Leonardo Hotels, a prominent hotel chain with over 160 properties, is making its mark on the global hospitality scene. This impressive collection of hotels is part of the Fattal Hotel Group, a company with a rich history and a clear vision for the future.
From Humble Beginnings to a Global Presence
The story of Leonardo Hotels begins in 2006 with the visionary David Fattal, an entrepreneur with a passion for the hospitality industry. Already leading Fattal Holdings Ltd, a successful tourism company based in Tel Aviv, David Fattal established the first Leonardo Hotel in Nuremberg, Germany. This marked the start of a journey that would see the brand expand across Europe and beyond.
Leonardo Hotels quickly became synonymous with quality accommodations and exceptional service. The brand’s success was fueled by a strategic combination of acquisitions, new constructions, and rebranding of existing hotels. This approach led to a rapid expansion into countries like Belgium, Switzerland, and later, Israel.
The company’s growth continued at an impressive pace. By 2011, Leonardo Hotels had established a strong presence in Hungary, followed by Austria in 2012. The brand’s commitment to providing a comfortable and welcoming experience for travelers took them to the United Kingdom in 2015, followed by Spain, Italy, and the Netherlands. This expansion continued in 2016 with the addition of hotels in Czech Republic and Ireland. The company further solidified its commitment to Central Europe with the addition of Polish hotels in 2017 and more recently, in 2021, with hotels in Romania.
This remarkable growth trajectory was driven by a clear strategic vision and a dedication to providing exceptional guest experiences. The company’s commitment to quality and expansion was further demonstrated by the announcement of a dedicated fund in 2022, aimed at driving even further growth across Europe.
A Family of Brands and a Passion for Excellence
Leonardo Hotels isn’t just one brand, but a family of brands, offering a diverse range of options for travelers. The group includes Leonardo Hotels, Leonardo Boutique Hotels, Leonardo Royal Hotels, and NYX Hotels by Leonardo Hotels, each catering to different needs and preferences.
This diverse portfolio is managed by Sunflower Management GmbH & Co. KG, a 100% subsidiary of Fattal Holdings. The hotels themselves are either owned by Fattal Holdings or its subsidiaries, or are leased. This carefully orchestrated approach ensures a consistent level of quality and service across the entire brand portfolio.
The dedication to excellence is also reflected in the company’s workforce. In 2021, Leonardo Hotels Central Europe alone employed over 2,700 individuals. This team, led by Yoram Biton, Managing Director, is committed to providing the exceptional service and memorable experiences that have become synonymous with the brand.
A History of Strategic Acquisitions and a Bright Future
The success of Leonardo Hotels is not just about building new properties, but also about acquiring existing hotels that align with the brand’s vision. Notable acquisitions include the Jurys Inn brand in the United Kingdom and Ireland, the Apollo Hotels in the Netherlands and Belgium, and a portfolio of six hotels in the Balearic Islands. Each acquisition has strategically expanded the company’s reach and strengthened its presence in key markets.
This strategic approach to growth has allowed Leonardo Hotels to emerge as a major force in the global hospitality industry. The company’s dedication to quality, commitment to expansion, and passion for providing exceptional guest experiences all contribute to a bright future for the brand. With a diversified portfolio of brands and a global presence, Leonardo Hotels is well-positioned to continue its growth and success in the years to come.
