Leonardo Hotels, a prominent name in the hotel industry, has a fascinating story of growth and expansion. Based in Berlin, this hotel chain boasts over 160 properties across various countries, making it a significant force in the hospitality sector.
It all began in 2006 when David Fattal, a seasoned hotelier from Haifa, Israel, established the hotel group. He was already leading Fattal Holdings Ltd, a tourism company based in Tel Aviv, when he decided to venture into the hotel business. Nuremberg, Germany, witnessed the birth of the first Leonardo Hotel. The company’s distinctive logo and branding were formally registered in 2007 by the German Patent and Trademark Office, gaining international recognition in 2008.
Expanding Horizons: A Global Footprint
Driven by a vision of international expansion, Fattal started acquiring hotels, initially in Germany, Belgium, and Switzerland, marking the beginning of a remarkable journey. Fueled by both internal funds and external investments, the company’s growth continued with rebranding existing hotels in Israel around 2009. The acquisition spree extended to Hungary (2011), Austria (2012), Great Britain (2015), Spain (2015), Italy (2015), Netherlands (2016), Czech Republic (2016), Ireland (2017), Poland (2017), and finally Romania (2021). This relentless expansion shows their commitment to establishing a global presence.
In April 2022, the company announced plans for a new fund dedicated to further expansion in Europe. This clearly indicates their ambition to solidify their position as a leading hotel chain in the continent.
Structure and Leadership: Behind the Brand
Leonardo Hotels is part of the larger Fattal Holdings (1998) Ltd. Its 100% subsidiary, Sunflower Management GmbH & Co. KG, serves as the management company for European operations. The ownership structure is also interesting: Leonardo Hotels are either owned by Fattal Holdings or one of its subsidiaries, or they are leased. The company’s commitment to its workforce is evident in its 2,700 employees in Central Europe alone, as of 2021.
Yoram Biton, based in Berlin, serves as Managing Director of the Leonardo Hotels Central Europe business unit. His leadership is crucial in driving the company’s growth in the region.
Branding and Acquisitions: Building a Legacy
The Leonardo family of hotels includes four distinct brands: Leonardo Hotels, Leonardo Boutique Hotels, Leonardo Royal Hotels, and NYX Hotels by Leonardo Hotels, catering to diverse needs and preferences.
As of August 2022, the Leonardo Hotel group, including its sub-brands, boasts more than 160 hotels with the largest number located in German cities. Some of the most significant acquisitions include Jurys Inn (51 hotels) in the UK and Ireland, Apollo Hotels (13 hotels) in the Netherlands and Belgium, and a portfolio of six hotels in the Balearic Islands.
The Leonardo Hotels story is one of ambition, strategic expansion, and a dedication to providing exceptional hospitality experiences across the globe. With its clear vision and consistent growth, Leonardo Hotels is poised to continue its upward trajectory, solidifying its place as a major player in the international hotel industry.
