Leonardo Hotels, a well-known name in the hospitality industry, is a hotel chain with a presence in numerous countries across Europe. With over 160 hotels under its banner, the company has grown significantly since its inception in 2006. This growth story is intertwined with the vision and entrepreneurial spirit of its founder, David Fattal.
This article dives into the journey of Leonardo Hotels, exploring its origins, expansion strategy, and its commitment to delivering exceptional experiences to travelers worldwide.
From Humble Beginnings to Global Expansion
The Leonardo Hotels story began in 2006 when David Fattal, a seasoned hotelier from Haifa, Israel, decided to establish a new hotel brand. His entrepreneurial spirit, coupled with his experience leading Fattal Holdings Ltd, a touristic enterprise based in Tel Aviv, formed the foundation of this venture.
The first Leonardo hotel opened its doors in Nürnberg, Germany, marking the beginning of a remarkable growth journey. The company quickly established its presence in other European countries, including Belgium and Switzerland. A vital part of this expansion involved acquiring existing hotels, while also constructing new ones.
Building a Global Network Through Acquisitions
Leonardo Hotels’ strategy involved acquiring hotels across a wide range of European locations. These acquisitions, funded by a combination of internal resources and external investors, fuelled the company’s rapid expansion. This commitment to growth is evident in the timeline of their acquisitions:
- Israel (circa 2009): The company expanded its reach to its home country, acquiring existing hotels.
- Hungary (from 2011): Leonardo Hotels ventured into Eastern Europe, strategically acquiring and building new hotels in Hungary.
- Austria (from 2012): The company continued its European expansion, entering the Austrian market.
- Great Britain (from 2015): Leonardo Hotels solidified its presence in Western Europe, acquiring properties in the UK.
- Spain (from 2015): Furthering its European expansion, the company ventured into the Spanish market.
- Italy (since 2015): The company extended its reach to the Italian peninsula, adding hotels to its portfolio.
- Netherlands (since 2016): Leonardo Hotels continued its expansion into Northern Europe, establishing a presence in the Netherlands.
- Czech Republic (since 2016): The company further expanded its reach in Eastern Europe, adding hotels to its portfolio in the Czech Republic.
- Ireland (since 2017): Leonardo Hotels extended its presence to the Emerald Isle, acquiring properties in Ireland.
- Poland (since 2017): Furthering its presence in Eastern Europe, Leonardo Hotels acquired properties in Poland.
- Romania (since 2021): The company’s expansion continued, entering the Romanian market.
The company’s ambitious vision is reflected in its recent announcement of a dedicated fund to further its expansion across Europe. This strategic move highlights Leonardo Hotels’ commitment to becoming a leading player in the global hospitality industry.
A Family of Brands: Catering to Diverse Needs
The Leonardo Hotels brand is not just one entity; it is a family of distinct brands that cater to a wide range of travel preferences. The company offers a diverse portfolio of hotels, each with its unique identity and target audience:
- Leonardo Hotels: The core brand, offering comfortable and stylish accommodation in various locations.
- Leonardo Boutique Hotels: Aimed at discerning travelers seeking stylish and modern accommodations with a focus on design and local experiences.
- Leonardo Royal Hotels: Providing upscale accommodations with a strong emphasis on service and amenities, catering to business travelers and those seeking a luxury experience.
- NYX Hotels by Leonardo Hotels: A contemporary brand targeted at the younger generation, featuring vibrant design and modern amenities, perfect for those who want to experience a trendy atmosphere.
This diverse portfolio allows Leonardo Hotels to cater to a wide spectrum of guests, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable stay for every traveler.
A Strong Foundation: Structure and Management
Leonardo Hotels operates within the larger framework of Fattal Holdings (1998) Ltd., a company with a proven track record in the hospitality industry. The hotel chain’s European operations are managed by its wholly-owned subsidiary, Sunflower Management GmbH & Co. KG, based in Berlin.
The ownership structure of Leonardo Hotels involves a combination of direct ownership by Fattal Holdings and its subsidiaries, as well as leased properties. This diverse ownership model allows the company to maintain flexibility in its operations and asset management.
A Dedicated Team: Driving Growth and Innovation
Leonardo Hotels employs over 2,700 individuals across Central Europe, dedicated to providing exceptional service and ensuring a positive guest experience. The company’s success can be attributed to its talented team and its commitment to providing professional and friendly service.
Yoram Biton, the Managing Director of Leonardo Hotels Central Europe, plays a crucial role in driving the company’s growth and expansion strategies. His leadership and expertise have been instrumental in shaping the company’s vision and solidifying its position as a leader in the hospitality industry.
Key Acquisitions and Growth Milestones
Leonardo Hotels’ growth has been fueled by strategic acquisitions that have expanded its reach and solidified its position in the market. Some of the most significant acquisitions include:
- Jurys Inn (51 hotels, as of April 2022): The acquisition of this well-known hotel chain in the UK and Ireland significantly expanded Leonardo Hotels’ footprint in these key markets.
- Apollo Hotels (13 hotels, as of August 2018): This acquisition, encompassing hotels in the Netherlands and Belgium, further strengthened Leonardo Hotels’ presence in these strategically important markets.
- Six hotels on the Balearic Islands: This strategic acquisition provided Leonardo Hotels with a foothold in the popular Balearic Islands, offering a gateway to the Mediterranean region.
These strategic acquisitions have been critical to Leonardo Hotels’ success, driving its growth and allowing the company to establish a strong presence in key travel destinations across Europe.
Looking to the Future: Continued Growth and Innovation
Leonardo Hotels is a company with a clear vision for the future – continued growth and innovation in the hospitality sector. The company’s commitment to expanding its global reach, coupled with its dedication to providing a diverse portfolio of hotel brands, positions it to continue its success in the years to come.
As Leonardo Hotels continues its journey, its commitment to delivering exceptional service, its innovative approach to design and guest experiences, and its strong leadership will undoubtedly continue to shape its success story. The company’s dedication to its guests, its focus on growth, and its unwavering commitment to the hospitality industry ensure that Leonardo Hotels will remain a prominent and respected name in the global tourism landscape for years to come.
