Ilitch Gaming Takes Full Ownership of Ocean Casino Resort

Ilitch Gaming now owns Ocean Casino Resort outright after buying the remaining 50% interest in the Atlantic City property. The deal gives the recently formed casino group full control of a major Boardwalk resort as it prepares another acquisition in Mississippi.

Good to Know

• Ilitch first bought 50% of Ocean Casino Resort in 2021.
• The resort has 1,860 rooms and a 135,000-square-foot casino.
• Ilitch Gaming also oversees MotorCity Casino Hotel in Detroit.

Ocean Casino Joins Wider Ilitch Gaming Plan

Full ownership places Ocean Casino Resort alongside MotorCity Casino Hotel under Ilitch Gaming, the casino division created by Ilitch Companies in June 2026.

The group also has an agreement to buy Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort in D’Iberville. That transaction still needs regulatory approval and must meet standard closing conditions. Together, the properties give Ilitch Gaming operations in Michigan, New Jersey and potentially Mississippi.

Ilitch had shared ownership of Ocean with Luxor Capital Group after acquiring its first 50% stake in 2021. New Jersey regulators reviewed the original investment during hearings in 2021 and 2022, while the Division of Gaming Enforcement approved the final ownership transfer.

John Policicchio, Chief Executive Officer and Chief Development Officer of Ilitch Gaming, said:

“Ocean Casino Resort has become an exceptional resort destination through the dedication of our talented colleagues, sustained investment in the property, and a commitment to the guest experience.”

He added:

“Atlantic City remains one of the country’s most important gaming and hospitality markets, and achieving full ownership of Ocean represents an important milestone.

“We look forward to working with our Ocean colleagues to build on the momentum they have created.”

Ocean covers more than 20 acres along the Atlantic City Boardwalk. The property includes 1,860 renovated rooms and suites, a 4,500-seat entertainment venue and more than 160,000 square feet of meeting and convention space.

Ilitch Gaming said investment since 2021 has focused on operating performance, workplace culture and the guest experience. Full ownership now gives the company direct control over future upgrades and commercial plans at the resort.

Chris Ilitch chairs the new gaming business. The Ilitch family also controls Little Caesars and several Detroit sports and entertainment assets.

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