Published on: November 2, 2025, at 07:17h.

Updated on: November 2, 2025, at 07:18h.

• British Columbia First Nation has finalized two additional casino purchases this year
• River Rock Casino Resort and Chances Maple Ridge are the latest properties sold by Great Canadian Entertainment

Snuneymuxw First Nation has revealed its acquisition of two more casinos in British Columbia from Great Canadian Entertainment, marking a significant expansion of the First Nation’s casino portfolio.

A transaction announced in June saw Great Canadian Entertainment transfer Casino Nanaimo on Vancouver Island to Petroglyph Development Group Ltd. (PDG), a company wholly owned by the Snuneymuxw First Nation. Subsequently, in September, Great Canadian revealed the sale of Elements Casino Victoria to PDG.

The latest acquisition includes River Rock Casino Resort and Chances Maple Ridge, now also under PDG’s management.

Pending Regulatory Approvals for the Deal

Upon completion of the acquisition, pending regulatory and other necessary approvals, PDG is set to become one of the largest casino operators in British Columbia by revenue and the foremost Indigenous-owned gaming operator in Canada.

“Our ongoing partnership with Great Canadian Entertainment is fulfilling the vision laid out by our Ancestors, supported by years of leadership from Snuneymuxw Chiefs and Councils,” stated Chief Mike Wyse, Xum’silum, Snuneymuxw First Nation. “Owning four prosperous casinos allows us to achieve long-term economic independence and creates enduring prosperity for our people and the communities we serve.”

Setting New Standards in Casino Operations

“Collaboration between Nations proves beneficial for all involved. We acknowledge the Musqueam Nation, whose territory encompasses River Rock Resort Casino, and the Katzie Nation, whose area includes Chances Maple Ridge. The Snuneymuxw First Nation is eager to maintain these discussions with both Nations in exploring economic development potentials.”

Situated in the heart of Coast Salish territory, Snuneymuxw is a First Nation of the Coast Salish Peoples, covering regions of Vancouver Island, the Gulf Islands, the Fraser River, Burrard Inlet, and Howe Sound.

Transformative Changes in B.C.’s Gaming Industry

“We anticipate that this significant event will mark a transformative phase in the gaming industry of British Columbia,” expressed Ian Simpson, Yaatqumtun, Chief Executive Officer of PDG. “With Snuneymuxw at the helm, the wealth generated by these establishments will continue to encourage local development and reinvestment, while upholding our values, fostering world-class hospitality and entertainment in harmony with the interconnectedness of all life.”