Hard Rock International Launches Hard Rock Digital Joint Venture with Gaming Industry Veteran Leaders
December 20, 2020
Hollywood, Fla. – Hard Rock International (HRI), a global leader in hospitality and entertainment, today announced the launch of Hard Rock Digital as part of its ongoing commitment to innovation and diversification of its portfolio in high-growth markets. Hard Rock Digital is a joint venture with gaming industry veterans, and will be the exclusive Hard Rock and Seminole Gaming (SGA) vehicle for interactive gaming and sports betting, globally.
Hard Rock Digital will leverage HRI and SGA’s extensive database of more than 130 million customers and footprint of nearly 250 land-based venues across 76 countries to provide an omni-channel offering for interactive gaming and sports betting. Hard Rock Digital will be fully capitalized by SGA, HRI and its partners, providing full financial support and backing for this new joint venture. SGA maintains an investment-grade rating from both S&P Global Ratings and Fitch Ratings.
“With the launch of Hard Rock Digital, we are broadening our digital business which enhances consumer experiences and offerings across our interactive gaming and sportsbook offerings,” said Jim Allen, Chairman of HRI. “Hard Rock Digital also intends to pursue strategic branding and distribution opportunities both within the U.S. and globally. In the U.S. alone, the potential future market size is estimated at $7 billion for sports betting and $14 billion for online gaming*.”
Hard Rock Digital will be managed by gaming industry leaders Rafi Ashkenazi, Executive Managing Director and Executive Chair, Marlon Goldstein, Executive Managing Director and CEO and Matt Primeaux, Executive Managing Director and President. Mr. Ashkenazi will join Hard Rock Digital in 2021 following a garden leave period. Prior to the formation of Hard Rock Digital, the executives were part of the leadership team that facilitated the growth and transformation of several technology and interactive gaming businesses, including Playtech, The Stars Group, and FOX Bet. The management team will report to a newly formed, independent Board of Directors for Hard Rock Digital, which will be chaired by Jim Allen, Chairman of HRI. Hard Rock Digital will be based in Hollywood, FL.
“We are honored to join forces with Hard Rock International on this new venture,” said Marlon Goldstein, Executive Managing Director and CEO for Hard Rock Digital. “Hard Rock International is consistently at the forefront of innovation and vision in the gaming industry and the ‘Hard Rock’ gaming, hospitality and entertainment venues are iconic worldwide. We look forward to providing an authentic, digital experience for Hard Rock’s global fan base within a comprehensive, omni-channel offering.”
To learn more about Hard Rock Digital visit hardrockdigital.com. To learn more about the Hard Rock brand, visit hardrock.com.
*Numbers reflect predicted market size by 2025 via Morgan Stanley
About Hard Rock:
Hard Rock International (HRI) is one of the most globally recognized companies with venues in 248 locations spanning 76 countries that include owned, licensed or managed Hotels, Casinos, Rock Shops®, Cafes and Hard Rock Live concert halls. Beginning with an Eric Clapton guitar, Hard Rock owns and showcases the world’s most valuable collection of music memorabilia at more than 83,000 pieces. In 2020, Hard Rock International was honored as one of Forbes Magazine’s Best Employers for Diversity and Top Employers for Women. Hard Rock was recognized as one of the top performing hotel brands in J.D. Power’s 2020 North America Hotel Guest Satisfaction Study for the second consecutive year. HRI destinations are located in the world’s greatest international gateway cities, including its two most successful flagship properties in Florida and home to the world’s first Guitar Hotel® in South Florida, where its headquarters are located. The brand is owned by HRI parent entity The Seminole Tribe of Florida. For more information on Hard Rock International visit www.hardrock.com or shop.hardrock.com.
