Leonardo Hotels is a popular hotel chain with over 160 properties (as of August 2022), boasting a presence across various European countries. It’s a part of the Fattal Hotel Group, a global powerhouse in the hospitality industry.
From Humble Beginnings to Global Expansion
The roots of Leonardo Hotels can be traced back to 2006 when David Fattal, a visionary hotelier, established the company. Fattal, hailing from Haifa, Israel, already had a successful tourism business under his belt, Fattal Holdings Ltd, headquartered in Tel Aviv. His ambition extended beyond Israel, leading him to launch the first Leonardo hotel in Nuremberg, Germany, in 2006. This bold move marked the beginning of the brand’s international journey.
The name “Leonardo” was carefully chosen and registered as a trademark in Germany in 2007. This was followed by international registration in 2008. The name embodies the brand’s commitment to quality, elegance, and service, echoing the spirit of Leonardo da Vinci.
A Rapid Expansion Across Europe
Fattal’s vision for Leonardo Hotels was clear: to become a major player in the European hospitality market. His strategic expansion involved a combination of acquisitions, rebranding, and new construction. The company quickly expanded its footprint across Germany, Belgium, and Switzerland. By 2009, Leonardo Hotels had established itself in Israel, further strengthening its presence.
The years that followed saw rapid expansion into new markets: Hungary (from 2011), Austria (from 2012), the United Kingdom (from 2015), Spain (from 2015), Italy (since 2015), the Netherlands (since 2016), the Czech Republic (since 2016), Ireland (since 2017), Poland (since 2017), and Romania (since 2021).
The growth of Leonardo Hotels wasn’t solely driven by organic expansion. The company leveraged strategic partnerships and investments. Funding came from both internal resources and external sources, including investment funds. This blend of financial strategies allowed the company to fuel its ambitious growth plans and expand into new markets.
A Strong Foundation for Continued Success
Leonardo Hotels is a part of the larger Fattal Holdings group, which was established in 1998. The hotel chain’s European operations are managed by Sunflower Management GmbH & Co. KG, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Fattal Holdings.
The ownership structure of Leonardo Hotels is diverse. Some hotels are owned directly by Fattal Holdings or its subsidiaries, while others are leased. This strategy allows for flexibility and diversification, enabling the company to adapt to market conditions and acquire properties that fit its vision.
The impressive growth of Leonardo Hotels is reflected in its workforce. As of 2021, Leonardo Hotels Central Europe alone employed over 2,700 people. This dedication to a large and diverse workforce underscores the company’s commitment to its employees and its ambition to create a positive and inclusive work environment.
Leadership and Brand Portfolio
Yoram Biton, a veteran of the hospitality industry, leads the charge as Managing Director of Leonardo Hotels Central Europe, based in Berlin. He’s responsible for overseeing the operations of the entire European division.
Leonardo Hotels has evolved into a family of brands, offering a diverse range of hotel experiences. As of August 2022, the brand family includes four distinct brands: Leonardo Hotels, Leonardo Boutique Hotels, Leonardo Royal Hotels, and NYX Hotels by Leonardo Hotels. This allows the company to cater to a wider range of guests and their preferences.
Major Acquisitions and a Future Focused on Growth
By August 2022, Leonardo Hotels had amassed a collection of over 160 hotels, with a significant number located in German cities. The company’s impressive growth was aided by strategic acquisitions, including:
- Jurys Inn: Acquired in 2022, this acquisition brought 51 hotels in the UK and Ireland under the Leonardo umbrella, significantly expanding the company’s presence in these key markets.
- Apollo Hotels: This 2018 acquisition of 13 hotels in the Netherlands and Belgium strengthened Leonardo Hotels’ presence in these neighboring countries.
- Balearic Islands Portfolio: In 2022, Leonardo Hotels acquired six hotels in the Balearic Islands, boosting its footprint in this popular tourist destination.
The future of Leonardo Hotels appears bright. The company has announced plans to further expand its operations across Europe. This expansion is fueled by a dedicated investment fund, showcasing the company’s commitment to continued growth and its vision for a more extensive presence in the European hospitality market.
This commitment to innovation, strategic acquisitions, and a diverse brand portfolio positions Leonardo Hotels as a key player in the global hotel industry, poised for continued success and expansion.
