Leonardo Hotels, a renowned hotel chain with over 160 properties worldwide, is a testament to the vision of its founder, David Fattal. This dynamic hotel group, headquartered in Berlin, has carved a niche for itself in the hospitality industry with its ambitious growth strategy and commitment to offering comfortable and stylish accommodations.
The Journey Begins
The foundation of the Leonardo Hotels empire was laid in 2006 with the launch of the first hotel in Nuremberg. This marked a significant step for David Fattal, who already held the reins of the thriving tourism company, Fattal Holdings Ltd, based in Tel Aviv. The company’s distinctive word-and-image brand was officially registered in Germany in 2007, followed by international registration the subsequent year.
Expanding Horizons: A Global Footprint
With the creation of Leonardo Hotels, Fattal embarked on an aggressive global expansion strategy, starting with acquisitions in Germany, Belgium, and Switzerland. The company’s success can be attributed to a clever combination of internal financing and external funds, enabling them to acquire and develop new properties at an impressive rate.
Over the next decade, Leonardo Hotels solidified its presence in Europe, expanding into new markets like Hungary, Austria, the United Kingdom, Spain, Italy, the Netherlands, Czech Republic, Ireland, Poland, and Romania. The company’s relentless expansion strategy culminated in the announcement of a dedicated fund in 2022, specifically designed to fuel further growth across Europe.
A Network of Excellence: The Leonardo Family
Leonardo Hotels is a vital component of Fattal Holdings, a conglomerate that boasts an impressive portfolio of hospitality ventures. Under the umbrella of Fattal Holdings, Leonardo Hotels operates under the management of Sunflower Management GmbH & Co. KG, a 100% subsidiary dedicated to overseeing the brand’s European operations. The company’s properties are either owned by Fattal Holdings, its subsidiaries, or are leased. This extensive network has created a powerhouse in the hotel industry, employing over 2,700 individuals solely in the Central Europe region.
Leadership and Vision: Building a Legacy
At the helm of Leonardo Hotels Central Europe, based in Berlin, is Yoram Biton, a seasoned professional who joined the company in 1967. His expertise has been instrumental in navigating the group’s remarkable growth trajectory.
The Leonardo Hotels brand is synonymous with quality and service, encompassing a diverse portfolio of hotels catering to varied customer preferences. The Leonardo Hotels family includes four distinct brands: Leonardo Hotels, Leonardo Boutique Hotels, Leonardo Royal Hotels, and NYX Hotels by Leonardo Hotels. This strategic approach allows the company to cater to a wider range of travelers while maintaining its commitment to providing exceptional experiences.
Strategic Acquisitions: Building a Global Empire
Leonardo Hotels’ impressive growth story is further enhanced by a series of significant acquisitions, solidifying its position as a major player in the international hotel scene. Notable acquisitions include:
- Jurys Inn in the United Kingdom and Ireland (51 hotels), a move that significantly expanded the company’s footprint in these key markets.
- Apollo Hotels in the Netherlands and Belgium (13 hotels), further bolstering their presence in these countries.
- A portfolio of six hotels in the Balearic Islands, signifying a strategic expansion into the Mediterranean region.
Leonardo Hotels: A Beacon of Hospitality
With its commitment to innovation, customer satisfaction, and strategic expansion, Leonardo Hotels has established itself as a leader in the global hotel industry. The company’s unwavering focus on delivering exceptional experiences has made it a preferred choice for discerning travelers seeking comfort, style, and convenience. As Leonardo Hotels continues its ambitious growth journey, it promises to remain a force to be reckoned with in the world of hospitality.
