The Leonardo Hotels story is a testament to the ambition and foresight of its founder, David Fattal. This Berlin-based hotel chain boasts over 160 properties across Europe, making it a significant player in the hospitality industry. The journey began in 2006 with a single hotel in Nuremberg, Germany, and has since blossomed into a vast network spanning several countries.
From Nuremberg to the World: Expansion Across Europe
The foundation for Leonardo Hotels was laid in 2006 when David Fattal, a seasoned hotel entrepreneur from Haifa, Israel, decided to expand his existing company, Fattal Holdings Ltd, into the hotel industry. The very first Leonardo Hotel was launched in Nuremberg, marking the start of an impressive growth trajectory.
This ambitious venture saw Leonardo Hotels quickly establishing its presence across Germany, Belgium, and Switzerland, demonstrating a clear strategy to conquer the European market. Expansion was fueled by a combination of internal funds and strategic investments, allowing the company to acquire existing hotels and build new ones.
Over the next decade, Leonardo Hotels solidified its position in Europe by expanding into Hungary, Austria, the United Kingdom, Spain, Italy, the Netherlands, Czech Republic, Ireland, Poland, and most recently, Romania. This rapid expansion was driven by a commitment to offering a range of high-quality hotels catering to diverse traveler needs.
The group’s ambition doesn’t stop there. In April 2022, Leonardo Hotels announced a dedicated fund specifically designed to support further growth across Europe. This strategic move demonstrates a clear intention to maintain their dominant position in the European hotel landscape.
A Family of Brands: Catering to Every Traveler
Leonardo Hotels isn’t just a single brand; it’s a family of brands designed to cater to different types of travelers. Four distinctive brands make up the Leonardo Hotels family, each offering unique experiences and services:
- Leonardo Hotels: The core brand known for its contemporary style and commitment to providing a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
- Leonardo Boutique Hotels: Focused on creating a stylish and intimate atmosphere, ideal for those seeking a boutique hotel experience.
- Leonardo Royal Hotels: Offering luxurious accommodations and exceptional service, perfect for discerning travelers.
- NYX Hotels by Leonardo Hotels: A vibrant and trendy brand geared towards younger, social travelers, designed for a unique and exciting stay.
This diverse range of brands allows Leonardo Hotels to attract a broader spectrum of travelers, catering to individual preferences and budget requirements.
Acquisition and Growth: Building a European Powerhouse
The success of Leonardo Hotels can be attributed in part to strategic acquisitions of existing hotel brands and properties. Some of the most significant acquisitions include:
- Jurys Inn: This acquisition, encompassing 51 hotels in the United Kingdom and Ireland, marked a significant step towards establishing a dominant presence in these crucial markets.
- Apollo Hotels: With 13 hotels in the Netherlands and Belgium, this acquisition further solidified Leonardo Hotels’ position in Western Europe.
- Six Hotel Properties in the Balearic Islands: This strategic acquisition expanded Leonardo Hotels’ footprint in the popular tourist destination, Spain.
These acquisitions, combined with new hotel development, demonstrate Leonardo Hotels’ commitment to expanding its network and offering its diverse range of brands to a larger audience.
A Legacy of Growth and Innovation
The story of Leonardo Hotels is one of remarkable growth and innovation. The company’s rapid expansion across Europe, coupled with the introduction of distinct hotel brands, has solidified its position as a leader in the hospitality industry. With a dedicated fund for further growth, Leonardo Hotels is poised to continue its journey, building upon its impressive legacy and shaping the future of the European hotel scene.
