Key Moments:
- The Ts’elxwéyeqw Tribe has announced the acquisition of Elements Casino Chilliwack from Great Canadian Entertainment.
- Elements Casino Chilliwack features more than 300 slot machines, table games, bingo, and live entertainment.
- This transaction adds to a series of recent British Columbia casino sales involving First Nations groups.
Expansion of First Nations Casino Ownership
The Ts’elxwéyeqw Tribe, consisting of seven First Nation communities within the Chilliwack River watershed, has made a significant move by acquiring Elements Casino Chilliwack from Great Canadian Entertainment. The transaction was carried out through an entity associated with Ts’elxwéyeqw Tribe Management Inc., and marks another high-profile casino sale in British Columbia.
Recent Transactions in the Region
This development follows a series of similar deals in the province. Earlier this month, Snuneymuxw First Nation secured ownership of River Rock Casino Resort and Chances Maple Ridge, both formerly operated by Great Canadian Entertainment. In June, Casino Nanaimo on Vancouver Island was sold to Petroglyph Development Group Ltd. (PDG), the economic arm of Snuneymuxw First Nation, while September saw an announcement of the sale of Elements Casino Victoria to PDG.
Details of Elements Casino Chilliwack
Located in the Fraser Valley region, Elements Casino Chilliwack provides an entertainment venue featuring over 300 slot machines, a combination of live and electronic table games, bingo, diverse dining options, and live entertainment experiences.
| Casino | Buyer | Date of Announcement |
|---|---|---|
| Elements Casino Chilliwack | Ts’elxwéyeqw Tribe | Today |
| River Rock Casino Resort | Snuneymuxw First Nation | Earlier this month |
| Chances Maple Ridge | Snuneymuxw First Nation | Earlier this month |
| Casino Nanaimo | Petroglyph Development Group Ltd. (Snuneymuxw First Nation) | June |
| Elements Casino Victoria | Petroglyph Development Group Ltd. (Snuneymuxw First Nation) | September |
Leadership Perspectives
Chief David Jimmie, Chief of Squiala First Nation and President of Ts’elxwéyeqw Tribe Management Ltd., stated: “This purchase marks an exciting milestone for our Nations and for the entire territory. By coming together in partnership, we are not only investing in a strong business opportunity, but also in the future of our people.
“The revenues generated through this acquisition will help strengthen our communities, create new opportunities, and ensure our Nations continue to play a leading role in the local economy. Additionally, we believe that local community-based ownership of Elements Casino Chilliwack will further strengthen the broader Fraser Valley community and economy.
It’s a proud moment that reflects how Indigenous leadership and collaboration can build a stronger, more inclusive future for everyone.”
Matt Anfinson, CEO of Great Canadian Entertainment, also commented: “We have had the privilege of being part of the Chilliwack community since we opened Elements Casino Chilliwack in 2012, and we believe that under the Ts’elxwéyeqw Group’s stewardship, the business will begin an exciting new chapter. We look forward to the closing and then working with the Ts’elxwéyeqw Group team during the transition period.”
Great Canadian Entertainment’s Portfolio
Great Canadian Entertainment operates gaming and entertainment properties in 23 cities across Canada, demonstrating its broad market presence. The recent sales highlight a shift in ownership within the British Columbia gaming market toward First Nations leadership.
- Author
Daniel Williams
