Mohegan Gaming & Entertainment (MGE) has signed a multi-year agreement with JC Hospitality to manage the gaming area at Virgin Hotels in Las Vegas Strip. That will make Mohegan the first tribal casino operator in Las Vegas Strip. Also, this is Virgin founder Richard Branson’s first venture in the gaming industry.
The 1,500 room property is being refurbished after billionaire Richard Branson bought it from JC Hospitality LLC, owner of Hard Rock Hotel and Casino this March. Before the end of next year, the hotel will be opened as Virgin Hotels Las Vegas. After the company is done with the redevelopment and has gained the approval of the Nevada Gaming Commission, Mohegan will start its operation. The complete 60,000 square foot gaming space will be under the purview of the tribal casino operator.
JC Hospitality CEO Richard Bosworth said that his group tied up with MGE as they “pride themselves on traditional principles, in sync with modern values.” On the other hand, MGE CEO Mario Kontomerkos said: “growing reach into yet another legendary global entertainment capital.” Currently, MGE is operating its flagship Mohegan Sun casino in Connecticut and is also leading the gaming operations at multiple venues across the US. Kontomerkos went on to say, “Together with Virgin Hotels, experience seekers all over the world will have the opportunity to partake in an extraordinary guest journey that only our strategic alliance can deliver.”
MGE has also made its presence in the international market with the Canadian side of Niagara Falls and recently in Incheon, among the best South Korea online casinos.
The company is also one of the contenders in the bid to secure the only casino license at the €8 billion integrated resort project that is situated at Athens’ former Hellinikon airport. Mohegan is trying to increase its presence in Asian subcontinent by acquiring a second property in Hokkaido, Japan.
