Leonardo Hotels, a thriving hotel chain with over 160 properties worldwide, has made its mark on the global hospitality scene. Founded in 2006 by the visionary hotelier David Fattal, this company has quickly expanded, adding hotels across Europe and beyond. Let’s delve into the captivating journey of this remarkable brand.
From Humble Beginnings to Global Presence
The story of Leonardo Hotels begins in 2006, when David Fattal, a seasoned entrepreneur from Haifa, Israel, established the brand. At that time, he was already at the helm of Fattal Holdings Ltd, a successful tourism company headquartered in Tel Aviv. The first Leonardo Hotel opened its doors in Nuremberg, Germany, marking the start of a global expansion. The unique logo and name of the brand were officially registered in 2007 in Germany, and then internationally in 2008.
With the launch of Leonardo Hotels, Fattal took his hotel portfolio to a global stage. His strategy involved acquiring existing hotels and expanding into new markets. The initial focus was on Germany, Belgium, and Switzerland. Fueled by both internal resources and external investment, the growth continued, with new additions in Israel, Hungary, Austria, Great Britain, Spain, Italy, the Netherlands, Czech Republic, Ireland, Poland, and Romania. This impressive expansion demonstrates the brand’s commitment to international growth.
A Strategic Approach to Success
Leonardo Hotels is part of Fattal Holdings, which manages and owns the majority of its properties. The European operations are handled by Sunflower Management GmbH & Co. KG, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Fattal Holdings.
Leonardo Hotels prides itself on its diverse workforce, employing over 2,700 people in Central Europe alone in 2021. The brand is also known for its commitment to quality and its dedication to providing excellent service to its guests.
A Family of Brands: Catering to Diverse Travelers
Leonardo Hotels isn’t just one brand; it’s a family of brands designed to cater to a wide range of travelers. The brand portfolio includes Leonardo Hotels, Leonardo Boutique Hotels, Leonardo Royal Hotels, and NYX Hotels by Leonardo Hotels. Each sub-brand offers its own unique style and experience, allowing guests to choose the perfect hotel for their needs.
Acquisitions and Growth: A Recipe for Success
The brand’s rapid expansion has been fueled by a series of strategic acquisitions. Among the most significant acquisitions were Jurys Inn hotels in the UK and Ireland, Apollo Hotels in the Netherlands and Belgium, and a portfolio of six hotels on the Balearic Islands. These acquisitions have significantly contributed to the brand’s growth and its presence in key markets.
A Vision for the Future: Continued Expansion
With its commitment to providing exceptional service and its focus on expansion, Leonardo Hotels is poised for continued success. The brand’s vision for the future includes further growth in Europe and other key markets. The dedication to innovation and its commitment to creating memorable experiences for its guests ensure that Leonardo Hotels will continue to be a dominant force in the global hospitality industry.
