Leonardo Hotels is a thriving hotel chain with over 160 properties worldwide (as of August 2022). This impressive network is part of the Fattal Hotel Group, a testament to the vision and dedication of its founder, David Fattal.
The Story Begins
This ambitious journey began in 2006 when David Fattal, a seasoned hotelier from Haifa, Israel, established the Leonardo Hotels brand. He already had a successful tourism company, Fattal Holdings Ltd, based in Tel Aviv. The first Leonardo hotel opened its doors in Nuremberg, Germany, marking the start of a remarkable expansion. The brand’s unique name and logo were officially registered in Germany in 2007, followed by international registration the following year.
Expanding Horizons
Fattal’s vision extended beyond national borders. He embarked on a strategic acquisition strategy, initially focusing on hotels in Germany, Belgium, and Switzerland. Fueled by both company funds and external investments, Leonardo Hotels’ footprint continued to grow. The brand expanded into Israel around 2009, followed by Hungary in 2011, Austria in 2012, the UK in 2015, Spain and Italy in 2015, the Netherlands and the Czech Republic in 2016, Ireland and Poland in 2017, and Romania in 2021. The ambitious expansion plans didn’t stop there; in April 2022, the group announced a dedicated fund for further growth across Europe.
A Strong Foundation: The Fattal Holdings Network
The Leonardo Hotels brand is deeply rooted in the Fattal Holdings network, established in 1998. Sunflower Management GmbH & Co. KG, a wholly owned subsidiary, oversees the European operations. Ownership of Leonardo Hotels is shared between Fattal Holdings and its subsidiaries, with some properties leased. By 2021, Leonardo Hotels Central Europe alone employed over 2,700 people, reflecting the company’s significant impact on the hospitality industry.
Leadership and Vision: Guiding Leonardo Hotels to Success
Yoram Biton, a highly experienced leader born in Israel in 1967, oversees the Leonardo Hotels Central Europe business unit, based in Berlin. Under his leadership, the brand has evolved to include four distinct hotel categories: Leonardo Hotels, Leonardo Boutique Hotels, Leonardo Royal Hotels, and NYX Hotels by Leonardo Hotels.
A Growing Portfolio: Acquisitions and Milestones
As of August 2022, the Leonardo Hotels family boasts over 160 hotels, with a strong presence in Germany. The group has made notable acquisitions, including the Jurys Inn chain in the UK 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 on the Balearic Islands.
A Legacy of Growth and Innovation
Leonardo Hotels’ story is a testament to the power of vision, strategic growth, and a commitment to delivering exceptional hospitality experiences. From its humble beginnings in Nuremberg to its global presence today, the brand continues to expand and evolve, setting new standards in the hospitality industry. With a dedicated team, a clear vision, and a passion for excellence, Leonardo Hotels is poised for even greater success in the future.
