MGM

MGM Resorts International has unveiled further details of its $1.06bn Hard Rock Rocksino Northfield Park acquisition, as it held a pep rally for employees of the property.

The purchase of the re-branded MGM Northfield Park is expected to close in April, with it stated that the entity needed “a name symbolic of MGM Resorts’ legacy as an entertainment and hospitality leader”.

It’s new purchase offers in excess of 200 live harness races each year, in addition to featuring 2,300 gaming devices, varied dining options, live music and comedy events, and will see its tap sports bar concept, which has a variety of locations such as MGM Grand Las Vegas and MGM National Harbor, replace the Hard Rock Café.

The 1,900 seat concert style music hall is to become Center Stage from its current Hard Rock Live moniker, Club Velvet, which hosts comedy acts to live musical performances, is to become the Neon Room, with all further amenities also set to be rejuvenated and renamed.

Chris Kelley, president and chief operating officer of MGM Northfield Park, a role he was confirmed as taking last month, explained: “MGM Resorts is proud to work alongside the 950 dedicated employees during this transition. MGM Northfield Park is situated in a great location within a vibrant community and offers wonderful amenities, from dining and entertainment venues to gaming, harness racing and retail options.

“Through the dedication and hard work of this team, the Rocksino and harness track have established themselves as market leaders, and we are excited to begin this new journey together.”

Adding: “It has been an absolute pleasure working with the Hard Rock team during this transition. They have created a successful and special destination with a terrific team, and they have our commitment that we will uphold the high standards they have set.”

Additional details on the MGM Northfield Park transformation will be available in the coming weeks, with the transaction also subject to customary closing conditions.