Snuneymuxw First Nation in Nanaimo is buying two more casinos – Chances Maple Ridge and River Rock Casino Resort.
Chief Mike Wyse and the First Nation’s economic development corporation, Petroglyph Development Group, announced Thursday, Oct. 30, definitive agreements to purchase the two casinos from Great Canadian Entertainment. Earlier this year, Snuneymuxw purchased Casino Nanaimo and Elements Casino Victoria.
According to a press release from Petroglyph, the deals will lead to the corporation becoming Canada’s largest Indigenous-owned gaming operator by revenue.
“By securing ownership in four thriving casino operations, we are realizing a dream of long-term economic independence and creating lasting prosperity for our people and the communities we serve,” said Wyse.
He said Snuneymuxw respectfully acknowledges the Musqueam and Katzie First Nations, on whose traditional territory the two casinos are situated, and will continue conversations about shared economic development opportunities.
Great Canadian Entertainment CEO Matthew Anfinson said in the release that River Rock has been the largest casino resort in Western Canada for more than 20 years
“These acquisitions are aligned with our corporate commitment to restore a strong Snuneymuxw economy, one where Snuneymuxw capital, leadership and vision drive meaningful growth for our nation and strengthen partnerships across territories,” said Erralyn Joseph, president of PDG.
Musqueam and Snuneymuxw have reached an agreement in principle on a partnership on the River Rock acquisition, but details will still need to be finalized.
More to come.