Snuneymuxw Buys Two Casinos, Becomes Canada’s Biggest Indigenous Operator

Chief Mike Wyse, xum’silum of the Snuneymuxw First Nation, said that by securing ownership of four thriving casino operations, the Nation is advancing toward long-term economic independence and creating lasting prosperity for its people and the surrounding communitiesImage Source: Shutterstock.com

Petroglyph Development Group (PDG),a wholly owned corporation of the Snuneymuxw First Nation, and Great Canadian Entertainmentannounced that they have finalized a deal under which the former will acquire two casino businesses from the latter. With these purchases, PDG will become the largest Indigenous owned gaming operator by revenue in Canada.

Petroglyph Development Group and Great Canadian Entertainment Finalize Deal

Upon closing the deal and subsequent proceedings, PGD will acquire River Rock Casino Resort andChances Maple Ridge. Building on PDG’s recent acquisitions of Casino Nanaimo and Elements Casino Victoria earlier this year, these new transactions further highlight the strong partnership between PDG and Great Canadian Entertainment. They also reflect the continued growth and momentum of PDG’s expanding gaming platform.

In a statement, PGD explained that these acquisitions represent a significant step forward in advancing economic self-determination for the Snuneymuxw First Nation. They will help strengthen Snuneymuxw’s long-term prosperity, enhance financial independence, and contribute to the restoration of an economy that sustained the Nation for thousands of years.

Officials Comment on the Deal

Chief Mike Wyse, xum’silum of the Snuneymuxw First Nation,stated that the growing partnership with Great Canadian Entertainment reflects the vision of their Ancestors and the guidance of decades of Snuneymuxw Chiefs and Councils. He emphasized that by securing ownership of four thriving casino operations, the Nation is advancing toward long-term economic independence and creating lasting prosperity for its people and the surrounding communities. 

Chief Wyse also highlighted the importance of Nation-to-Nation collaboration and respectfully acknowledged the Musqueam, on whose territory River Rock Resort Casino is located, and the Katzie, whose territory includes Chances Maple Ridge. He noted that Snuneymuxw looks forward to continuing dialogue with the Katzie Nation and exploring future economic development opportunities.

These feelings seem to be mirrored by Erralyn Joseph, president of PDG. He stated that these acquisitions align with the organization’s commitment to rebuilding a strong Snuneymuxw economy – one driven by Snuneymuxw capital, leadership.  Joseph expressed gratitude to the Musqueam and Katzie Nations for their collaborative spirit and emphasized PDG’s intention to build new, sustainable, and long-lasting relationships with the Municipalities of Richmond and Maple Ridge.

Speaking of the Musqueam Nation, Chief Wayne Sparrowexpressed gratitude to the Snuneymuxw Nation for initiating the opportunity to partner on the acquisition of River Rock Casino. He noted that Musqueam and Snuneymuxw have reached an agreement in principle on a letter of intent and that they will be working to finalize the details over the coming weeks while engaging in meaningful consultation with community members. 

Finally, Ian Simpson, Yaatqumtun, chief executive officer of PDG, stated that this milestone represents a significant shift in British Columbia’s gaming landscape. He noted that under Snuneymuxw ownership, the wealth generated by these properties will continue to support local growth and reinvestment, and provide world-class hospitality and entertainment.