This article delves into the captivating journey of Leonardo Hotels, a hotel chain with over 160 properties, showcasing its remarkable growth story and international expansion.
From Humble Beginnings to Global Presence
Leonardo Hotels, headquartered in Berlin, traces its roots back to 2006 when the visionary hotelier, David Fattal, established the group. At the time, Fattal was already a prominent figure in the travel industry, leading the Tel Aviv-based company Fattal Holdings Ltd. The first Leonardo Hotel opened its doors in Nuremberg, Germany. The brand’s distinctive logo was officially registered in 2007 with the German Patent and Trademark Office, followed by international registration a year later.
A Global Expansion Strategy: Acquiring and Building
The launch of Leonardo Hotels marked the beginning of Fattal’s ambitious plan to expand internationally. The group initially focused on acquiring hotels in Germany, Belgium, and Switzerland. Fueled by internal funds and external investments, Leonardo’s expansion continued with rebranding of hotels in Israel around 2009. The group further expanded its reach through acquisitions and new construction projects in Hungary (2011), Austria (2012), the United Kingdom (2015), Spain (2015), Italy (2015), the Netherlands (2016), the Czech Republic (2016), Ireland (2017), Poland (2017), and Romania (2021). In April 2022, the hotel group announced a new fund dedicated to further expanding its European presence.
A Powerful Network: Ownership, Management, and Staff
Leonardo Hotels operates under the umbrella of Fattal Holdings, a company established in 1998. The group’s European operations are managed by its 100% subsidiary, Sunflower Management GmbH & Co. KG. Most of the Leonardo Hotels are either owned by Fattal Holdings or its subsidiaries, or they are leased. In 2021, Leonardo Hotels Central Europe employed over 2,700 people.
Leading the Way: Management and Brand Portfolio
Yoram Biton, born in 1967 in Israel, leads the Leonardo Hotels Central Europe business unit, based in Berlin. The Leonardo Hotels brand family encompasses four distinct brands: Leonardo Hotels, Leonardo Boutique Hotels, Leonardo Royal Hotels, and NYX Hotels by Leonardo Hotels.
Major Acquisitions: Expanding the Portfolio
As of August 2022, the Leonardo Hotel group boasts over 160 properties across its main brand and sub-brands, with a significant concentration in German cities. The group’s most significant acquisitions include the Jurys Inn brand in the United Kingdom and Ireland (51 hotels, as of April 2022), the Apollo Hotels in the Netherlands and Belgium (13 hotels, as of August 2018), and a portfolio of six hotels in the Balearic Islands.
Conclusion
Leonardo Hotels’ remarkable growth story is a testament to the group’s strategic vision, commitment to quality, and unwavering pursuit of expansion. From its humble beginnings to its present status as a global leader, Leonardo Hotels has consistently expanded its footprint across Europe, solidifying its position as a major player in the hospitality industry. With a diverse brand portfolio, a dedicated team, and a strong commitment to customer satisfaction, Leonardo Hotels is poised to continue its impressive growth trajectory in the years to come.
