Galaxy Entertainment Group Vice Chairman Francis Lui has described the news that Yokohama will officially bid for one of three IR licenses to be issued by the Japanese government next year as “pleasing” and a sign of progress.
“The fact that so many cities, including Yokohama, are interested in an IR bid shows that momentum is increasing, which is a very pleasing thing for IR operators like us,” Lui said in a statement.
“The understanding and interest in IRs by the Japanese people will lead to more advanced discussions, generating more competitive ideas, and an innovative IR completely unique to Japan will be born from it.”
Galaxy Entertainment Group was one of 12 operators to respond to a Request for Information conducted by Yokohama in 2018 and was title sponsor of the recent Galaxy Entertainment EuroJapan Cup clash at Yokohama’s Nissan Stadium between Manchester City and Yokohama F. Marinos.
The company is also making steady efforts in Japan, with its local initatives including the three-week GEG Japan-Macau IR Management Mentorship Program, starting on 26 August, which provides Japanese students an opportunity to learn hospitality skills.
Galaxy has stated, “We will continue to research and analyze entry to Japan and would like to learn from those involved in the hope of developing an IR that will become a world-class landmark.”