Leonardo Hotels, a bustling hotel chain with over 160 properties under its belt, has established itself as a major player in the global hospitality industry. The company, headquartered in Berlin, is a proud member of the Fattal Hotel Group, a testament to its commitment to providing exceptional guest experiences.
Let’s take a closer look at the journey of Leonardo Hotels:
From Humble Beginnings to Global Dominance
The story of Leonardo Hotels begins in 2006 with the visionary leadership of David Fattal, an experienced hotelier hailing from Haifa, Israel. Fattal, who already spearheaded the successful Fattal Holdings Ltd. in Tel Aviv, decided to venture into a new realm of hospitality. The first Leonardo hotel opened its doors in Nuremberg, Germany, marking the start of an exciting journey.
The Leonardo Hotels brand was formally registered in 2007 with the German Patent and Trademark Office, cementing its presence in the European market. International recognition soon followed, with the brand becoming globally recognized in 2008.
Fueled by a strong ambition to expand, Leonardo Hotels embarked on an impressive journey of acquiring and establishing hotels across Europe. This expansion was fueled by the company’s own resources, combined with strategic investments from various funds.
The company’s footprint expanded to include Germany, Belgium, and Switzerland. By 2009, Leonardo Hotels had taken root in Israel, followed by strategic acquisitions and new developments in Hungary (starting in 2011), Austria (2012), the UK (2015), Spain (2015), Italy (2015), the Netherlands (2016), Czech Republic (2016), Ireland (2017), Poland (2017), and Romania (2021).
Leonardo Hotels’ growth is a testament to the company’s adaptability and foresight. This relentless pursuit of expansion culminated in a significant milestone – the announcement of a dedicated fund in April 2022, earmarked for accelerating its European expansion. This proactive approach ensures Leonardo Hotels’ continued success in the years to come.
A Strong Foundation: Ownership and Management
Leonardo Hotels operates under the umbrella of Fattal Holdings (1998) Ltd., a testament to its solid financial standing and enduring commitment to providing exceptional hospitality experiences. The company’s European operations are managed by its wholly-owned subsidiary, Sunflower Management GmbH & Co. KG, a dedicated team of professionals who oversee day-to-day operations and strategic decisions.
Leonardo Hotels’ ownership structure is characterized by a blend of direct ownership by Fattal Holdings and its subsidiaries, as well as strategic partnerships through lease agreements. This approach ensures a flexible and adaptable ownership model, allowing the company to capitalize on diverse opportunities.
The company’s dedication to providing exceptional guest experiences is reflected in its workforce. By 2021, Leonardo Hotels Central Europe boasted a team of 2,700 dedicated employees, demonstrating the company’s commitment to creating a positive and fulfilling work environment.
A Brand for Every Traveler: The Leonardo Family
Leonardo Hotels is not just a single brand, but a diverse family of four distinct hotel brands, each catering to a unique traveler profile.
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Leonardo Hotels: The core brand offers a comfortable and reliable stay, perfect for business travelers and leisure seekers alike.
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Leonardo Boutique Hotels: This brand offers a sophisticated and stylish experience, catering to discerning travelers seeking a unique blend of contemporary design and exceptional service.
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Leonardo Royal Hotels: The flagship brand, offering unparalleled luxury and a touch of grandeur, perfect for those who appreciate the finer things in life.
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NYX Hotels by Leonardo Hotels: A vibrant and energetic brand, perfect for the modern traveler seeking a dynamic and social experience.
This diverse portfolio allows Leonardo Hotels to cater to a broad range of travelers, ensuring that every guest finds the perfect match for their travel needs.
A Legacy of Acquisitions: Shaping the Hotel Landscape
Leonardo Hotels’ growth story is not only about expansion but also strategic acquisitions, a testament to the company’s acumen in identifying promising opportunities. Some of the most notable acquisitions include:
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Jurys Inn (51 hotels in the UK and Ireland): This acquisition, completed in April 2022, significantly bolstered Leonardo Hotels’ presence in the UK and Irish markets, expanding its reach to new regions and increasing its portfolio of properties.
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Apollo Hotels (13 hotels in the Netherlands and Belgium): This strategic acquisition, completed in August 2018, strengthened Leonardo Hotels’ presence in the Benelux region, expanding its footprint and diversifying its offerings.
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Six Hotel Properties in the Balearic Islands: This strategic move, completed in July 2022, showcased Leonardo Hotels’ ambition to expand its reach to popular tourist destinations, solidifying its position as a key player in the Mediterranean market.
These acquisitions have solidified Leonardo Hotels’ position as a dominant force in the global hospitality market, further cementing its reputation as a company committed to growth, innovation, and delivering exceptional guest experiences.
