Leonardo Hotels, a hotel chain based in Berlin, has grown into a global powerhouse with over 160 hotels under its umbrella (as of August 2022). This ambitious venture is a testament to the vision and determination of its founder, David Fattal.
The Journey Begins:
David Fattal, a seasoned hotelier hailing from Haifa, Israel, established the Fattal Hotel Group in 2006. He was already leading the tourism-focused Fattal Holdings Ltd, headquartered in Tel Aviv. The first Leonardo Hotel opened its doors in Nuremberg, Germany that same year. This marked the beginning of a journey that would span continents and redefine the hotel experience.
A Global Footprint:
The Leonardo Hotels brand became the vehicle for Fattal’s international expansion strategy. The initial focus was on Germany, with further ventures expanding into Belgium and Switzerland. The company’s aggressive growth was fueled by a combination of its own resources and external investments. This momentum continued with acquisitions and new hotel constructions in Hungary, Austria, the UK, Spain, Italy, the Netherlands, Czech Republic, Ireland, Poland, and Romania. The group’s commitment to global domination was underscored by the announcement of a dedicated investment fund in April 2022, aimed at further expansion across Europe.
A Team United:
The Leonardo Hotels are a part of the Fattal Holdings (1998) Ltd family. The Sunflower Management GmbH & Co. KG, a 100% subsidiary, serves as the administrative hub for operations in Europe. The hotels are either owned by Fattal Holdings or its subsidiaries or operate under lease agreements. In 2021, Leonardo Hotels Central Europe alone employed 2,700 people, a testament to the significant economic impact of this hotel chain.
Building a Brand:
Yoram Biton, a seasoned industry professional, serves as the Managing Director of Leonardo Hotels Central Europe, headquartered in Berlin. The Leonardo Hotels brand has expanded into a diverse family of four hotel brands: Leonardo Hotels, Leonardo Boutique Hotels, Leonardo Royal Hotels, and NYX Hotels by Leonardo Hotels. Each brand offers a unique experience tailored to different traveler preferences.
Acquisitions and Expansion:
As of August 2022, the Leonardo Hotel Group (including its sub-brands) boasted over 160 hotels, with the largest concentration located in German cities. Some of the most significant acquisitions include the Jurys Inn chain in the UK and Ireland (51 hotels), Apollo Hotels in the Netherlands and Belgium (13 hotels), and a portfolio of six hotels in the Balearic Islands.
The Leonardo Hotels journey is a testament to the power of vision, strategic expansion, and a relentless drive to deliver exceptional hospitality experiences. The future looks bright for this global brand, poised to continue its growth and redefine the landscape of the hotel industry.
