Norton Rose Fulbright advises Leonardo Hotels on acquisition of four Intercity Hotels

Global law firm Norton Rose Fulbright has once again advised Leonardo Hotels on its acquisition of four IntercityHotels previously operated under the Steigenberger brand in Nuremberg, Freiburg, Magdeburg and Erfurt. This transaction marks an important milestone in Leonardo Hotels’ growth strategy in Germany.

Leonardo Hotels is part of the Fattal Hotel Group and operates more than 300 hotels across 21 countries. The brand portfolio includes Leonardo Hotels, Leonardo Royal Hotels, Leonardo Boutique Hotels, NYX Hotels and Leonardo Limited Edition.

The four properties, which have been part of the Steigenberger portfolio for over 30 years, will initially operate under a white-label concept and undergo modernization until mid-2026. Following completion, they will be rebranded under the Leonardo Hotels brand. With this acquisition, Leonardo Hotels expands its presence in Germany to 73 hotels, adding 638 rooms. All four hotels, located in close proximity to main railway stations, will remain open during renovations. The modernization will follow a resource-efficient approach, retaining high-quality existing elements while selectively upgrading other areas to preserve value and deliver a contemporary offering.

The Norton Rose Fulbright team advised Leonardo Hotels on all legal aspects of the transaction, including due diligence, contract drafting and negotiation, as well as regulatory and tax matters.

Lead partner Dr Maren Stölting (Real Estate, Munich) commented:

“We are delighted to have supported Leonardo Hotels in this strategically important acquisition. The acquisition of these four hotels represents a significant milestone in its growth strategy.”

Tamar Cohen, Group Legal Counsel of Leonardo Hotels Group, added:

“The successful completion of this transaction highlights the close and trusted collaboration between our in-house team and Norton Rose Fulbright. Together, we have taken an important step in advancing Leonardo Hotels’ growth strategy. This acquisition strengthens our presence in Germany and lays the foundation for a modern and sustainable offering for our guests.”

The Norton Rose Fulbright team led by Dr Maren Stölting also included Partner Simon Weppner (Tax, Duesseldorf), Counsel Dr Riccardo Marinello (Real Estate, Frankfurt), Counsel Dr Claus Pegatzky (Public Commercial, Frankfurt), Senior Associate Valentina Navetta (Corporate&Real Estate, Munich), Senior Associate Tankred Freiberger (Real Estate, Munich), Senior Associate Sarah Heufelder (Tax, Munich) and Associate Dr Anna Katharina Lintz (Public Commercial, Frankfurt).

The in-house team of Leonardo Hotels Group was led by Tamar Cohen (Group Legal Counsel) and included Jana Schlimgen (Legal Counsel).