Leonardo Hotels is a household name in the world of hospitality. This dynamic hotel chain, boasting over 160 properties across Europe, is a testament to the vision and dedication of its founder, David Fattal. It all started in 2006, when Fattal, already a seasoned entrepreneur with the successful Fattal Holdings Ltd. based in Tel Aviv, saw an opportunity to expand into the hotel industry.
The first Leonardo Hotel opened its doors in Nürnberg, Germany, marking the beginning of a remarkable journey. This ambitious venture quickly caught the attention of the world, with the brand’s distinctive logo being registered both in Germany and internationally in 2007 and 2008, respectively.
Expansion: A Global Reach
From the very beginning, Leonardo Hotels was destined for greatness. The brand embraced a bold strategy of international expansion, acquiring hotels across Europe, starting with Germany, Belgium, and Switzerland. This ambitious undertaking was fueled by a combination of Fattal’s own resources and investments from various funds.
The expansion continued at a rapid pace, with Leonardo Hotels extending its reach to Israel, Hungary, Austria, Great Britain, Spain, Italy, Netherlands, Czech Republic, Ireland, Poland, and Romania. This relentless growth was further bolstered by the announcement in April 2022 of a dedicated fund, designed to support even greater expansion across the European continent.
A Family of Brands
The Leonardo Hotels story is one of growth and diversification. While Fattal Holdings remains the parent company, Sunflower Management GmbH & Co. KG serves as the European management arm. Leonardo Hotels, owned either directly by Fattal Holdings or its subsidiaries or operated under lease agreements, currently employs over 2,700 individuals in Central Europe alone.
Yoram Biton, the Managing Director of Leonardo Hotels Central Europe, with headquarters in Berlin, is the driving force behind the brand’s continued success. Under his leadership, the brand has evolved into a family of four distinct brands: Leonardo Hotels, Leonardo Boutique Hotels, Leonardo Royal Hotels, and NYX Hotels by Leonardo Hotels, each catering to a specific segment of the discerning traveler.
A Legacy of Acquisitions and Success
Leonardo Hotels’ story is marked by strategic acquisitions that have played a significant role in the brand’s growth. Jurys Inn, with its 51 hotels in the United Kingdom and Ireland, became part of the Leonardo family in 2022. This was followed by the acquisition of Apollo Hotels, with their 13 properties in the Netherlands and Belgium, in 2018. The addition of six hotels in the Balearic Islands further solidified Leonardo’s presence in Spain.
Leonardo Hotels’ journey from a single property in Nürnberg to a globally recognized hospitality brand is a testament to the power of vision, strategic planning, and unwavering dedication. With its continued expansion and diverse portfolio of brands, Leonardo Hotels is poised to become an even more significant player in the world of hospitality.
