Hard Rock Hotels Hard Rock Hotels Blog RSS FeedThe 10 most recently published postsThu, 20 Apr 2023 00:00:00 -04001598Hard Rock International and Seminole Gaming Release 2023 Corporate Social Responsibility Report‘Fifty Years Forward’ outlines efforts to improve lives, help communities and sustain the earth, infused with the power of musicMon, 27 Feb 2023 00:00:00 -0500HOLLYWOOD, Fla., February 15, 2023/ Hard Rock International and Seminole Gaming today announced the release of its 2023 Corporate Social Responsibility Report: Fifty Years Forward. Social purpose has propelled Hard Rock since its inception in 1971, guided by its founding mottos: Love All-Serve All, All Is One, Save The Planet, and Take Time To Be Kind.

“Our brand mottos have shaped who we are as a brand for the past 50 years while setting the foundation of our future,” said Paul Pellizzari, Vice President of Global Social Responsibility at Hard Rock International. “Today, Hard Rock and Seminole Gaming operate 250+ cafes, hotels and casinos spanning 67 countries and with that comes a responsibility to support local communities all over the world. We honor this commitment by making strides to benchmark, evaluate and plan a brighter future for all.”

This report reflects Hard Rock and Seminole Gaming’s progress towards the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which call for action to promote prosperity while protecting the planet. They recognize that ending poverty must go hand-in-hand with strategies that build economic growth and address a range of social needs, while tackling climate change and environmental protection.

Hard Rock and Seminole Gaming have established a multi-pronged approach to continue investing in five crucial areas:

Community Impact & Corporate Giving

Hard Rock and Seminole Gaming have invested locally, nationally and globally across causes that matter most to the communities they operate in. Priorities, such as hunger relief, cancer prevention, diversity equity & inclusion, human trafficking prevention, children’s hospice care, socioeconomic conditions and inspiring people’s connection to music, are championed in a multitude of ways:

  • The annual PINKTOBER campaign has raised more than $11 million dollars for breast cancer awareness and education to date from its inception in 2000.
  • In partnership with WhyHunger, Hard Rock has raised $6.8 million to date to combat global hunger and poverty and has provided 9.8 million meals to 120,600 children and their families in 31 countries.
  • Team members across Seminole Gaming casinos, as well as Hard Rock casinos, hotels, and cafe locations have raised $9 million to support local community needs.
  • As part of its philanthropic arm, Hard Rock Heals contributed more than $1.8 million to support music-based programs and partnerships around the world.

Team Members, Culture & DEI

  • Hard Rock and Seminole Gaming continue a tradition of inclusion by building upon equitable policies, programs and practices aimed at maintaining and attracting diverse talent, cultivating a culture of inclusion, and setting a standard for equitable and responsible practices within the industry.
  • The Seminole & Hard Rock Women in Leadership program has been working to increase women’s representation within leadership roles, currently exceeding the industry standard of 22%.
  • Seminole Tribal Members are invited to participate in a Tribal Career Development Program designed to build business skills, develop leadership capabilities and give Tribal Members access to senior leaders.
  • Team Member Resource Groups, spanning 11 different identifiers such as caregivers, people with disabilities and LGBTQ+, as well as cultural identifiers, foster a sense of belonging and inclusion that can spark innovation and accelerate employee development.
  • Hard Rock was recognized by Forbes as an employer of choice in the following categories for 2022: World’s Best Employers, The Best Employers for New Grads, The Best Employers for Women, The Best Employers for Diversity, America’s Best Large Employers, America’s Best-in-State Employers and Mexico’s Best Employers.

Social Safeguards & Responsible Gambling

Hard Rock and Seminole Gaming are committed to supporting at-risk team members and valued community members by addressing issues that are prevalent within the industry.

  • Hard Rock’s proprietary responsible gaming program, PlayersEdge, educates players on healthy play habits and support resources by training team members to refer at-risk players to professional help. To date, 18,234 team members were trained on PlayersEdge online, with 92% reporting an improved knowledge or skill.
  • One measurable outcome of the introduction of PlayersEdge to casinos: a 10% increase in calls to the Florida problem gambling helpline.
  • The Hard Rock Social Identity Quest education program was adopted and taught by 60,000 teachers in 45 U.S. States, reaching 1.2 million high school students, 8% of the student population.
  • A formal evaluation revealed a 13% increase in learning objectives, demonstrating positive outcomes for online safety literacy.
  • To prevent and raise awareness of human trafficking, Hard Rock International signed the ECPAT Tourism Child-Protection Code of Conduct, the world’s first and only voluntary set of business principles to prevent sexual exploitation and trafficking of children. Hard Rock also launched Social Identity Quest (SIQ), an educational program to help prevent the risk of teenagers being lured online.

