Leonardo Hotels, a renowned hotel chain with over 160 properties worldwide (as of August 2022), has become a force in the hospitality industry. The chain is owned by the Fattal Hotel Group, a company founded by the visionary hotelier David Fattal, originating from Haifa, Israel.
The Journey Begins:
The Fattal Hotel Group, founded in 2006, initially focused on expanding its presence in Europe, starting with the opening of its first hotel in Nuremberg, Germany. The brand was officially registered with the German Patent and Trademark Office in 2007, followed by international registration in 2008. The group’s commitment to global expansion led to acquisitions and new construction projects in countries like Belgium, Switzerland, Hungary, Austria, and the UK.
A Multifaceted Portfolio:
Fueled by internal funds and investments from various sources, the Fattal Hotel Group further expanded its reach. They took over existing hotels in Israel around 2009, followed by acquiring or building new hotels in various European countries including 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). In April 2022, the hotel group announced the establishment of a dedicated fund to further propel its European expansion.
A Strong Foundation:
The Leonardo Hotels brand falls under the umbrella of Fattal Holdings (1998) Ltd. Its wholly owned subsidiary, Sunflower Management GmbH & Co. KG, oversees its operations in Europe. The ownership structure includes hotels directly owned by Fattal Holdings or its subsidiaries, as well as leased properties. In 2021 alone, Leonardo Hotels Central Europe employed over 2,700 individuals.
The Leadership:
Yoram Biton, born in Israel in 1967, serves as the Managing Director of Leonardo Hotels Central Europe, headquartered in Berlin. The brand portfolio encompasses four distinct hotel brands: Leonardo Hotels, Leonardo Boutique Hotels, Leonardo Royal Hotels, and NYX Hotels by Leonardo Hotels.
A History of Acquisitions:
As of August 2022, the Leonardo Hotel Group, encompassing its main brand and sub-brands, boasted over 160 hotels, with a significant presence in German cities. Some of the most notable acquisitions include the Jurys Inn chain in the UK and Ireland (51 hotels acquired in April 2022), the Apollo Hotels in the Netherlands and Belgium (13 hotels acquired in August 2018), and a portfolio of six hotels on the Balearic Islands.
A Vision for the Future:
The Fattal Hotel Group’s dedication to growth is evident in its strategic acquisitions and continuous expansion into new markets. With its diverse range of hotel brands, the group provides travellers with a wide choice of accommodations across various price points and locations, solidifying its position as a prominent player in the global hospitality landscape. The future for Leonardo Hotels looks bright, promising continued growth and a continued focus on delivering exceptional experiences to guests around the world.
