Leonardo Hotels, a globally recognized name in the hospitality industry, boasts over 160 hotels across the globe, with its roots firmly planted in Berlin. The hotel chain is part of the larger Fattal Hotel Group, a testament to the vision of its founder, David Fattal.
A Visionary Entrepreneur Builds a Hospitality Empire
David Fattal, a seasoned hotelier hailing from Haifa, Israel, established the Fattal Hotel Group in 2006. He already had a successful track record in the tourism industry, leading the Tel Aviv-based Fattal Holdings Ltd. The first Leonardo Hotel opened its doors in Nuremberg, Germany, marking the beginning of an ambitious expansion plan.
The brand’s unique name and logo were officially registered in 2007 in Germany and internationally the following year. This was a pivotal step, showcasing Fattal’s desire to make Leonardo Hotels a household name across the globe.
Global Expansion: A Strategy Fueled by Growth and Innovation
Leonardo Hotels rapidly expanded its footprint beyond Germany, acquiring properties in Belgium and Switzerland. The growth was fueled by both internal funds and strategic partnerships with investment funds. This expansion saw the rebranding of existing hotels in Israel around 2009, followed by acquisitions and new constructions in Hungary (starting in 2011), Austria (2012), the UK (2015), Spain (2015), Italy (2015), the Netherlands (2016), Czech Republic (2016), Ireland (2017), Poland (2017), and Romania (2021). This strategic and relentless pursuit of growth has positioned Leonardo Hotels as a major player in the European hospitality landscape.
A Strong Foundation: Ownership and Management Structure
The Leonardo Hotels are a part of the Fattal Holdings family, with its 100% subsidiary, Sunflower Management GmbH & Co. KG, acting as the administrative arm in Europe. The hotels are either directly owned by Fattal Holdings or its subsidiaries, or they are leased. This ownership structure highlights the group’s commitment to maintaining control over its properties and ensuring consistent brand quality.
A Team Driven by Passion and Expertise
Leonardo Hotels Central Europe, with its headquarters in Berlin, is led by Yoram Biton, a seasoned industry veteran. He oversees the business unit, ensuring smooth operations across the region.
The Leonardo Hotels brand family encompasses a diverse portfolio of hotel brands, each catering to specific traveler needs: Leonardo Hotels, Leonardo Boutique Hotels, Leonardo Royal Hotels, and NYX Hotels by Leonardo Hotels. This strategic diversification allows the group to offer a wider range of experiences and attract a larger audience.
A Legacy of Acquisition and Growth
As of August 2022, the Leonardo Hotel Group, including its various sub-brands, boasts over 160 hotels, with Germany leading the pack in terms of property count. Some of the largest acquisitions include the Jurys Inn brand in the UK and Ireland (51 hotels), the Apollo Hotels in the Netherlands and Belgium (13 hotels), and a portfolio of six hotels on the Balearic Islands.
The Leonardo Hotel Group‘s continued expansion, strategic acquisitions, and focus on delivering exceptional guest experiences solidify its position as a force to be reckoned with in the global hospitality industry. The journey, however, is far from over, as the group continues to seek new opportunities to grow and redefine the guest experience, ensuring a bright future for Leonardo Hotels.
