PETROGLYPH DEVELOPMENT GROUP BECOMES CANADA’S LARGEST INDIGENOUS-OWNED HOSPITALITY AND CASINO OPERATOR

Jun 16, 2026

Snuneymuxw’s PDG completes acquisition of River Rock Casino Resort, the largest resort in Western Canada.

Snuneymuxw (Nanaimo),  B.C. (June 16, 2026) – Petroglyph Development Group Ltd. (PDG), a wholly owned corporation of Snuneymuxw First Nation (Snuneymuxw), announced today the successful closing of the sale of River Rock Casino Resort (River Rock), in Richmond, B.C., to a limited partnership owned by PDG and Musqueam Capital Corporation (MCC). With the acquisition of River Rock, Western Canada's largest casino resort, PDG becomes the largest First Nation-owned casino operator in Canada by revenue and is, through its ownership of the Courtyard by Marriott Nanaimo and now the River Rock Casino Resort, the country's leading Indigenous hospitality operator. The closing follows PDG’s earlier acquisitions of Casino Nanaimo, Elements Casino Victoria, Chances Maple Ridge and Great Canadian Casino Vancouver from Great Canadian Entertainment.

“Today is a historic day for Snuneymuxw and the Canadian gaming and hospitality industry,” said Chief Mike Wyse, Xum'silum, Snuneymuxw First Nation. “With the closing of the River Rock acquisition, we are taking combined ownership of the most recognized gaming destination in British Columbia, and cementing Snuneymuxw, through PDG, as a leading force in gaming in this province and the largest First Nation-owned casino and hospitality operator in Canada. This is the result of generations of work by our people to build a strong and self-determined future. We begin this new chapter on Musqueam territory with deep respect.”

PDG and MCC, the wholly owned corporation of Musqueam Indian Band (Musqueam), have completed a partnership agreement establishing shared ownership over the operations of River Rock, with MCC holding a minority ownership interest and PDG holding a majority ownership interest. PDG, through its subsidiary Lahal Casino Management LP, will also operate the casino and hotel.

Since opening in 2004, River Rock has established itself as the largest casino resort in Western Canada. Situated along the Fraser River, the property offers more than 1,200 slot machines and electronic table games, over 80 live table games, a live racebook, a poker room, nearly 400 hotel rooms, a 1,000-person theatre, a marina, a full-service spa and 10 food and beverage venues. Among them is Gordon Ramsay Steak, the first Canadian fine-dining restaurant from the Michelin-starred chef and television personality. For two decades, River Rock has set the benchmark for gaming, hospitality and entertainment in Metro Vancouver.

"These achievements did not happen by chance. They are the result of generations of preparation, disciplined leadership and a commitment to building a strong economic foundation," said Erralyn Joseph, Hun’qwii’thia, President of the PDG Board of Directors. “As a Board, we have worked to ensure PDG is ready to meet moments like this when they arise. We will continue to pursue sustainable economic development opportunities that align with our values, strengthen our Nation and create lasting prosperity for our people.”

“Adding this iconic property to PDG’s portfolio strengthens our position and expands our ability to create long-term value for Snuneymuxw,” said Ian Simpson, Yaatqumtun, Chief Executive Officer of PDG. “As the owner of the 172-room Courtyard by Marriott Nanaimo and the 396-room River Rock Casino Resort, Snuneymuxw is now also positioned as Canada's leading Indigenous hospitality operator.”

Today’s successful acquisition marks another significant step toward economic independence for Snuneymuxw and Musqueam. The sustainable revenues these properties generate provide the Nations with the resources to invest in community priorities, uphold Nation values and build lasting prosperity for generations to come.

“River Rock Casino Resort is one of the most successful and iconic gaming and hospitality destinations in Canada,” said Matt Anfinson, CEO, Great Canadian Entertainment.  “We have full confidence in PDG’s and MCC’s collective leadership and long-term vision for River Rock and the community it serves. We look forward to watching River Rock and its team members continuing to thrive while contributing to the economic success of the Snuneymuxw First Nation and Musqueam Indian Band.”

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About Snuneymuxw First Nation

Snuneymuxw is a vibrant First Nation of the Coast Salish People, located in the centre of Coast Salish territory on the eastern coast of Vancouver Island, the Gulf Islands and the Fraser River. Snuneymuxw territory and marine areas encompass one of the most productive and resource-rich areas at the heart of the Salish Sea. On December 23, 1854, the Crown entered the Snuneymuxw Sarlequun Treaty of 1854, constituting solemn promises and obligations of the Crown, including promises to forever and always protect Snuneymuxw villages, cultivate fields and hunting and fisheries as formerly. To learn more, please visit www.snuneymuxw.ca.

About Petroglyph Development Group

Petroglyph Development Group (PDG) is Snuneymuxw First Nation’s team that focuses on business and economic development. PDG is 100% owned by Snuneymuxw First Nation and its goals are guided by Snuneymuxw priorities. Grounded in snawaylth, the ancestral teachings passed down from Elders, PDG weaves Snuneymuxw knowledge with contemporary business. After starting with three companies and four assets, their diversified portfolio now spans forestry, gaming, hospitality, cannabis production and retail, tourism, transportation and logistics, business management, real estate and development, and convenience and fuel retail. To learn more, please visit www.petroglyphdg.com.

Media contact

Stephanie Hagenaars

50th Parallel Public Relations, representing Snuneymuxw First Nation
P: 778.225.0556 ext. 104
E: [email protected]