Leonardo Hotels, a prominent hotel chain boasting over 160 properties worldwide (as of August 2022), has become a familiar sight in major cities across Europe. This impressive network is a testament to the vision of its founder, David Fattal, a seasoned hotelier from Haifa, Israel.
From Humble Beginnings to Global Dominance
Fattal’s entrepreneurial spirit, already evident in his leadership of the tourism company Fattal Holdings Ltd based in Tel Aviv, led him to establish Leonardo Hotels in 2006. The first property opened its doors in Nuremberg, Germany, marking the beginning of a rapid expansion. The distinct Leonardo Hotels brand was officially registered in 2007 with the German Patent and Trademark Office, followed by international registration in 2008.
Fattal’s ambition extended beyond national borders. He strategically acquired hotels in Germany, Belgium, and Switzerland, setting the stage for a global presence. The expansion, fuelled by both internal funds and external investments, continued with remarkable speed. Leonardo Hotels established a presence in Israel in 2009, followed by Hungary (2011), Austria (2012), the United Kingdom (2015), Spain (2015), Italy (2015), the Netherlands (2016), Czech Republic (2016), Ireland (2017), Poland (2017), and Romania (2021). This ambitious growth trajectory underscores the company’s commitment to becoming a leading force in the hospitality industry.
A Strong Foundation: Structure and Leadership
Leonardo Hotels operates under the umbrella of Fattal Holdings (1998) Ltd, with its European operations managed by the wholly owned subsidiary Sunflower Management GmbH & Co. KG. The hotels are either owned directly by Fattal Holdings or its subsidiaries, or operate under lease agreements. The company boasts a significant workforce, employing over 2,700 people at Leonardo Hotels Central Europe alone in 2021.
Yoram Biton, a seasoned professional with a deep understanding of the hospitality industry, serves as Managing Director for the Business Unit Leonardo Hotels Central Europe, headquartered in Berlin. Under his leadership, the brand has diversified, establishing four distinct hotel brands: Leonardo Hotels, Leonardo Boutique Hotels, Leonardo Royal Hotels, and NYX Hotels by Leonardo Hotels.
A Legacy of Acquisitions and Expansion
As of August 2022, Leonardo Hotels, including its various sub-brands, boasts a portfolio of over 160 properties, with Germany emerging as a key market. The company’s strategic acquisitions have significantly contributed to its growth. Notably, these include the Jurys Inn brand (51 hotels in the UK and Ireland acquired in April 2022), the Apollo Hotels chain (13 properties in the Netherlands and Belgium acquired in August 2018), and a portfolio of six hotels on the Balearic Islands.
Leonardo Hotels’ remarkable journey is a testament to the vision and dedication of its founder and his team. With a focus on strategic expansion, innovative branding, and a strong commitment to providing quality hospitality experiences, the company is well positioned to continue its impressive growth trajectory in the years to come.
