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Snuneymuxw First Nation is now the largest Indigenous-owned hospitality and casino operator in Canada by revenue, after the purchase of the River Rock Casino Resort in Richmond was made official on Tuesday. (Image Credit: SFN)
make it 5

Snuneymuxw First Nation finalizes purchase of fifth B.C. casino

Jun 16, 2026 | 4:01 PM

NANAIMO — Snuneymuxw First Nation (SFN) says it’s now official: they are the largest Indigenous-owned hospitality and casino operator in the country, by revenue.

On Tuesday, June 16, SFN formalized the purchase of the River Rock Casino Resort in Richmond through their economic development arm, the Petroglyph Development Group (PDG).

This brings the number of casinos operated by SFN to five, after announcing the purchase of the Great Canadian Casino Vancouver in Coquitlam and Chances Casino in Maple Ridge last year, and Casino Nanaimo and Elements Casino Victoria in 2024.

The Courtyard by Marriott Nanaimo was also formally put under PDG’s wing earlier in March, part of a co-ownership model when the hotel first opened in 2023.

SFN chief Mike Wyse said it’s not only a historic day for SFN, but also for the Canadian gaming and hospitality industry, a result of “generations” of work to build a self-determined future.

“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. We begin this new chapter on Musqueam territory with deep respect.”

PDG will have the majority ownership in River Rock, in partnership with the Musqueam Indian Band (Musqueam), with PDG operating the casino and hotel through its subsidiary, Lahal Casino Management LP.

In a new release, SFN said the revenues generated from the properties will be invested back into their community on priority projects, and will uphold Nation values and build lasting prosperity for generations to come.”

More information is available at snuneymuxw.ca, or at petroglyphdg.com.

First opened in 2004, River Rock offers a variety of slot machines, electronic and live table games, a live racebook, a 1,000-person theatre, and nearly 400 hotel rooms.
First opened in 2004, River Rock offers a variety of slot machines, electronic and live table games, a live racebook, a 1,000-person theatre, and nearly 400 hotel rooms. (Image Credit: SFN)

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