Leonardo Hotels, a prominent hotel chain with over 160 properties (as of August 2022), is a powerhouse in the hospitality industry. This impressive network is a testament to the visionary leadership of David Fattal, an Israeli entrepreneur who laid the foundation for the company’s success.
Fattal’s entrepreneurial journey began in 2006 with the establishment of Leonardo Hotels, a bold move that marked the international expansion of his existing travel business, Fattal Holdings Ltd, based in Tel Aviv. Nuremberg, Germany, witnessed the birth of the first Leonardo Hotel, a symbol of the brand’s ambitious aspirations.
The name “Leonardo Hotels” was meticulously crafted, becoming a registered trademark both in Germany and internationally, signifying the brand’s global reach and ambition.
Expanding Horizons: A Journey Across Europe
From its humble beginnings in Germany, Leonardo Hotels embarked on an ambitious expansion strategy, branching out to new markets, solidifying its presence in Europe. The expansion involved acquisitions of existing hotels, strategically chosen across key European destinations, and the development of new properties.
The company’s rapid growth was fuelled by a combination of internal funds and external investments, allowing them to penetrate diverse markets. The first step towards international domination was made in 2006, with the acquisition of hotels in Germany, Belgium, and Switzerland. This was just the beginning. The company’s footprint grew steadily, encompassing new locations in Israel, Hungary, Austria, Great Britain, Spain, Italy, the Netherlands, Czech Republic, Ireland, Poland, and Romania.
Fueled by a strong commitment to growth, the company announced the creation of a dedicated fund in 2022, explicitly aimed at propelling further expansion across Europe.
A Family of Brands: A Diverse Portfolio for Every Traveler
Leonardo Hotels is a subsidiary of Fattal Holdings, and the company’s European operations are managed by its wholly-owned subsidiary, Sunflower Management GmbH & Co. KG, based in Berlin.
The majority of Leonardo Hotels are owned by Fattal Holdings or its subsidiary companies, with some being leased. The company employs over 2,700 people in Central Europe alone, highlighting the scale and impact of its operations.
At the helm of Leonardo Hotels Central Europe is Yoram Biton, the Managing Director who oversees the business unit from its headquarters in Berlin.
The Leonardo Hotels brand family comprises four distinct brands, catering to a variety of travel preferences: Leonardo Hotels, Leonardo Boutique Hotels, Leonardo Royal Hotels, and NYX Hotels by Leonardo Hotels, offering diverse accommodations and experiences.
Strategic Acquisitions: Building a Legacy of Growth
By August 2022, the Leonardo Hotels group boasted over 160 hotels, with a significant number of them located in German cities. The company’s growth strategy is evident in its strategic acquisitions of prominent hotel brands.
Notable among these acquisitions are the Jurys Inn hotels in the United Kingdom and Ireland, encompassing 51 properties, a landmark deal that bolstered the brand’s presence in key Western European markets. The Apollo Hotels in the Netherlands and Belgium, comprising 13 properties, further solidified Leonardo’s regional dominance. The acquisition of six hotels on the Balearic Islands added a new dimension to the portfolio, showcasing the company’s commitment to diverse and desirable destinations.
Through strategic acquisitions and a persistent commitment to expansion, Leonardo Hotels has established itself as a global force in the hospitality sector, a testament to the vision of its founder and the dedication of its team.