Economic Development

Hard Rock and Seminole Gaming empower and promote the social, economic and political inclusion of disadvantaged and indigenous-owned businesses.

  • Since 2011, nearly 30% on average of Seminole Gaming’s annual purchases have come from Tribal-owned or affiliated vendors.
  • On a global scale, more than 15,000 jobs have been created in communities hosting new hotels, casinos and casino-hotels around the world since 2018.
  • We support local Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE), spending $26 million in annual purchases from Minority Business Enterprise, Women Business Enterprise, Veteran Business Enterprise, and Disabled Business Enterprise, and assist further by helping them grow knowledge, expertise, while further developing products and services.

Environmental Sustainability

Hard Rock and Seminole Gaming are growing efforts to sustainably address waste, energy and water by driving operational improvements, engaging non-profit partners and pursuing best practice collaborations with vendors.

  • Eighty-three percent of properties globally have implemented efficiency technologies, such as auto-sensors, reduced flow faucets, two-flow toilets and efficient laundry machines.
  • Hard Rock and Seminole Gaming’s participation in Clean the World’s Hospitality Recycling program diverted 13,660 pounds of plastic waste and distributed approximately 66,370 bars/soap and 10,339 pounds of leftover soap through Hygiene Kits used in shelters, food pantries and disaster recovery organizations in the United States to date.
  • As part of an ongoing partnership with World Wildlife Fund (WWF) and annual participation in Earth Hour, Hard Rock and Seminole Gaming properties “go dark” by switching off lights to build awareness for climate change action each year. To date, 114 properties have participated and 603,00+KW has been saved.

Click here for the full report. For more information on social responsibility goals for Hard Rock International and Seminole Gaming, please visit: https://www.hardrock.com/living-our-mottos.aspx

 

About Hard Rock®:

Hard Rock International (HRI) is one of the most globally recognized companies with venues in over 70 countries spanning 265 locations that include owned/licensed or managed Rock Shops®, Live Performance Venues and Cafes. HRI also launched a joint venture named Hard Rock Digital in 2020, an online sportsbook, retail sportsbook and internet gaming platform. Beginning with an Eric Clapton guitar, Hard Rock owns the world’s largest and most valuable collection of authentic music memorabilia at more than 86,000 pieces, which are displayed at its locations around the globe. In 2022, Hard Rock Hotels was honored as the number one brand in Outstanding Guest Satisfaction for the second year in a row among Upper Upscale Hotels in J.D. Power’s North America Hotel Guest Satisfaction Study. This designation is the fourth consecutive year the iconic brand has been among top brands in this category. HRI is the first privately-owned gaming company designated U.S. Best Managed Company by Deloitte Private and The Wall Street Journal for the second year. Hard Rock was also honored by Forbes among the World’s Best Employers, as well as Best Employers for Women, Diversity and New Grads and a Top Large Employer in the Travel & Leisure, Gaming, and Entertainment Industry. In the 2022 Global Gaming Awards, Hard Rock was named Land-Based Operator of the Year for the second time in four years. In 2021, Hard Rock Hotels & Casinos received first place ranking in the Casino Gaming Executive Satisfaction Survey conducted by Bristol Associates Inc. and Spectrum Gaming Group for six of the last seven years. Hard Rock International currently holds investment grades from primary investment rating agencies: S&P Global Ratings (BBB) and Fitch Ratings (BBB). For more information on Hard Rock International, visit www.hardrock.com or shop.hardrock.com.

 

About Seminole Gaming:

Seminole Gaming manages six Florida casinos for the Seminole Tribe of Florida, including the Seminole Hard Rock Hotels & Casinos in Tampa and Hollywood, Fla. Seminole Gaming has long been recognized for its industry innovations and success. It was the first Indian Tribe in North America to open a high-stakes bingo hall and casino, which debuted in 1979 and became the forerunner of the Indian Gaming movement. Seminole Gaming is currently the only gaming company to have an investment grade rating from all three primary investment rating agencies: S&P Global Ratings (BBB), Moody’s (Baa2) and Fitch Ratings (BBB).

