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Ilitch Cos. announced June 18 the launch of Ilitch Gaming. The new platform consolidates its casino and hospitality assets, including Ocean Casino Resort in Atlantic City.

Ocean Casino Resort has been part of the Ilitch portfolio since 2021. At that time, the company acquired a 50% ownership stake through a partnership with Luxor Capital Group. Under the new arrangement, Ilitch Cos. plans to acquire the remaining ownership interest in the Atlantic City property, moving toward full ownership.

The deal is subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions. Terms were not immediately disclosed. The announcement also includes plans to purchase Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort in D’Iberville, Miss. Until all approvals are completed, both properties will continue operating as usual.

The new platform will also incorporate MotorCity Casino Hotel in Detroit. Together the entities will form the foundation of Ilitch Gaming’s multistate portfolio of casino and entertainment assets. The company says the platform is designed to unify its gaming operations and support future expansion across the sector.

Ilitch Cos. CEO Chris Ilitch will serve as chairperson of Ilitch Gaming. Meanwhile, Bruce Dall will serve as vice chairperson and John Policicchio as CEO and chief development officer.

‘The inspiration for what comes next’

Ilitch said the move builds on the company’s long-standing presence in gaming and hospitality.

“My mother Marian Ilitch’s vision for MotorCity Casino Hotel and our success in Detroit over nearly three decades is the inspiration for what comes next,” he said. “The formation of Ilitch Gaming marks a defining new chapter in the evolution of our gaming and hospitality business. We remain committed to creating memorable experiences for guests, supporting responsible gaming, and serving as a positive economic force in the communities where we operate.”

Ilitch Cos. is also the parent company of Little Caesars.

Policicchio said, “We are excited to build on the success of MotorCity Casino Hotel and Ocean Casino Resort and welcome Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort to the Ilitch Gaming portfolio.”

The move comes amid continued consolidation and ownership reshaping in the Atlantic City casino market. Recently, Caesars Entertainment entered into a $17.6 billion acquisition agreement with Fertitta Entertainment, as reported by NJBIZ.