Snuneymuxw Tribe Acquires River Rock Casino to Extend Reach in British Columbia

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The Richmond based casino joins a long line of casinos the Indigenous-owned partnership has acquired.

River Rock Casino is acquired
Key Takeaways:
  • Indigenous-owned partnership adds River Rock Casino to its expanding portfolio
  • The deal strengthens long-term economic prospects for Musqueam and Snuneymuxw First Nations
  • River Rock remains a key entertainment hub with extensive gaming and hospitality facilities in Metro Vancouver

Great Canadian Entertainment has completed the sale of River Rock Casino Resort in Richmond, British Columbia, to a partnership led by Petroglyph Development Group and Musqueam Capital Corporation. 

The move, announced on Tuesday, hands control of one of Western Canada’s largest casino resorts to Indigenous-owned operators, extending Petroglyph’s rapid expansion across British Columbia gaming assets. 

River Rock sits on Musqueam land and remains a key gaming, hotel, and entertainment property in the Metro Vancouver market.

The sale was first announced in December last year, with the sale fully finalised this week.

Indigenous Ownership Gains Scale

The deal adds River Rock to a growing portfolio that already includes Casino Nanaimo, Elements Casino Victoria, Chances Maple Ridge, and Great Canadian Casino Vancouver. 

Petroglyph, which is wholly owned by Snuneymuxw First Nation, has said the strategy is to build long-term economic value through gaming and hospitality assets. 

Musqueam Capital, the economic development arm of Musqueam Indian Band, brings a land and partnership dimension that reflects the property’s location and operating history.

Long-Term Operating Footprint

River Rock opened in 2004, with more than 1,200 slot machines and electronic table games, over 80 live tables, a poker room, a theatre, a spa, nearly 400 hotel rooms, and 10 food and beverage outlets. 

Great Canadian CEO Matt Anfinson said in a statement, “River Rock Casino Resort is one of the most successful and iconic gaming and hospitality destinations in Canada.” 

“We have full confidence in PDG’s and MCC’s collective leadership and long-term vision for River Rock and the community it serves. We look forward to watching River Rock and its team members continuing to thrive while contributing to the economic success of the Snuneymuxw First Nation and Musqueam Indian Band.” 

Financial terms were not disclosed.