The latest in a string of transactions that are rapidly expanding the First Nation's portfolio of casino properties is the announcement that Snuneymuxw First Nation has acquired two more casinos in British Columbia from Great Canadian Entertainment.

Petroglyph Development Group Ltd. (PDG) purchased Casino Nanaimo on Vancouver Island from Great Canadian Entertainment in a June announcement.  The Snuneymuxw First Nation is the sole owner of PDG. Subsequently, Great Canadian Entertainment declared in September that it was selling Elements Casino Victoria to PDG.

The most recent transaction is the selling of Chances Maple Ridge and River Rock Casino Resort to PDG.

Regulatory approvals are required for this deal

With the announcements, PDG will rank among the biggest casino operators by revenue in British Columbia and the largest Canadian Indigenous-owned gaming operator by revenue in Canada upon closing, subject to regulatory and other approvals.

“Our growing partnership with Great Canadian Entertainment has brought us to what was envisioned by our Ancestors and guided by decades of Snuneymuxw Chiefs and Councils,” said Chief Mike Wyse, Xum’silum, Snuneymuxw First Nation. “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. 

Largest Casino Operator by Revenue

“Nation-to-Nation collaboration benefits all of us. We respectfully acknowledge Musqueam, on whose territory River Rock Resort Casino is located, and the Katzie, whose territory includes Chances Maple Ridge. Snuneymuxw looks forward to continuing our conversations with both Nations and exploring the economic development opportunities before us.”

Located in the heart of Coast Salish territory on the eastern coast of Vancouver Island, the Gulf Islands, the Fraser River, Burrard Inlet, and Howe Sound, Snuneymuxw is a First Nation of the Coast Salish People.

Big Shift in B.C. Gaming Landscape

“We believe that this milestone represents a major shift in British Columbia’s gaming landscape,” said Ian Simpson, Yaatqumtun, Chief Executive Officer of PDG. “Under Snuneymuxw ownership, the wealth these properties generate will continue to fuel local growth and reinvestment. Guided by our snawaylth, they will deliver world-class hospitality and entertainment grounded in respect for the interconnectedness of all life.”