The Snuneymuxw First Nation has reached a historic economic milestone through its business arm, the Petroglyph Development Group (PDG), by successfully acquiring the River Rock Casino Resort and Chances Maple Ridge from Great Canadian Entertainment.
These significant purchases cement PDG’s position as Canada’s largest Indigenous-owned gaming operator by revenue, marking a pivotal shift in the country’s gaming landscape.
These latest acquisitions build upon PDG’s prior purchases of Casino Nanaimo and Elements Casino Victoria, resulting in a considerable expansion of the Nation’s overall gaming portfolio.
According to the PDG, the move represents a major, generational step toward advancing the Snuneymuxw Nation’s economic self-determination and securing long-term prosperity, fulfilling a vision to restore an economy that has sustained the Snuneymuxw people for generations.
The leadership acknowledged the collaboration of the Musqueam and Katzie Nations, whose traditional territories include the newly acquired properties.
All parties have expressed a commitment to continued dialogue and the intention to develop lasting partnerships with the municipalities of Richmond and Maple Ridge, emphasizing community support alongside economic growth.
The acquisitions were hailed as aligning with the Nation’s commitment to rebuilding a strong Snuneymuxw economy led by Indigenous capital and leadership.
The milestone not only secures financial independence for Snuneymuxw members but also ensures that wealth generated from the casinos will continue to be reinvested locally, supporting economic growth and maintaining world-class entertainment experiences for surrounding communities in British Columbia.
Chief Mike Wyse, xum’silum of the Snuneymuxw First Nation:
“The acquisition fulfills the vision of our Ancestors and the work of generations of leadership. Securing ownership of four successful casinos strengthens the Nation’s financial independence and creates prosperity for both Snuneymuxw members and surrounding communities.”
Erralyn Joseph, president of PDG:
“The acquisitions align with the Nation’s commitment to rebuilding a strong Snuneymuxw economy led by Indigenous capital and leadership.”
Ian Simpson, Yaatqumtun, chief executive officer of PDG:
“This milestone marks a pivotal moment in British Columbia’s gaming landscape. Under Snuneymuxw ownership, casino-generated wealth will continue to support local reinvestment, economic growth, and world-class entertainment experiences.”
