Leonardo Hotels, a prominent hotel chain with over 160 properties worldwide, has made a significant mark on the global hospitality scene. Born in 2006, this thriving enterprise is part of the Fattal Hotel Group, a testament to the vision of its founder, David Fattal. David, hailing from Haifa, Israel, was already a seasoned tourism entrepreneur, leading Fattal Holdings Ltd. in Tel Aviv.
From Local Roots to International Expansion
The Leonardo Hotels story began in Nürnberg, Germany, in 2006, with the opening of its inaugural hotel. The brand’s unique identity, a fusion of words and visuals, was officially registered in 2007 with the German Patent and Trademark Office, gaining international recognition in 2008.
Driven by a commitment to international growth, Fattal embarked on a strategic acquisition spree, initially focusing on Germany, Belgium, and Switzerland. Fueled by both internal funds and investment capital, Leonardo Hotels expanded its reach, acquiring hotels in Israel around 2009. The journey continued with new builds and purchases in Hungary (2011), Austria (2012), the United Kingdom (2015), Spain (2015), Italy (2015), the Netherlands (2016), the Czech Republic (2016), Ireland (2017), Poland (2017), and Romania (2021).
Building a Strong Foundation: Ownership and Management
Leonardo Hotels are a key part of the Fattal Holdings empire, managed by their wholly-owned subsidiary, Sunflower Management GmbH & Co. KG, based in Berlin. The hotels are either owned by Fattal Holdings or one of its subsidiaries, or they are leased. The company’s dedication to its employees is reflected in the fact that over 2,700 individuals were employed by Leonardo Hotels Central Europe alone in 2021.
A Visionary Leader: Shaping the Future
Yoram Biton, born in 1967 in Israel, holds the position of Managing Director for Leonardo Hotels Central Europe, with headquarters in Berlin. Under his leadership, the brand has grown into a diverse family of four distinct hotel brands: Leonardo Hotels, Leonardo Boutique Hotels, Leonardo Royal Hotels, and NYX Hotels by Leonardo Hotels.
A Global Footprint: Notable Acquisitions and Expansion
As of August 2022, Leonardo Hotels boast over 160 hotels across the globe, with the majority located in German cities. The company’s strategic growth is evident in its impressive acquisitions, including the Jurys Inn chain in the UK and Ireland (51 hotels in April 2022), Apollo Hotels in the Netherlands and Belgium (13 hotels in August 2018), and a portfolio of six hotels on the Balearic Islands.
Conclusion
The Leonardo Hotels journey, from its humble beginnings in Nürnberg to its global presence today, is a testament to the power of vision, strategic planning, and a commitment to quality. Under the leadership of David Fattal and Yoram Biton, Leonardo Hotels continues to expand its reach, building a legacy of exceptional hospitality and unparalleled guest experiences. With a focus on innovation and expansion, Leonardo Hotels stands poised to become a leading force in the global hospitality landscape for years to come.
