Las Vegas Sands has been noticeably silent in the pursuit of a Japanese IR in recent months, but that all changed this week with the company’s Managing Director – Global Development, George Tanasijevich, revealing that LVS plans to enter a joint bid with local companies for an Osaka IR.
As reported by the Sankei Shimbun, Tanasijevich said Sands has been in discussion with several companies, stating, “We are consulting with companies who have expertise and are willing to help us deepen our understanding of Japanese business practice and culture. It is a company that we can cooperate with to prepare a strong bid and lead us both to success.”
It is believed that Osaka city and prefecture will publicly invite ideas from IR operators this spring and aim to select one in the summer. Tanasijevich stressed that LVS was currently putting its efforts behind Osaka, also the primary target of MGM Resorts, Melco Resorts and Entertainment and Genting Singapore.
He also observed that if things progress in Osaka, it would enable thousands of local companies to be involved in the venture.
It is likely, however, that LVS is keeping its options open with Tanasijevich stating, “Our business model would also be suitable for Tokyo and Yokohama.”