Leonardo Hotels, a well-known hotel chain with over 160 properties worldwide, is a prominent name in the hospitality industry. Based in Berlin, the company has expanded its reach to numerous countries across Europe and beyond, making it a truly international brand.
From Humble Beginnings to Global Expansion
The roots of Leonardo Hotels can be traced back to 2006, when David Fattal, a seasoned hotelier from Haifa, Israel, established the group. At the time, Fattal was already leading the successful tourism enterprise, Fattal Holdings Ltd, based in Tel Aviv. The journey began with the opening of the first Leonardo Hotel in Nuremberg, Germany, and soon the brand’s distinctive logo was registered in both Germany and internationally.
With the Leonardo Hotels name, Fattal embarked on an ambitious international expansion strategy. This involved acquiring existing properties, initially in Germany, Belgium, and Switzerland, and then venturing further afield. Through strategic investments and funding from various sources, the company continued its growth trajectory by rebranding hotels in Israel, and establishing new hotels in Hungary, Austria, the United Kingdom, Spain, Italy, the Netherlands, the Czech Republic, Ireland, Poland, and Romania.
Driven by a constant pursuit of growth, Leonardo Hotels announced a dedicated fund in April 2022, specifically aimed at fueling further expansion across Europe. This signifies a commitment to becoming a leading player in the global hospitality landscape.
A Family of Brands: Catering to Diverse Needs
Leonardo Hotels is a subsidiary of Fattal Holdings Ltd, and its European operations are managed by the wholly-owned subsidiary, Sunflower Management GmbH & Co. KG, based in Berlin. The group boasts a diversified portfolio with properties either owned by Fattal Holdings or its subsidiaries or operated under lease agreements.
Leonardo Hotels Central Europe is led by Yoram Biton, a seasoned professional who has been with the company since 1967. The brand has evolved to include four distinct hotel brands: Leonardo Hotels, Leonardo Boutique Hotels, Leonardo Royal Hotels, and NYX Hotels by Leonardo Hotels, catering to a wide range of travelers’ needs and preferences.
A Journey of Acquisitions: Strengthening the Presence
Leonardo Hotels has a history of strategic acquisitions, significantly expanding its reach and portfolio. Some of the most notable acquisitions include:
- Jurys Inn, a well-known hotel chain in the United Kingdom and Ireland, adding 51 properties to the Leonardo family.
- Apollo Hotels, operating across the Netherlands and Belgium, contributed 13 hotels to the group.
- A portfolio of six hotels in the Balearic Islands, strategically expanding Leonardo’s presence in a popular tourist destination.
With Germany boasting the largest number of Leonardo Hotels, the company has solidified its presence in key European markets. This journey of growth and expansion has been driven by a vision to offer high-quality accommodation and a commitment to providing exceptional service to its guests worldwide.
