Leonardo Hotels, a globally recognized hotel chain, has grown from a single hotel in Nuremberg to a massive network spanning Europe. This remarkable journey began in 2006, the brainchild of David Fattal, a hotelier with a vision. Based in Berlin, Leonardo Hotels operates under the umbrella of Fattal Holdings, a powerhouse in the tourism industry.
From One Hotel to a Network of Dreams
David Fattal, an entrepreneur hailing from Haifa, Israel, had already established Fattal Holdings, a successful tourism company based in Tel Aviv. In 2006, he took the bold step of launching Leonardo Hotels, starting with a single hotel in Nuremberg, Germany. The company’s commitment to quality and its unique brand identity were quickly recognized, as the “Leonardo Hotels” name and logo were officially registered in Germany in 2007, with international registration following in 2008.
A European Expansion Fueled by Ambition
The success of the initial hotel sparked a rapid expansion across Europe. Leonardo Hotels expanded their portfolio, starting with Germany, Belgium, and Switzerland. This growth wasn’t just about adding properties; it was about building a global brand. The company used a combination of their own funds and investments from various financial institutions to fuel their ambitious plans. The expansion reached Israel in 2009, followed by a string of new hotels and acquisitions in Hungary, Austria, Great Britain, Spain, Italy, the Netherlands, Czech Republic, Ireland, Poland, and most recently, Romania in 2021.
A Firm Foundation: Ownership and Management
Leonardo Hotels is an integral part of Fattal Holdings, with Sunflower Management GmbH & Co. KG serving as the management company in Europe. This strong, well-structured foundation ensures the smooth operation of the vast hotel network. The company holds a significant number of its hotels, with some being leased. In 2021 alone, Leonardo Hotels Central Europe employed over 2,700 individuals, reflecting the company’s commitment to its workforce and its contribution to the local economies.
A Family of Brands: Quality and Diversity
Under the Leonardo Hotels umbrella, four distinct brands cater to different traveler needs: Leonardo Hotels, Leonardo Boutique Hotels, Leonardo Royal Hotels, and NYX Hotels by Leonardo Hotels. This diverse portfolio ensures that Leonardo Hotels can offer the right accommodation for every type of traveler, whether they’re looking for a budget-friendly stay, a stylish boutique experience, or a luxury escape.
Building an Empire: Key Acquisitions and Growth
The impressive growth of Leonardo Hotels is evident in its significant acquisitions. The integration of Jurys Inn hotels in the United Kingdom and Ireland (51 hotels), Apollo Hotels in the Netherlands and Belgium (13 hotels), and six hotels in the Balearic Islands propelled the company to its current position as a major force in the European hotel industry.
Leonardo Hotels: A Legacy of Hospitality
Leonardo Hotels has come a long way from its humble beginnings. The company’s focus on quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction has cemented its position as a leader in the hospitality industry. The company continues to grow, with plans for further expansion in Europe and beyond. This ambitious journey is a testament to the vision of David Fattal and the dedicated team behind Leonardo Hotels. Their commitment to providing exceptional experiences for travelers worldwide will undoubtedly continue to shape the future of hospitality.
