Ilitch Cos. in Detroit has formed Ilitch Gaming, a unified gaming, hospitality, and entertainment platform that will oversee the organization’s gaming-related businesses and support future growth initiatives.
Ilitch Cos. CEO Chris Ilitch will serve as chairperson of Ilitch Gaming, Bruce Dall will serve as vice chairperson, and John Policicchio will serve as CEO and chief development officer. The operation of Ilitch Gaming remains subject to regulatory approvals.
Ilitch Gaming is said to build on the legacy of Marian Ilitch, co-founder of Little Caesars with her late husband, Mike. Marian Ilitch played a leading role in the development of commercial gaming in Detroit through her ownership of MotorCity Casino Hotel.
“My mother Marian Ilitch’s vision for MotorCity Casino Hotel and our success in Detroit over nearly three decades is the inspiration for what comes next,” says Chris Ilitch. “The formation of Ilitch Gaming marks a defining new chapter in the evolution of our gaming and hospitality business. We remain committed to creating memorable experiences for guests, supporting responsible gaming, and serving as a positive economic force in the communities where we operate.”
Ilitch Cos. also announced agreements to acquire Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort in D’Iberville, Miss. and the remaining ownership interest in Ocean Casino Resort in Atlantic City, N.J. Both transactions remain subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions.
Ocean Casino Resort and Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort represent two distinct opportunities within the Ilitch Gaming portfolio, according to the company. Since acquiring a 50 percent ownership interest in Ocean Casino Resort in 2021, Ilitch Cos. says it has worked closely with the property’s leadership team and employees to support significant capital investment, operational improvements, and continued growth.
Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort expands the platform into a third gaming market and adds a property known for its strong culture, loyal customer base, and commitment to the surrounding community.
“We are excited to build on the success of MotorCity Casino Hotel and Ocean Casino Resort and welcome Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort to the Ilitch Gaming portfolio,” says Policicchio. “Scarlet Pearl has built something special over the past decade, and we look forward to supporting its continued success. Our focus is straightforward: support great teams, deliver exceptional guest experiences, invest in the communities we serve, and responsibly grow the business over time.”
LuAnn Pappas, CEO of Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort, says, “We are incredibly proud of what our team has built over the past decade and grateful for the support we have received from our guests across the Gulf Coast. We believe Ilitch Gaming shares our commitment to hospitality, service, and community, and we are confident Scarlet Pearl is positioned for continued success.”
Until approvals are received and transactions are completed, each property will continue serving guests and operating as usual.
In Related News: Ilitch Cos. has made an undisclosed investment in the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL), which is set to begin play this fall with a Detroit expansion team playing in Little Caesars Arena.
“The PWHL’s rise has been one of the most compelling stories in professional sports, and we are proud to be part of that story,” says Chris Ilitch. “Investing in the PWHL means an opportunity to broaden the game’s reach, connect with new fans, and create pathways for athletes for generations to come.
“Our organization has long believed in the power of hockey to bring communities together and open doors for the next generation. From supporting youth and amateur hockey for nearly 60 years to investing in the future of women’s professional hockey, we are proud to help advance the game at every level.”
An additional investment was made by Kilmer Sports Ventures in Canada.
The PWHL is comprised of eight teams — Boston, Minnesota, Montréal, New York, Ottawa, Seattle, Toronto, and Vancouver — with Detroit, Hamilton, Las Vegas, and San Jose added as the 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th teams ahead of the 2026-27 season.
Launched on Jan. 1, 2024, the PWHL has broken multiple attendance records and holds the worldwide all-time record for a women’s hockey game.
For more information, visit ilitchcompanies.com.