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1592Hard Rock International Earns Acclaimed Placement in Forbes as One of America’s Best Large Employers in 2023The Iconic Hospitality and Restaurant Brand Recognized for Seventh Time Since 2015Mon, 20 Feb 2023 00:00:00 -0500HOLLYWOOD, Fla., Feb. 16, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — Hard Rock International has been recognized by Forbes as one of America’s Best Large Employers for 2023, earning a ranking among other exemplary companies in the travel & leisure industry – which encompasses hotels, resorts, restaurants, and entertainment enterprises. This is the seventh time the brand has been recognized with this honor since 2015 and has placed in the travel & leisure category, making Hard Rock International the top global casino entertainment company listed within the industry.

The 2023 list of America’s Best Large Employers highlights companies that continue to prioritize making their workplace a secure and thriving environment for their employees. This esteemed placement comes off the heels of Hard Rock International’s $100 million investment to substantially raise the salary of their U.S. workforce, with the wage increase greatly impacting 95 job classifications.

In partnership with market research firm, Statista, Forbes compiled the 2023 list by surveying approximately 45,000 American employees working for companies that employ more than 1,000 workers in the United States. Participants in this survey were asked questions on a variety of work-related topics such as work conditions, salary, the potential for professional growth, and their views on company image regarding their current employer. The evaluation was based on direct and indirect recommendations from respondents who were asked to rate their willingness to recommend their own employer to friends and family. The final list ranks the 500 large and 500 mid-size employers that received the most recommendations.

“As a global company, we deeply value the contributions made by our team members in the United States and around the world. Our recent $100 million investment into the wages and salaries of our U.S. workforce is part of our ongoing efforts to honor and appreciate our team members,” said David Carroll, SVP of Human Resources at Hard Rock International. “We are honored by this recognition and will never stop working on making Hard Rock a great place to work for all.”

To learn more about Hard Rock International, visit www.hardrock.com.

For more information or to view the full list of America’s Best Large Employers of 2023 from Forbes, please visit: www.forbes.com/lists/best-large-employers.

About Hard Rock®:
Hard Rock International (HRI) is one of the most globally recognized companies with venues in over 70 countries spanning 265 locations that include owned/licensed or managed Rock Shops®, Live Performance Venues and Cafes. HRI also launched a joint venture named Hard Rock Digital in 2020, an online sportsbook, retail sportsbook and internet gaming platform. Beginning with an Eric Clapton guitar, Hard Rock owns the world’s largest and most valuable collection of authentic music memorabilia at more than 86,000 pieces, which are displayed at its locations around the globe. In 2022, Hard Rock Hotels was honored as the number one brand in Outstanding Guest Satisfaction for the second year in a row among Upper Upscale Hotels in J.D. Power’s North America Hotel Guest Satisfaction Study. This designation is the fourth consecutive year the iconic brand has been among top brands in this category. HRI is the first privately-owned gaming company designated U.S. Best Managed Company by Deloitte Private and The Wall Street Journal for the second year. Hard Rock was also honored by Forbes among the World’s Best Employers, as well as Best Employers for Women, Diversity and New Grads and a Top Large Employer in the Travel & Leisure, Gaming, and Entertainment Industry. In the 2022 Global Gaming Awards, Hard Rock was named Land-Based Operator of the Year for the second time in four years. In 2021, Hard Rock Hotels & Casinos received first place ranking in the Casino Gaming Executive Satisfaction Survey conducted by Bristol Associates Inc. and Spectrum Gaming Group for six of the last seven years. Hard Rock International currently holds investment grades from primary investment rating agencies: S&P Global Ratings (BBB) and Fitch Ratings (BBB). For more information on Hard Rock International, visit www.hardrock.com or shop.hardrock.com.

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1583Hard Rock International Continues Fight Against Human TraffickingHard Rock International is marking National Human Trafficking Awareness Day, tomorrow January 11, by expanding action to strengthen the industry's role in combatting and preventing human trafficking.Wed, 01 Feb 2023 00:00:00 -0500HOLLYWOOD, Fla., Jan. 10, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Hard Rock International is marking National Human Trafficking Awareness Day, tomorrow January 11, by expanding action to strengthen the industry's role in combatting and preventing human trafficking. Human trafficking, which includes commercial sexual exploitation and forced labor, is a complex challenge for the entire global hospitality industry because it intersects a range of organized criminal activities. 

