Leonardo Hotels, a prominent name in the hospitality industry, has carved a strong presence across Europe and beyond. This hotel chain, boasting over 160 properties, is a subsidiary of the Fattal Hotel Group, a company with a rich history and a clear vision for growth.
From Humble Beginnings to International Success
The story of Leonardo Hotels begins in 2006 with the entrepreneurial spirit of David Fattal. Having already established a successful tourism company, Fattal Holdings Ltd, in Tel Aviv, David Fattal set his sights on expanding his business into the world of hotels. The first Leonardo Hotel opened its doors in Nuremberg, Germany, marking the beginning of an impressive journey. The brand’s logo and name were officially registered in 2007 in Germany, followed by international registration in 2008.
The name “Leonardo Hotels” became synonymous with Fattal’s commitment to international expansion. Starting with properties in Germany, Belgium, and Switzerland, the group gradually expanded its portfolio through strategic acquisitions and new constructions. Fueled by both internal funds and investment from financial institutions, Leonardo Hotels ventured into Israel around 2009, followed by acquisitions and new builds in Hungary (2011), Austria (2012), the UK (2015), Spain (2015), Italy (2015), the Netherlands (2016), the Czech Republic (2016), Ireland (2017), Poland (2017), and Romania (2021). The company’s dedication to growth was evident in their announcement of a dedicated fund in April 2022, specifically targeted for further expansion within Europe.
A Structure Built on Success
The Leonardo Hotels are a significant part of Fattal Holdings Ltd, established in 1998, and are managed by the Sunflower Management GmbH & Co. KG, a wholly-owned subsidiary operating in Europe. These hotels are either owned directly by Fattal Holdings or its subsidiaries, or they are leased. The dedication and hard work of the 2,700 employees, specifically within the Leonardo Hotels Central Europe division, are instrumental in the company’s success.
At the helm of this thriving operation is Yoram Biton, the Managing Director of Leonardo Hotels Central Europe, who leads from the company’s headquarters in Berlin. Under his guidance, the Leonardo Hotels brand has flourished and diversified. The brand encompasses four distinct hotel categories: Leonardo Hotels, Leonardo Boutique Hotels, Leonardo Royal Hotels, and NYX Hotels by Leonardo Hotels. Each category caters to a specific traveler, ensuring a diverse offering within the Leonardo Hotels family.
A Legacy of Growth and Acquisitions
By August 2022, the Leonardo Hotels family, including its various sub-brands, had grown to over 160 properties. Germany holds the highest concentration of these hotels. The group’s impressive growth trajectory includes some notable acquisitions, such as the Jurys Inn brand, with 51 hotels in the UK and Ireland, acquired in April 2022. Other significant acquisitions include the Apollo Hotels in the Netherlands and Belgium, with 13 properties, acquired in August 2018, and a portfolio of six hotels in the Balearic Islands.
From its humble beginnings in Nuremberg, Leonardo Hotels has established itself as a global player in the hospitality sector. The company’s commitment to strategic expansion, coupled with its diverse brand offerings and dedication to its employees, sets the stage for an exciting future filled with continued growth and innovation.
