Leonardo Hotels, a flourishing hotel chain with a presence in numerous European countries, has grown from humble beginnings to a global force in the hospitality industry. Let’s delve into its fascinating journey.
From Humble Beginnings to International Expansion
Leonardo Hotels was founded in 2006 by the visionary entrepreneur David Fattal from Haifa, Israel. At that time, he was already a prominent figure in the tourism industry, managing Fattal Holdings Ltd. in Tel Aviv. The first hotel was launched in Nuremberg, Germany, marking the start of an ambitious expansion. The name “Leonardo Hotels” was officially registered in Germany in 2007, followed by international registration in 2008.
The birth of Leonardo Hotels marked the internationalization of Fattal’s hotel portfolio. He initially acquired properties in Germany, Belgium, and Switzerland. This aggressive expansion was fueled by his own funds and investments from various financial institutions. The company then expanded its reach into Israel around 2009. By 2011, Leonardo Hotels was expanding into Hungary. The company continued its growth trajectory, entering new markets like Austria in 2012, the United Kingdom and Spain in 2015, Italy in 2015, the Netherlands in 2016, the Czech Republic in 2016, Ireland in 2017, Poland in 2017, and finally Romania in 2021. This strategic expansion cemented Leonardo Hotels as a major player in the European hotel market. The company’s ambitious expansion plans for the future were further reinforced in April 2022 when they announced the creation of a new fund specifically for investing in further European expansion.
A Global Network of Hotels
Leonardo Hotels is a proud subsidiary of Fattal Holdings (1998) Ltd., a major player in the tourism industry. The company’s European operations are managed by its wholly-owned subsidiary Sunflower Management GmbH & Co. KG. Leonardo Hotels are either owned directly by Fattal Holdings or its subsidiaries or are leased. The company employs over 2,700 people at its Central European branch alone, a testament to its significant contribution to the European economy.
A Diverse Portfolio and Brand Family
Yoram Biton, Managing Director of Leonardo Hotels Central Europe, leads the company’s operations from its headquarters in Berlin. The company’s portfolio boasts four distinct hotel brands: Leonardo Hotels, Leonardo Boutique Hotels, Leonardo Royal Hotels, and NYX Hotels by Leonardo Hotels. Each brand caters to different needs and preferences, ensuring a wide selection for discerning travelers.
Acquisitions and Milestones
As of August 2022, Leonardo Hotels owns and operates more than 160 hotels across its brands, with the majority located in Germany. The company’s strategic acquisitions have played a pivotal role in its rapid growth. Some of its most notable acquisitions include the Jurys Inn chain in the United Kingdom and Ireland (51 hotels), the Apollo Hotels in the Netherlands and Belgium (13 hotels), and a portfolio of six hotels in the Balearic Islands. These acquisitions have significantly boosted Leonardo Hotels‘ presence in key European markets, strengthening its position as a leading hotel group.
Conclusion
Leonardo Hotels has come a long way since its inception in 2006. The company’s unwavering commitment to expansion, its diverse portfolio of brands, and its dedicated team have propelled it to the forefront of the European hotel industry. The company’s continued commitment to innovation, strategic acquisitions, and expansion makes it a force to be reckoned with in the global hospitality landscape. With its sights set on further expansion in Europe, Leonardo Hotels is poised for continued success in the years to come.
