Leonardo Hotels, a leading hotel chain, is steadily expanding its footprint across Europe and beyond. With over 160 properties under its belt, this dynamic brand is making waves in the hospitality industry. But who are they, and what makes them tick?
From Humble Beginnings to Global Powerhouse
The story of Leonardo Hotels begins with David Fattal, a visionary hotelier hailing from Haifa, Israel. In 2006, he established the Fattal Hotel Group, adding a new chapter to his already successful Fattal Holdings Ltd enterprise. The group’s journey started with the opening of its first hotel in Nürnberg, Germany, in the same year.
The brand’s iconic word-and-image trademark was registered in 2007 in Germany, followed by international registration in 2008. This marked the beginning of Fattal’s ambitious internationalization strategy, beginning with hotel acquisitions in Germany, Belgium, and Switzerland.
Fueled by Ambition and Expansion
The hotel group’s growth trajectory is marked by strategic acquisitions and new construction projects. This ambitious expansion, financed by both internal funds and external investors, has seen Leonardo Hotels establish a strong presence in several countries. They entered the Israeli market around 2009, followed by expansions in Hungary (2011), Austria (2012), and the United Kingdom (2015).
The momentum continued with further acquisitions and new builds in Spain (2015), Italy (2015), the Netherlands (2016), the Czech Republic (2016), Ireland (2017), Poland (2017), and Romania (2021). In April 2022, the group announced a new fund dedicated to accelerating their European expansion plans.
A Well-Structured and Growing Organization
Leonardo Hotels are owned and operated by Fattal Holdings or its subsidiaries, with some properties leased. The Sunflower Management GmbH & Co. KG, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Fattal Holdings, manages operations in Europe. With a dedicated workforce of over 2,700 employees in Central Europe alone, the group is committed to providing high-quality service and hospitality.
Yoram Biton, Managing Director of Leonardo Hotels Central Europe, guides the brand’s strategic direction from its Berlin headquarters. The brand itself boasts four distinct hotel brands: Leonardo Hotels, Leonardo Boutique Hotels, Leonardo Royal Hotels, and NYX Hotels by Leonardo Hotels, catering to diverse traveler needs and preferences.
A Story of Acquisitions and Growth
By August 2022, Leonardo Hotels boasted over 160 properties, with the majority situated in German cities. Some of the most notable acquisitions include the Jurys Inn chain in the United Kingdom and Ireland (51 hotels), Apollo Hotels in the Netherlands and Belgium (13 hotels), and a portfolio of six hotels in the Balearic Islands.
Leonardo Hotels continues to be a force in the hospitality sector, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to growth and expansion. This dynamic brand, fueled by a vision for international excellence, is sure to leave its mark on the travel industry for years to come.
