Leonardo Hotels, a renowned hotel chain with over 160 properties worldwide, has been making waves in the hospitality industry. Founded in 2006 by David Fattal, a seasoned hotelier from Haifa, Israel, the company has steadily grown its portfolio, establishing itself as a major player in the European market.
From Humble Beginnings to International Success
Fattal, a seasoned entrepreneur already leading the travel company Fattal Holdings Ltd., saw an opportunity to expand into the hotel industry. He launched Leonardo Hotels with a vision to create a network of high-quality, affordable accommodations. The first hotel opened its doors in Nuremberg, Germany, in 2006. The distinct Leonardo Hotels brand was officially registered in Germany in 2007 and internationally in 2008.
Fattal’s ambition didn’t stop at Germany. He set his sights on international expansion, acquiring properties in countries like Belgium and Switzerland. This growth was fueled by a combination of personal funds and investment from various sources. The momentum continued, with rebrandings of existing hotels in Israel around 2009 and new construction or acquisitions in Hungary (starting in 2011), Austria (starting in 2012), and the United Kingdom (starting in 2015). The list of countries where Leonardo Hotels has planted its flag continued to grow, with expansion into Spain, Italy, the Netherlands, Czech Republic, Ireland, Poland, and Romania.
A Strong Foundation for Future Growth
The Leonardo Hotels network operates under the umbrella of Fattal Holdings, with its European operations managed by the wholly-owned subsidiary, Sunflower Management GmbH & Co. KG. Ownership of Leonardo Hotels is shared between Fattal Holdings and its subsidiaries, or hotels are leased. In 2021, the company employed over 2,700 people across its Central European operations alone.
Yoram Biton, a seasoned hospitality professional, leads Leonardo Hotels Central Europe from its base in Berlin. Under Biton’s leadership, the company has cultivated a diverse brand portfolio, including Leonardo Hotels, Leonardo Boutique Hotels, Leonardo Royal Hotels, and NYX Hotels by Leonardo Hotels, each catering to specific travel preferences.
A Legacy of Acquisitions and Expansion
The Leonardo Hotels group boasts a strong presence in Europe, particularly in Germany, where the majority of its hotels are located. The company has made some notable acquisitions, including the Jurys Inn chain in the United Kingdom and Ireland (51 hotels in total), the Apollo Hotels in the Netherlands and Belgium (13 hotels), and a portfolio of six hotels on the Balearic Islands. These acquisitions have significantly strengthened the brand’s position in the market and broadened its reach across key tourist destinations.
With an ambitious growth strategy and a commitment to providing excellent guest experiences, Leonardo Hotels is poised to continue its global journey, offering travelers a wide range of accommodation options across Europe and beyond.
