During a press conference, Hard Rock CEO for Asia Edward Tracy said the firm's focus on entertainment would differentiate it from the other bid contenders.
“Entertainment is our DNA,” he said. “We are an entertainment company first and a casino company second.”
Hard Rock is interested in bidding for the rights to operate an integrated resort in both municipal and regional locations, Tracy revealed. The company has submitted plans to two local governments.
Tracy said the company intends to expand its Asia-Pacific portfolio and is prepared to make a “major investment” in Japan to this end.
Asked about the level of investment Hard Rock was considering, Tracy said only that it would depend on the specific circumstances of a concession, including whether the company will be required to partner with a local institution.
Hard Rock has 30 years of experience in the Japanese market, with six Hard Rock Café locations currently in operation.