The world of hospitality is constantly evolving, and one hotel group stands out for its ambitious global expansion: Leonardo Hotels. Founded in 2006 by Israeli hotelier David Fattal, Leonardo Hotels has grown from a single property in Germany to a network of over 160 hotels spanning across Europe.
This success story began with Fattal’s existing travel company, Fattal Holdings, based in Tel Aviv. Driven by a vision to expand internationally, Fattal launched Leonardo Hotels, acquiring properties in Germany, Belgium, and Switzerland. He funded this growth through a combination of personal capital and investments from external funds.
Expansion Across Europe
Leonardo Hotels didn’t stop there. The company swiftly expanded its footprint across Europe, acquiring, rebranding, and building hotels in various countries:
- Israel: Around 2009, Leonardo Hotels began rebranding existing properties in Israel.
- Hungary: Expansion into Hungary started in 2011.
- Austria: The company entered the Austrian market in 2012.
- United Kingdom: Leonardo Hotels entered the British market in 2015.
- Spain: The company expanded into Spain, starting in 2015.
- Italy: Leonardo Hotels began operating in Italy in 2015.
- Netherlands: The Netherlands became part of Leonardo’s portfolio in 2016.
- Czech Republic: The company expanded into the Czech Republic in 2016.
- Ireland: Ireland became a part of the Leonardo network in 2017.
- Poland: The company expanded into Poland in 2017.
- Romania: The latest expansion came in 2021, with Leonardo Hotels entering the Romanian market.
The Power of Strategic Acquisitions
Leonardo Hotels has a history of strategic acquisitions, which have significantly contributed to its growth. Notably, the group acquired the Jurys Inn chain in the UK and Ireland, adding 51 hotels to its portfolio. The acquisition of Apollo Hotels in the Netherlands and Belgium further strengthened Leonardo’s presence in these countries.
The company’s dedication to growth is evident in their announcement of a new fund in April 2022, specifically aimed at driving further expansion across Europe.
A Well-Established Organization
Behind the success of Leonardo Hotels is a strong organizational structure. The hotel group is a subsidiary of Fattal Holdings, and its operations in Europe are overseen by Sunflower Management GmbH & Co. KG. The majority of Leonardo Hotels are either owned by Fattal Holdings or its subsidiaries, or are operated under lease agreements. The company employs a sizable workforce, with over 2,700 people working for Leonardo Hotels Central Europe alone in 2021.
A Brand Family with Variety
Leonardo Hotels is not just a single brand, but a family of four distinct hotel brands:
- Leonardo Hotels: Offering a wide range of accommodations, catering to diverse needs.
- Leonardo Boutique Hotels: Focused on design-conscious travelers, featuring stylish accommodations and amenities.
- Leonardo Royal Hotels: Delivering upscale experiences with luxurious amenities and attentive service.
- NYX Hotels by Leonardo Hotels: Targeting the younger generation, featuring vibrant design and a social atmosphere.
This variety allows Leonardo Hotels to cater to a wider range of customers, meeting their individual preferences and needs.
Continued Growth and Innovation
Leonardo Hotels continues to expand its network and offerings, showcasing a commitment to innovation and a dedication to providing exceptional guest experiences. With a strong track record of growth and a focus on strategic partnerships, the future of Leonardo Hotels looks promising. The company is well-positioned to continue expanding its presence across Europe and beyond, offering a diverse range of hotels to cater to the evolving needs of travelers worldwide.
