Snuneymuxw First Nation Set to Acquire River Rock Casino Resort and Other BC Properties

A major update in the Canadian land-based casino industry is underway as Snuneymuxw First Nation moves forward with plans to purchase River Rock Casino Resort in Richmond, British Columbia, as well as additional gaming properties previously operated by Great Canadian Entertainment. This acquisition, reported in late 2025, would make Petroglyph Development Group, the Nation’s wholly-owned gaming corporation one of the largest Indigenous-owned casino operators by revenue in Canada. The deal is subject to regulatory approvals but marks a significant shift in ownership of key casino assets on Canada’s west coast.

The move builds on earlier transactions in which the Snuneymuxw First Nation already completed the acquisitions of Casino Nanaimo and Elements Casino Victoria, reinforcing a broader trend of increased Indigenous participation in the Canadian gaming sector.

This development represents not only a notable business milestone for the Nation and the local economy of Vancouver Island and Greater Vancouver, but also signals evolving dynamics in the ownership and management of major casino destinations across Canada.