Fattal Hotel Group Enters the US, Acquiring Its First Hotel in New York

Fattal Hotels Group, the owner and operator of 329 hotels in 22 countries, including the flagship Leonardo Hotels chain, signed today (Wednesday, July 8) the purchase of The Blakely Hotel in Midtown Manhattan for approximately $38.5 million.

This is a significant acquisition that marks the first investment in a hotel in the United States and constitutes a significant milestone in the group's development from a leading European hotel operator to a global hotel group.

Located on West 55th Street between Sixth and Seventh Avenues, the 117-room property is centrally located in Manhattan's theater and entertainment district. It is a short walk from Central Park, Times Square and Fifth Avenue. The hotel, a historic pre-World War II building, features 117 guest rooms, including 42 suites, with rooms significantly larger than the average Manhattan hotel.

The Blakely Hotel, New York. Photo: Courtesy of Fattal Hotels Chain

Upon completion of the acquisition, Fattal Hotels Group plans to undertake a comprehensive renovation, renewal and positioning program at an estimated cost of approximately $13 million. The hotel will be closed during the renovation period and is scheduled to reopen in mid-2027 under one of the group's existing brands.

David Fattal, Founder and CEO of the group, called entering the American market a defining moment for the group, and also an important strategic step in continuing their international growth. The CEO went on to say that New York is one of the most important hospitality markets in the world and also the ideal destination for their first property in the United States.

He also went on to reiterate that, over the years, the group has built a strong presence in the main cities of Europe and developed a diverse portfolio of hospitality brands, appealing to both business and leisure travelers. The expansion to New York will, therefore, mark the next stage in their evolution into a global hotel group, he added.

Ronen Nissenbaum, CEO of Leonardo Hotels UK, Spain and Benelux, commented on the importance of their first hotel in the US to be located in the heart of one of the world's largest cities. He also expressed excitement about bringing the Leonardo Hotels service experience to the American market, adding that the hotel enjoys an exceptional location in Midtown Manhattan, at the center of one of the world's most dynamic destinations. Nissenbaum explained they see significant potential in the property while looking forward to repositioning it and opening it as a premium hotel that reflects the quality, standards and ambitions of the group.