Hard Rock could open its first resort and casino in Virginia

Hard Rock International has agreed to operate the proposed Bristol Resort and Casino planned for the Bristol Mall, in Virginia.

Project development partner Jim McGlothlin announced the arrangement Friday afternoon. “We are excited to collaborate with Hard Rock, a well-respected and legendary entertainment brand with legions of devoted customers across the country and around the world,” McGlothlin, CEO of The United Company and partner on the project, said in a written statement.

“Hard Rock is known for its 31 award-winning hotels and 12 casinos, in addition to 218 cafes and Rock Shops which offer a wide range of amenities that appeal to many different audiences. Hard Rock’s iconic brand speaks to its deep roots in live music entertainment and world-class memorabilia collection, which will play a prominent role at Hard Rock Casino Bristol. This focus on music will complement our region’s country music heritage and dynamic music scene in the Twin City,” he added, as reported by Bristol Herald Courier.

The arrangement follows months of discussions. McGlothlin and partner Clyde Stacy announced plans for the proposed casino in August 2018, and legislation that could pave the way for its operation was approved in March by the Virginia General Assembly.

That legislation to allow casinos to operate in specific Virginia cities is pending Monday’s release of a report on gaming by the Virginia Joint Legislative Audit and Review Commission, re-enactment of the legislation during next year’s legislative session to start in January, and ultimately a public referendum for Bristol Virginia voters.

Hard Rock International, which is based near Ft. Lauderdale in Davie, Florida, is expected to make its announcement on Monday. The brand is owned by HRI parent entity The Seminole Tribe of Florida.

Bristol could become Hard Rock’s first Virginia location. The company currently operates cafes in Pigeon Forge, Nashville and Memphis, Tennessee. Hard Rock operates some 260 facilities in 75 countries, including 12 casinos.

“I cannot think of a better place for Hard Rock Casino to be than here in Bristol Virginia,” City Manager Randy Eads said Friday. “Hard Rock is synonymous with music. With our storied history of music here in Bristol, to have a new partner aligned with the music industry like Hard Rock is, I cannot think of a more exciting time to be in the city of Bristol.”

Hard Rock operates casinos in Hollywood and Tampa, Florida; Biloxi, Mississippi; Atlantic City, N.J.; Las Vegas and Lake Tahoe, Nevada; Tulsa, Oklahoma; Sioux City, Iowa; Wheatland, California, two in Canada and another in the Dominican Republic, according to its website.

“After vetting multiple leaders in the industry, we are convinced that Hard Rock is the best fit for our project and our community,” McGlothlin said. “The Hard Rock team understands the significant economic development impact the Hard Rock Casino Bristol will have on the city and the entire surrounding region, in terms of new jobs and additional tax revenue. As seasoned casino resort operators, they are committed to working closely with us to maximize the benefits of this project for local residents while highlighting the many opportunities this region has to offer to all.”