continued to acquire and build hotels across Europe, including Hungary, Austria, the United Kingdom, Spain, Italy, the Netherlands, the Czech Republic, Ireland, Poland, and Romania. The company’s unwavering ambition is evident in its 2022 announcement of a dedicated fund to fuel further expansion across Europe.
A Family Affair: The Fattal Group
Leonardo Hotels are part of the Fattal Holdings family, with its European operations managed by Sunflower Management GmbH & Co. KG. The hotels are either owned by Fattal Holdings or its subsidiaries or operated under lease agreements. In 2021 alone, Leonardo Hotels Central Europe employed over 2,700 people, reflecting its substantial size and impact on the hospitality landscape.
Leading the Way: Yoram Biton and the Leonardo Brand Family
Yoram Biton, the Managing Director of Leonardo Hotels Central Europe, has been instrumental in shaping the company’s success. With its headquarters in Berlin, Leonardo Hotels has become a key player in the European market. The brand offers a diverse portfolio of hotels, catering to different needs and preferences, with four distinct brands: Leonardo Hotels, Leonardo Boutique Hotels, Leonardo Royal Hotels, and NYX Hotels by Leonardo Hotels.
A Legacy of Acquisitions and Growth
Leonardo Hotels has become a powerhouse in the hotel industry, thanks to its strategic acquisitions. Notably, the acquisition of Jurys Inn in the UK and Ireland in 2022 added 51 hotels to its portfolio, solidifying its position as a major player in the region. The acquisition of Apollo Hotels in the Netherlands and Belgium in 2018 further enhanced its presence in these markets. The company’s continued growth is evident in its recent acquisition of six hotel properties in the Balearic Islands, further expanding its reach in Spain.
Leonardo Hotels continues to be a dynamic and ambitious force in the hospitality industry, with a strong commitment to expansion and innovation. Its strategic acquisitions, global reach, and diverse brand portfolio make it a formidable player in the ever-evolving world of travel and tourism.
