Leonardo Hotels, a renowned hotel chain headquartered in Berlin, boasts a remarkable network of over 160 hotels across the globe. Its story is a testament to the vision and drive of its founder, David Fattal, a seasoned hotelier with a keen eye for opportunity.
From Humble Beginnings to Global Dominance
The journey of Leonardo Hotels began in 2006 with the launch of its inaugural hotel in Nuremberg, Germany. David Fattal, at the helm of the Fattal Hotel Group, envisioned a brand that would resonate with discerning travelers seeking a blend of comfort, style, and convenience. The Leonardo Hotels brand was officially registered in 2007 in Germany, followed by international registration in 2008, signifying its ambition to conquer new frontiers.
Expanding Horizons: A Global Footprint
Fueled by a relentless pursuit of growth, the Fattal Hotel Group set its sights on international expansion. Starting with key locations in Germany, Belgium, and Switzerland, the company strategically acquired and transformed hotels, building a strong foundation for its global presence.
Fattal Holdings Ltd, the parent company, invested its own capital and leveraged funds to fuel the ambitious growth strategy. The expansion extended to Israel, where existing hotels were rebranded under the Leonardo Hotels banner. This was followed by a series of acquisitions and new hotel constructions in countries such as Hungary, Austria, Great Britain, Spain, Italy, the Netherlands, Czech Republic, Ireland, Poland, and Romania. This expansion was driven by a clear vision: to establish Leonardo Hotels as a leading player in the global hospitality industry.
A Strong Foundation: Ownership and Management
The Leonardo Hotels are carefully managed through the Sunflower Management GmbH & Co. KG, a wholly owned subsidiary of Fattal Holdings Ltd. This ensures consistent quality and service across the entire network. The hotels are either owned by Fattal Holdings or its subsidiaries, or they operate under lease agreements. This diversified ownership model provides flexibility and stability, allowing the company to effectively manage its assets.
Dedicated Team: Powering Growth
In 2021, the Leonardo Hotels Central Europe division alone employed over 2,700 individuals. This dedicated team, under the leadership of Yoram Biton, plays a crucial role in ensuring operational excellence and guest satisfaction.
A Family of Brands: Catering to Diverse Needs
The Leonardo Hotels brand family is diverse and caters to a wide range of traveler needs. It comprises four distinct brands: Leonardo Hotels, Leonardo Boutique Hotels, Leonardo Royal Hotels, and NYX Hotels by Leonardo Hotels. Each brand offers a unique experience, from the stylish and contemporary Leonardo Boutique Hotels to the luxurious Leonardo Royal Hotels.
Key Acquisitions: Shaping the Landscape
The Leonardo Hotels group has made several strategic acquisitions that have significantly expanded its portfolio and solidified its position in the market. These acquisitions include the Jurys Inn hotels in the United Kingdom and Ireland (51 hotels), the Apollo Hotels in the Netherlands and Belgium (13 hotels), and a portfolio of six hotels in the Balearic Islands. These strategic moves highlight the company’s commitment to expanding its presence in key regions and acquiring established brands with strong reputations.
A Legacy of Growth and Innovation
The story of Leonardo Hotels is a testament to the power of strategic planning, bold vision, and a commitment to excellence. From its humble beginnings, the company has built a global network of hotels, catering to a diverse range of travellers. Its ongoing expansion and innovation showcase its dedication to providing exceptional hospitality experiences, solidifying its place as a leading force in the international hotel industry.
