Leonardo Hotels is a thriving hotel chain with a presence in numerous countries across Europe. Based in Berlin, this company boasts over 160 hotels, solidifying its position as a significant player in the hospitality industry.
From Humble Beginnings to Global Expansion
The story of Leonardo Hotels begins in 2006 with the vision of David Fattal, a hotelier hailing from Haifa, Israel. Already at the helm of the successful Fattal Holdings Ltd., a travel company based in Tel Aviv, he saw an opportunity to build a new hotel brand. The first Leonardo Hotel opened its doors in Nuremberg, Germany, marking the beginning of an ambitious expansion strategy.
The Leonardo brand officially came into being in 2007, securing its place in the German Patent and Trademark Office. This was followed by international registration in 2008. Fattal’s vision was clear: to build a hotel empire with a global footprint.
The company’s growth was fueled by a combination of strategic acquisitions and new construction projects. From its initial presence in Germany, Belgium, and Switzerland, Leonardo Hotels quickly expanded its reach into new markets. In 2009, existing hotels in Israel were rebranded under the Leonardo banner, and in 2011, Hungary became the next target for expansion. The years that followed saw the company’s presence grow significantly, with new hotels opening in Austria (2012), the United Kingdom (2015), Spain (2015), Italy (2015), the Netherlands (2016), the Czech Republic (2016), Ireland (2017), Poland (2017), and Romania (2021). This impressive growth trajectory showcased Leonardo Hotels’ commitment to becoming a major player in the European hospitality market.
A Strong Foundation and Committed Leadership
Leonardo Hotels are either owned outright by Fattal Holdings or its subsidiaries or operated under a lease agreement. This ownership structure provides the company with a strong foundation and a clear vision for the future.
At the helm of Leonardo Hotels Central Europe is Yoram Biton, a seasoned hotelier with a deep understanding of the industry. Under his leadership, the company has continued to grow and thrive, expanding its reach throughout the European continent.
A Diverse Portfolio and Future Growth
The Leonardo Hotels brand is part of a broader family of hotel brands, including Leonardo Hotels, Leonardo Boutique Hotels, Leonardo Royal Hotels, and NYX Hotels by Leonardo Hotels. This diverse portfolio caters to a wide range of travelers, offering a variety of experiences from stylish boutique accommodations to luxury hotels and contemporary urban retreats.
The company has made several major acquisitions throughout its journey, including Jurys Inn hotels in the UK and Ireland (51 hotels), Apollo Hotels in the Netherlands and Belgium (13 hotels), and a portfolio of six hotels in the Balearic Islands.
With its commitment to continuous growth, Leonardo Hotels has set its sights on further expansion in Europe. In 2022, the company announced a dedicated fund that will fuel its future expansion efforts. The journey of Leonardo Hotels is a testament to the company’s vision, strategic planning, and unwavering commitment to exceeding guest expectations. As the company continues to expand its presence across Europe, it is poised to become an even more significant force in the global hospitality landscape.