For several years, Hard Rock has implemented comprehensive protocols to increase awareness of and prevent human trafficking, including training over 27,000 hotel and casino team members globally and collaborating with community partners and advocacy groups. In May 2022, the company signed the ECPAT Tourism Child-Protection Code of Conduct, the world's first and only voluntary set of business principles travel and tourism companies can implement to prevent sexual exploitation and trafficking of children.

"Hard Rock is committed to working with our community partners across the country and the world to innovate solutions that help prevent human trafficking," said Jim Allen, Chairman of Hard Rock International.

This January, Hard Rock is expanding and innovating its direct support for victims, survivors, and at-risk youth, through partnership programs.

Youth Employment Program with Covenant House New York

To help vulnerable youth avoid risks or escape a life of trafficking, Hard Rock is providing access to careers in hospitality. Through a partnership with Covenant House New York, the largest provider of runaway and homeless youth services in New York City, the program aims to enable youth to overcome systemic barriers, achieve sustainable independence, and break free from cycles of poverty and homelessness.

These hurdles can be particularly difficult for people of color, those within the LGBTQ+ community, or who come from backgrounds of poverty and abuse.

"Vulnerable and exploited youth need stable employment to transition their lives from the street to a better future," said Julie Farer, Executive Director of Covenant House New York. "This program seeks to not only offer jobs at Hard Rock, but to help these youth build careers by offering the experience, training and knowledge to build long-term futures in the global hospitality industry."

Participants will receive employment with Hard Rock Cafe Times Square and Hard Rock Hotel New York. After completing a 90-day transition period, they can work to forge opportunities across a range of roles, to learn and grow as hospitality professionals.

First Hospitality Company to Implement Twentyfour-Seven QR Code

Hard Rock is improving how the hospitality industry provides information and support to those who need it, while also deterring traffickers from targeting its properties. To advance communications, Hard Rock and Seminole Gaming represent the first hospitality company to pilot a QR code on its properties that will provide information on trafficking, and for those who may need it, direct access to immediate help resources.

The Twentyfour-Seven Anti-trafficking QR Code® was created by survivors to help those vulnerable to trafficking, the QR code sticker will be placed in bathrooms, elevator waiting areas, transportation waiting areas, and parking lots.

"Victims who are being trafficked are constantly fed false information by their traffickers," said Tsvetelina Thompson, Managing Director of Twentyfour-Seven. "The Twentyfour-Seven Anti-Trafficking QR code breaks the cycle by providing relevant and accurate information to victims so they may obtain help. Hard Rock is the first company in the hospitality sector to implement this program designed to help victims in bad situations. Using the anti-trafficking QR code will explain what laws and resources are available to victims."

When scanned, the person selects their location, selects prompts for the specific information they want, and can choose actions to take, whether it is calling for immediate help, filing a report, or understanding the law. The pilot will test the QR code stickers at properties in New York City, Hollywood Florida, Cincinnati Ohio, and Madrid Spain.

Expanded Education to Prevent Online Luring with ECPAT-USA

In January 2022, Hard Rock launched the Social Identity Quest, an education program designed to help teens understand risks of being lured online. Content was co-developed with experts at ECPAT-USA and EduNetwork Partners. By June 2022, 1.2 million students completed the curriculum, taught by 60,000 teachers in high schools across 45 states This innovative program increased students' human trafficking awareness and capacity to make informed decisions within social media practices.           

The program is now being adapted to help prevent online exploitation amongst youth in Mexico, and indigenous communities in the USA.

"The Social Identity Quest (SIQ) helps young people examine how they interact and express themselves online," said Lori L. Cohen, CEO of ECPAT-USA. "This creative approach is successful with youth because online games resonate with them.  Rather than allow sexual perpetrators to exploit social media by identifying and contacting young people, the SIQ provides strategies to help kids protect themselves. By adapting this successful program for Mexico and indigenous youth in the USA, we are extending its reach to prevent grooming for sexual exploitation and trafficking."

Local Champion with the Broward Human Trafficking Coalition

In the community of its headquarters, Hard Rock will join the Broward Human Trafficking Coalition (BHTC), community leaders and elected officials on January 21 to raise awareness about the plight and rights of trafficking victims. Hard Rock is the lead sponsor of the BHTC Town Hall and Community event, which takes place at The African American Research Library & Cultural Center.

