Snuneymuxw First Nation buys Coquitlam casino

Snuneymuxw First Nation has reached an agreement to acquire Great Canadian Casino Vancouver, one of the Lower Mainland’s largest gaming and entertainment venues.

The purchase of the Coquitlam property just north of the Fraser River, announced on Dec. 19 by Petroglyph Development Group (PDG) – the economic development arm of the Nanaimo-based nation – marks a significant expansion of the its gaming portfolio.

Chief Mike Wyse (Xum’silum) said the deal reflects Snuneymuxw’s disciplined approach to growth and long-term economic independence.

“The proposed acquisition of Great Canadian Casino Vancouver marks another step toward economic self-determination for Snuneymuxw, strengthening our long-term prosperity, financial independence and restoring an economy that thrived for thousands of years,” he said.

The agreement represents Snuneymuxw’s fifth major casino acquisition in B.C. within the past year; it has also purchased Casino Nanaimo and Elements Casino Victoria, and has entered into purchase agreements for River Rock Casino Resort and Chances Maple Ridge.

With the addition of the Coquitlam property, PDG is positioned to become one of the largest casino operators in B.C. and the largest Indigenous-owned gaming operator in Canada by revenue.

Erralyn Joseph, president of PDG, said the expansion is the result of years of economic development work by the Nation, which numbers close to 2,000 members.

“Over the last 10 years, PDG has grown from three companies to 13, and counting,” Joseph said, adding the group intends to continue expanding “with a measured and strategic approach.”

The Coquitlam casino, formerly known as the Hard Rock Casino, opened in 2001. Since its ribbon cutting the casino has provided the City of Coquitlam with approximately $166.96 million in provincial gaming revenue, according to the British Columbia Lottery Corporation. In 2024/25 alone, the city added nearly $6.55 million.

Ian Simpson, chief executive officer of PDG, said the Nation is committed to maintaining the casino’s role as a local economic driver.

“Great Canadian Casino Vancouver has long been an important contributor to the Coquitlam economy, and we’re committed to ensuring those benefits continue,” Simpson said.

Great Canadian Entertainment CEO Matthew Anfinson said the company is confident the casino will continue to thrive under Snuneymuxw ownership, crediting the strength of its workforce and community ties.

The transaction is subject to regulatory and third-party approvals, including approval under the Competition Act.