Leonardo Hotels, a global hotel chain with over 160 properties, has been steadily expanding its reach across Europe and beyond. This fascinating story of growth and ambition is a testament to the vision of its founder, David Fattal, and his relentless pursuit of success in the hospitality industry.
This article delves into the history of Leonardo Hotels, exploring its origins, key milestones, and future aspirations. Join us as we unravel the journey of this dynamic hotel group, from its humble beginnings to its position as a major player in the international hospitality landscape.
From Humble Beginnings to a Global Chain
The Leonardo Hotels story begins in 2006 when David Fattal, an experienced hotelier with a background in tourism, established the hotel group. The first Leonardo Hotel opened its doors in Nuremberg, Germany, marking the beginning of an ambitious expansion strategy. The brand identity, a combination of words and imagery, was registered in Germany in 2007 and later recognized internationally.
With the launch of Leonardo Hotels, Fattal set out to broaden his hotel portfolio globally. He started by acquiring properties in Germany, Belgium, and Switzerland. This expansion, fueled by both internal funds and investment capital, continued with strategic moves in Israel around 2009. Further acquisitions and new constructions followed in Hungary (2011 onwards), Austria (2012 onwards), the United Kingdom (2015 onwards), Spain (2015 onwards), Italy (since 2015), the Netherlands (since 2016), the Czech Republic (since 2016), Ireland (since 2017), Poland (since 2017), and Romania (since 2021). The group’s unwavering ambition was evident in their announcement of a new fund in April 2022, designed to further fuel expansion across Europe.
A Well-Structured Network and a Strong Leadership
Leonardo Hotels is part of the larger Fattal Holdings, a company founded in 1998. The group’s European operations are managed by its wholly-owned subsidiary, Sunflower Management GmbH & Co. KG. The hotels themselves are owned either by Fattal Holdings or its subsidiaries, or they are leased.
In 2021, Leonardo Hotels Central Europe employed over 2,700 people. Yoram Biton, a seasoned hospitality executive, leads the company’s central European operations from its Berlin headquarters.
A Portfolio of Brands Catering to Diverse Needs
The Leonardo Hotels family now encompasses four distinct brands: Leonardo Hotels, Leonardo Boutique Hotels, Leonardo Royal Hotels, and NYX Hotels by Leonardo Hotels. This diversified portfolio caters to a wide range of travelers, offering a unique and tailored experience for each segment.
Acquisitions Driving Growth
As of August 2022, the Leonardo Hotels group, including its core brand and subsidiaries, boasted over 160 hotels. Germany remains a key market for the group, with the highest concentration of hotels.
Some of the most significant acquisitions include the Jurys Inn brand in the UK and Ireland, comprising 51 hotels, the Apollo Hotels in the Netherlands and Belgium with 13 properties, and a portfolio of six hotels in the Balearic Islands. These acquisitions have further solidified Leonardo Hotels’ position as a leading force in the international hospitality industry.
A Legacy of Ambition and Growth
The story of Leonardo Hotels is an inspiring tale of ambitious growth and strategic expansion. Driven by a visionary founder and a team of dedicated professionals, Leonardo Hotels has transformed from a regional player to a global force in the hospitality sector. As the group continues its ambitious journey, it is poised to become a truly dominant player in the international hotel market.