About Hard Rock®:

 Hard Rock International (HRI) is one of the most globally recognized companies with venues in over 70 countries spanning 265 locations that include owned/licensed or managed Rock Shops®, Live Performance Venues and Cafes. HRI also launched a joint venture named Hard Rock Digital in 2020, an online sportsbook, retail sportsbook and internet gaming platform. Beginning with an Eric Clapton guitar, Hard Rock owns the world's largest and most valuable collection of authentic music memorabilia at more than 86,000 pieces, which are displayed at its locations around the globe. In 2022, Hard Rock Hotels was honored as the number one brand in Outstanding Guest Satisfaction for the second year in a row among Upper Upscale Hotels in J.D. Power's North America Hotel Guest Satisfaction Study. This designation is the fourth consecutive year the iconic brand has been among top brands in this category. HRI is the first privately-owned gaming company designated U.S. Best Managed Company by Deloitte Private and The Wall Street Journal for the second year. Hard Rock was also honored by Forbes among the World's Best Employers, as well as Best Employers for Women, Diversity and New Grads and a Top Large Employer in the Travel & Leisure, Gaming, and Entertainment Industry. In the 2022 Global Gaming Awards, Hard Rock was named Land-Based Operator of the Year for the second time in four years. In 2021, Hard Rock Hotels & Casinos received first place ranking in the Casino Gaming Executive Satisfaction Survey conducted by Bristol Associates Inc. and Spectrum Gaming Group for six of the last seven years. Hard Rock International currently holds investment grades from primary investment rating agencies: S&P Global Ratings (BBB) and Fitch Ratings (BBB). For more information on Hard Rock International, visit www.hardrock.com or shop.hardrock.com. 

ABOUT ECPAT-USA:

ECPAT-USA is the leading anti-child trafficking organization in the United States seeking to end the commercial sexual exploitation of children through awareness, advocacy, policy, and legislation. ECPAT-USA is a member of ECPAT International, a network of organizations in 104 countries with one common mission: to eliminate the sexual exploitation and trafficking of children around the world. For more information, visit www.ecpatusa.org.

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1570Hard Rock® Completes Acquisition of The Mirage Hotel & Casino®Hard Rock International (HRI) on Friday received regulatory approval from the Nevada Gaming Commission for its acquisition of The Mirage Hotel & Casino from MGM Resorts International.Mon, 16 Jan 2023 00:00:00 -0500LAS VEGAS, NEV. – Hard Rock International (HRI) on Friday received regulatory approval from the Nevada Gaming Commission for its acquisition of The Mirage Hotel & Casino from MGM Resorts International. HRI assumed operations control of the property as of 6 a.m. Monday, December 19. Under terms of the transaction, HRI paid $1.075 billion in cash for the operating assets of The Mirage Hotel & Casino. HRI entered into a long-term lease agreement with VICI Properties Inc. for the real estate property of The Mirage.

The 3,044-room casino resort will continue to operate as The Mirage Hotel & Casino until the renovation and rebranding of the property to the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Las Vegas is complete. The process is anticipated to take an extended period, but ultimately will dramatically reimagine every aspect of the resort and change the Las Vegas skyline with the addition of a Guitar-shaped hotel tower adjacent to Las Vegas Blvd.

“Today, we’d like to officially welcome the 3,500 team members at The Mirage to the 45,000 global Hard Rock family and express our gratitude to the Nevada Gaming Control Board and the Nevada Gaming Commission for approving the gaming license for us to operate The Mirage Hotel & Casino,” said Jim Allen, Chairman, Hard Rock International. “We are excited to create an integrated resort on The Strip that will make this legendary entertainment community proud.”

Daily operations of the famed Las Vegas resort are set to continue under The Mirage brand for the foreseeable future, and all room reservations and group bookings will be honored with no action required by guests or group organizers. The Mirage will continue to offer world-class entertainment and dining options including, Cirque Du Soleil’s The Beatles™ LOVE™ through 2023. There are no plans to close The Mirage or to lay off any of the team members as one media outlet incorrectly reported recently.

Casino players and guests will now enjoy Unity™ by Hard Rock, a global loyalty program unlike any other that will enable patrons to earn and redeem rewards at participating Hard Rock Hotels, Cafes, and Casinos around the globe.

Prior to 2020, Hard Rock International had no previous operational involvement with the former Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas at the off-strip location. HRI purchased the licensing and naming rights for Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Las Vegas in May 2020 and vowed to bring the iconic brand to the Las Vegas Strip when the right opportunity presented itself.

