Ilitch Gaming has successfully acquired the remaining 50% share of Ocean Casino Resort, located in Atlantic City, New Jersey, thereby achieving complete ownership of the venue and enhancing its diverse offerings in gaming, hospitality, and entertainment.

Initially disclosed in June, this transaction confirms Ilitch Gaming’s total ownership of the resort, after purchasing a 50% stake back in 2021. Ilitch Gaming is the newly established gaming venture of the Ilitch family, founders of the Little Caesars pizza empire. The company is led by Chris Ilitch, son of the late Mike Ilitch and Marian Ilitch.

John Policicchio, CEO and Chief Development Officer of Ilitch Gaming, highlighted that the company has collaborated closely with the leadership of Ocean Casino Resort over the years to enhance operations and improve guest services.

“Ocean Casino Resort has evolved into a premier destination thanks to the commitment of our dedicated team, ongoing investments in the facility, and a focus on the guest experience,” Policicchio stated.

He further remarked that “Atlantic City is among the nation’s premier markets for gaming and hospitality,” adding that the completion of this acquisition signifies “a major milestone.”

“We eagerly anticipate collaborating with our Ocean team to build on the progress they have achieved,” Policicchio remarked.

Since acquiring its initial interest in 2021, Ilitch Gaming has made significant investments aimed at enhancing the guest experience, improving operational efficiencies, nurturing workplace culture, and preparing the resort for sustainable growth.

Situated on over 20 beachfront acres along the Atlantic City Boardwalk, Ocean Casino Resort boasts 1,860 renovated guest rooms and suites, a 135,000-square-foot casino floor, a 4,500-seat entertainment venue, and more than 160,000 square feet designated for meetings and conventions.

The acquisition comes after the establishment of Ilitch Gaming in June as a focused platform to manage the gaming ventures of the Ilitch Companies and facilitate future growth opportunities.

Ilitch Gaming is also responsible for overseeing MotorCity Casino Hotel in Detroit and will manage Ocean Casino Resort pending regulatory approvals. Furthermore, the company has plans to acquire Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort located in D’Iberville, Mississippi, also subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions.