MGM Resorts International appears to have won the Osaka integrated resort race, after the regions prefecture government revealed that the US casino, hospitality and entertainment firm’s offering is the only bid on the table, reports Inside Asian Gaming.
The company reaffirmed its commitment to pursuing the construction of an integrated resort in Osaka last year, with Galaxy Entertainment Group and Genting Singapore also thought to be in the running.
This followed the withdrawals of Las Vegas Sands, Melco Resorts and Entertainment and Wynn Resorts, with focuses said to have been firmly switched to other areas of the country, chiefly Yokohama and Tokyo.
As Osaka’s deadline for applying for the request for proposal stage passing recently, it is said that MGM alongside its local partner Orix was the only consortium to submit a proposal. This leaves the firm in prime position to win one of three IR licenses that is expected to be granted by the national government next year.
Genting Singapore said in a statement: “This is a tough decision for us, and it’s unfortunate after the many exchanges we have had with everyone in Osaka.
“In the future, Genting Singapore will focus on participating in the Yokohama IR request for concept, which is currently underway. We will do our utmost to provide an attractive proposal including MICE and a variety of leisure facilities to make it a must-visit destination.”
Jim Murren, chairman and CEO of MGM, who last week revealed he is to leave his role at the end of his current contract, previously said of the firm’s commitment to Osaka: “We will bring world class entertainment, exciting cultural events, convention expertise, and premium dining and retail experiences that will have broad appeal both nationally and internationally. We have extensive experience in developing and operating large scale integrated resorts across multiple regions.
“MGM Resorts will develop a truly unique destination that will generate significant economic activity for the region and increase employment opportunities while delivering an attractive return for all stakeholders.”
