Leonardo Hotels is a global hotel chain headquartered in Berlin, Germany. The company has a vast network of over 160 hotels, making it a significant player in the hospitality industry. This impressive growth journey began in 2006, thanks to the visionary leadership of David Fattal, a seasoned hotelier with a deep understanding of the market.
From Humble Beginnings to Global Expansion
David Fattal, hailing from Haifa, Israel, already possessed extensive experience in the travel and tourism sector through his company, Fattal Holdings Ltd, based in Tel Aviv. In 2006, he embarked on a new venture, establishing Leonardo Hotels, with the first property opening in Nuremberg, Germany. This marked the beginning of a remarkable expansion.
The Leonardo Hotels brand became synonymous with internationalization, with Fattal strategically acquiring properties in key locations across Europe. The initial focus was on Germany, Belgium, and Switzerland, laying the foundation for a wider footprint.
A Rapidly Expanding Empire
Fueled by a combination of internal funds and investments from various sources, Leonardo Hotels continued to expand its reach, acquiring hotels in Israel around 2009. The company then ventured into new markets, building or buying properties in Hungary (2011), Austria (2012), the UK (2015), Spain (2015), Italy (2015), the Netherlands (2016), the Czech Republic (2016), Ireland (2017), Poland (2017), and Romania (2021). This aggressive expansion strategy showcases Leonardo Hotels’ commitment to becoming a leading global player in the hospitality industry.
The company’s ambition is evident in its recent announcement of a dedicated fund aimed at further expansion across Europe. Leonardo Hotels is clearly poised for continued growth and success.
A Strong Foundation and Dedicated Leadership
Leonardo Hotels operates under the umbrella of Fattal Holdings, a company established in 1998. The hotels themselves are either owned by Fattal Holdings or one of its subsidiaries, or they are leased. The company employs over 2,700 people in Central Europe alone, demonstrating its commitment to creating jobs and contributing to the economies of the regions it serves.
Yoram Biton, the Managing Director of Leonardo Hotels Central Europe, plays a crucial role in overseeing the company’s operations and ensuring a consistent brand experience across all properties. The hotel chain boasts a portfolio of four distinct brands: Leonardo Hotels, Leonardo Boutique Hotels, Leonardo Royal Hotels, and NYX Hotels by Leonardo Hotels, catering to a diverse range of travelers.
A Legacy of Acquisitions and Growth
Leonardo Hotels has made a number of significant acquisitions, significantly increasing its portfolio and solidifying its position in the market. These acquisitions include the Jurys Inn chain in the UK and Ireland (51 hotels), the Apollo Hotels in the Netherlands and Belgium (13 hotels), and a portfolio of six hotels in the Balearic Islands. This strategic approach has resulted in a robust network of properties that span multiple countries and cater to different budgets and preferences.
A Look to the Future
Leonardo Hotels is a true success story, fueled by strong leadership, strategic acquisitions, and a commitment to offering exceptional hospitality. With its sights firmly set on continued growth and expansion, the company is well-positioned to become a dominant force in the global hotel industry. The future for Leonardo Hotels looks bright, with the company’s innovative approach and unwavering dedication to providing quality service.
