The Snuneymuxw First Nation is poised to make a notable expansion in the provincial gaming industry through its pending acquisition of River Rock Casino Resort and Chances Maple Ridge from Great Canadian Entertainment.
Subject to regulatory approval and customary closing conditions, the transaction will position Petroglyph Development Group (PDG), the Nation’s wholly owned corporation, as one of British Columbia’s largest casino operators by revenue and is expected to establish it as the largest Indigenous-owned gaming operator in Canada, according to CBC.
Key Takeaways:
- Snuneymuxw First Nation’s Petroglyph Development Group to acquire River Rock Casino Resort and Chances Maple Ridge from Great Canadian Entertainment
- The move aims to position the Nation as one of BC’s largest casino operators and promote economic self-sufficiency
- Ongoing collaborations and community-focused strategies underscore sustainable growth and Indigenous empowerment
Snuneymuxw First Nation Expands Gaming Footprint in British Columbia
This acquisition follows PDG’s earlier 2024 purchases of Casino Nanaimo and Elements Casino Victoria, marking a growing collaboration with Great Canadian Entertainment. The cumulative effect of these transactions reflects Snuneymuxw’s ongoing efforts to achieve financial independence and economic self-determination while fostering sustainable growth to benefit both the First Nation and surrounding communities.
Chief Mike Wyse of Snuneymuxw highlighted in the press release the importance of cooperative relations within the Indigenous community, specifically acknowledging the Musqueam and Katzie Nations, whose traditional territories include the casinos being acquired. He noted that ongoing discussions are in place to explore further economic partnerships.
Erralyn Joseph, the president of PDG, also emphasized that the deal aligns with the corporation’s goal of increasing the leadership role and capital of Snuneymuxw in the regional economy, promoting sustainable growth and partnerships.
Musqueam Chief Wayne Sparrow expressed appreciation for the opportunity to collaborate on the River Rock transaction, noting an agreement in principle while indicating that community consultation remains ongoing.
PDG Chief Executive Officer Ian Simpson described the acquisition as a major shift in British Columbia’s gaming sector, with expected revenues supporting reinvestment in local communities. He underscored a commitment to operational values grounded in respect and interconnectedness.
The financial and legal aspects of the transaction are supported by advisory teams from McCarthy Tétrault LLP, KPMG and McMillan LLP.
Advancing Indigenous-Led Economic Development
Chances Maple Ridge, which opened in 2013 as a community-focused venue, recently enhanced its offerings with the launch of the PROLINE Sportsbook Lounge in May 2025. Under PDG ownership, the property is expected to maintain its emphasis on local engagement and introduce further innovation in hospitality and entertainment services.
Snuneymuxw’s growing gaming portfolio is part of a broader framework aimed at fostering economic self-sufficiency. By generating revenue from casino operations, the Nation intends to reinvest funds into community priorities such as infrastructure development and socio-economic programs.
“Under Snuneymuxw ownership, the wealth these properties generate will continue to fuel local growth and reinvestment,” said Simpson. “Guided by our snawaylth, they will deliver world-class hospitality and entertainment grounded in respect for the interconnectedness of all life.”
