Leonardo Hotels is a hotel chain with a story that’s as captivating as its stunning properties. Founded in 2006 by David Fattal, a renowned hotelier, the company has grown into a global powerhouse, with over 160 hotels across Europe and beyond.
This article will take you on a journey through the history of Leonardo Hotels, exploring its humble beginnings, its ambitious expansion, and its commitment to providing top-notch hospitality experiences. Get ready to be impressed by the remarkable growth of this hotel chain!
A Humble Beginning: From Haifa to Nuremberg
The story of Leonardo Hotels starts with a visionary hotelier named David Fattal. Born in Haifa, Israel, Fattal already had a successful background in the tourism industry, running the Fattal Holdings Ltd company based in Tel Aviv. In 2006, driven by his ambition to expand into the European market, Fattal took a bold step and launched his first hotel in Nuremberg, Germany.
This marked the beginning of a remarkable journey, and the Leonardo Hotels brand was officially registered in 2007 in Germany, followed by an international registration in 2008. With the establishment of Leonardo Hotels, Fattal was poised to make his mark on the global hotel scene.
Rapid Expansion: A European Conquest
From its initial presence in Germany, Leonardo Hotels embarked on a whirlwind of expansion. The company acquired existing hotels and built new ones, quickly establishing a presence across Europe. It began with Germany, Belgium, and Switzerland, expanding its reach to new markets, including Hungary, Austria, the United Kingdom, Spain, Italy, the Netherlands, Czech Republic, Ireland, Poland, and Romania.
Fattal’s ambition and a strategic blend of self-funding and investments from external funds fueled this rapid growth. By 2021, Leonardo Hotels Central Europe, the company’s European branch, employed over 2,700 people. The company’s unwavering commitment to expansion was further solidified in April 2022 with the announcement of a new fund dedicated to furthering its presence in Europe.
A Family of Brands: Catering to Every Traveler
Leonardo Hotels isn’t just one brand, but a family of hotels, each offering a unique experience tailored to different travelers. Under the umbrella of Leonardo Hotels, the company operates four distinct brands: Leonardo Hotels, Leonardo Boutique Hotels, Leonardo Royal Hotels, and NYX Hotels by Leonardo Hotels.
This multi-brand strategy allows the company to cater to a wide range of travelers, offering luxury, boutique, and modern accommodations.
Key Acquisitions: Shaping the Hotel Landscape
Leonardo Hotels’ remarkable growth has been driven by strategic acquisitions of existing hotel chains and individual properties. Some of the most notable acquisitions include the Jurys Inn chain in the United Kingdom and Ireland, the Apollo Hotels in the Netherlands and Belgium, and a portfolio of six hotels in the Balearic Islands.
These acquisitions have significantly boosted Leonardo Hotels’ presence in key European markets, solidifying its position as a leading hotel chain in the region.
A Legacy of Hospitality: The Future is Bright
Leonardo Hotels has come a long way since its humble beginnings. From a small venture launched in 2006, the company has grown into a global hotel empire, renowned for its dedication to quality and innovation. With a strong team, a commitment to expansion, and a portfolio of brands catering to diverse travelers, Leonardo Hotels is poised to continue its journey of success, creating unforgettable experiences for travelers worldwide.
