Snuneymuxw acquires two Great Canadian properties in 'transformational' purchase

The Snuneymuxw First Nation and its wholly owned subsidiary Petroglyph Development Group (PDG) have entered into a new agreement to acquire River Rock Casino Resort and Chances Maple Ridge from Great Canadian Entertainment in what was described as a "transformational" purchase for the Tribe.

"Our growing partnership with Great Canadian Entertainment has brought us to what was envisioned by our Ancestors and guided by decades of Snuneymuxw Chiefs and Councils. By securing ownership in four thriving casino operations, we are realizing a dream of long-term economic independence and creating lasting prosperity for our people and the communities we serve," Snuneymuxw Chief Mike Wyse said.

"Nation-to-Nation collaboration benefits all of us. We respectfully acknowledge Musqueam, on whose territory River Rock Resort Casino is located, and the Katzie, whose territory includes Chances Maple Ridge. Snuneymuxw looks forward to continuing our conversations with both Nations and exploring the economic development opportunities before us."

Snuneymuxw also purchased Casino Nanaimo and Elements Casino Victoria from Great Canadian earlier in 2025, as the October 30 transaction is still subject to customary closing and regulatory approvals.

"For over 20 years, River Rock Casino Resort has been the largest casino resort in Western Canada. Since its opening in 2013, Chances Casino Maple Ridge has been a cornerstone of the Maple Ridge community," Great Canadian CEO Matthew Anfinson said.

"PDG has proven to be a leader in casino operations. We are delighted to have the opportunity to transfer the ownership and operation of these two important properties to the PDG team."

Financial terms of the transaction have still yet to be released at the time of writing, but Snuneymuxw believes the purchase of River Rock Casino Resort and Chances Maple Ridge will allow the Tribe to generate "true financial independence."

Snuneymuxw will look to utilize the capital generated from its casino operations to invest directly into its current priorities, including strengthening its Tribal community, honoring sovereignty and building opportunities for the next generations.