Leonardo Hotels, a hotel chain with over 160 properties worldwide, has come a long way since its humble beginnings. Founded in 2006 by Israeli entrepreneur David Fattal, this impressive hospitality empire boasts a rich history of growth and expansion.
From Humble Beginnings to Global Dominance
The journey of Leonardo Hotels began in 2006 with the opening of its first hotel in Nuremberg, Germany. This marked the start of Fattal’s ambition to create a global hotel brand. The name “Leonardo” was registered as a trademark in Germany in 2007, followed by international registration a year later.
Fueled by Fattal’s vision, the company quickly expanded its footprint across Europe. Early acquisitions focused on Germany, Belgium, and Switzerland. This initial success paved the way for further ventures, including rebranding hotels in Israel and establishing new properties in Hungary, Austria, the UK, Spain, Italy, the Netherlands, Czech Republic, Ireland, Poland, and Romania. This impressive growth trajectory solidified Leonardo Hotels as a major player in the European hotel market.
A Global Expansion Fueled by Ambition
Driven by a continuous drive for growth, Leonardo Hotels announced the creation of a dedicated fund in 2022. This fund, designed to facilitate further expansion across Europe, reflects the company’s unwavering commitment to expanding its reach and becoming a truly global hotel player.
A Family of Brands with a Global Reach
Behind the impressive expansion of Leonardo Hotels lies a strong foundation: the Fattal Holdings group. This parent company oversees a diverse portfolio of brands, with Leonardo Hotels being a key part of the family. The company employs over 2,700 people worldwide, highlighting its significant impact on the global economy.
The Leonardo Hotels brand is further bolstered by its diverse portfolio of hotel brands: Leonardo Hotels, Leonardo Boutique Hotels, Leonardo Royal Hotels, and NYX Hotels by Leonardo Hotels. This diverse range of offerings caters to a wide variety of travelers, from budget-conscious adventurers to discerning luxury seekers.
A History of Strategic Acquisitions
Leonardo Hotels’ success is built on a series of strategic acquisitions that have significantly broadened its portfolio. Notable acquisitions include the Jurys Inn chain (51 hotels in the UK and Ireland), the Apollo Hotels in the Netherlands and Belgium, and a portfolio of six hotels in the Balearic Islands. These strategic moves have solidified Leonardo Hotels’ position as a global hotel giant.
A Journey of Growth and Innovation
The story of Leonardo Hotels is a testament to the power of ambition and strategic planning. From its humble beginnings in Germany to its current status as a global hotel leader, the company has consistently exceeded expectations. This journey of growth and innovation continues, driven by a commitment to providing exceptional guest experiences and expanding its presence across the globe.