MGM Resorts Japan has announced its new “Osaka First” policy – a move which aims to “concentrate MGM’s management resources in Osaka to gain regional improvement plan approval for an IR facility in Japan.”
MGM has cooperated in a number of local events in recent months, such as the Tenjin Festival and Dotonbori Riverwalk, in order to enhance the company’s connection with Osaka – the current front-runner as an IR candidate location.
On 10 January, MGM Resorts International Chairman and CEO Jim Murren visited Osaka Prefecture Governor Ichiro Matusi and Osaka City Mayor Hirofumi Yoshimura, stating his opinion to them that Osaka is “the best.”
Jason Hyland, President and Representative Officer of MGM Resorts Japan, commented, “The IR proposal and regional development plan offered by MGM Resorts should reflect the wonderful history and culture of Osaka and the Kansai region. We hope to continue deepening our relationships with those in the regional tourist industries as well as the financial circles.”
Focusing all efforts on Osaka is certainly an aggressive strategy to win a Japanese IR license.
Governor Matsui has already announced that the public offering to select an IR partner will begin this Spring. This policy decision by MGM is an extremely strong backing for an Osaka IR to become a reality.
RelatedPosts