Hard Rock expects to release details of the rebranded and reimagined resort, its new features and attractions, and development timeline at the end of 2023. Barclays served as exclusive financial advisor to Hard Rock International in connection with the transaction, and Jones Day served as legal advisor to Hard Rock International together with Fox Rothschild LLP and McDonald Carano LLP as special gaming counsel.

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About The Mirage®:
The Mirage’s iconic history began as the Strip’s first megaresort and continues to offer guests an exotic world-class destination unlike any other. The resort features contemporary accommodations; dynamic entertainment including The Beatles LOVE by Cirque du Soleil, Shin Lim: LIMITLESS and the Aces of Comedy series; tantalizing restaurants created by the world’s most renowned chefs including Tom Colicchio, and a luxurious spa and salon. As of December 19, 2022, The Mirage Hotel & Casino is owned and operated by Hard Rock International (HRI) as it transitions into an era with refreshed energy. Mirage guests and visitors can earn and use points on Hard Rock’s global platform, Unity™, at more than 150 participating Hard Rock Cafes, Hotels and Casinos anywhere in the world. For more information and reservations, visit mirage.com, call toll free at (800) 374-9000, or find us on InstagramFacebook and Twitter.

About Hard Rock®:
Hard Rock International (HRI) is one of the most globally recognized companies with venues in over 70 countries spanning 265 locations that include owned/licensed or managed Hotels, Casinos, Rock Shops®, Live Performance Venues and Cafes. HRI also launched a joint venture named Hard Rock Digital in 2020, an online sportsbook, retail sportsbook and internet gaming platform. Beginning with an Eric Clapton guitar, Hard Rock owns the world’s largest and most valuable collection of authentic music memorabilia at more than 86,000 pieces, which are displayed at its locations around the globe. In 2022, Hard Rock was once again named Land Based Operator of the Year at the Global Gaming Awards, a designation the company has received three times in five years. Hard Rock Hotels was honored as the number one brand in Outstanding Guest Satisfaction for the second year in a row among Upper Upscale Hotels in J.D. Power’s North America Hotel Guest Satisfaction Study. This designation is the fourth consecutive year the iconic brand has been among top brands in this category. HRI is the first privately-owned gaming company designated U.S. Best Managed Company by Deloitte Private and The Wall Street Journal for the second year. Hard Rock was also honored as one of Forbes’ Best Employers for Women, Diversity and New Grads and a Top Large Employer in the Travel & Leisure, Gaming, and Entertainment Industry. In 2021, Hard Rock Hotels & Casinos received first place ranking in the Casino Gaming Executive Satisfaction Survey conducted by Bristol Associates Inc. and Spectrum Gaming Group for six of the last seven years. Hard Rock International currently holds investment grade ratings from primary investment rating agencies: S&P Global Ratings (BBB) and Fitch Ratings (BBB). For more information on Hard Rock International, visit www.hardrock.com or shop.hardrock.com.

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1505Hard Rock International and Seminole Gaming Surprise U.S. Workforce with Substantial Wage Increases NationwideHalf of U.S workforce affected as part of a $100 million company investmentMon, 19 Sep 2022 00:00:00 -0400HOLLYWOOD, Fla., Sept. 12, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Hard Rock International and Seminole Gaming today announced wage increases for half its U.S. workforce. The increases apply to U.S. team members and new hires at company managed Hotel, Casino and Cafe locations nationwide.

95 job classifications, including cooks, housekeepers, security, public space, call center and many more are among the greatest impacted. In some cases, starting wages are increasing by over 60 percent.  The new starting wages range between $18 and $21 an hour, with minimal exceptions – more than 2.5 times the Federal minimum wage and exceeding each U.S. state minimum wage. 

An entry-level team member in Florida, for instance, will receive between $8 and $11 per hour above the state's current $10 per hour minimum wage. The hourly rate increase for full time team members equates to more than $16,000 per year above the state's minimum wage, a potentially life-changing pay increase for thousands of entry-level team members.

This recent $100 million investment in its team members is part of an ongoing effort to honor and appreciate its workforce, which has recently included paying frontline employees bonuses during the pandemic and other expanded benefits. It puts Hard Rock International and Seminole Gaming at the forefront of the gaming and hospitality industries, among those companies offering the most competitive wages.

"My career has encompassed over four decades and I have never been involved in such a historic event. The support the Seminole Tribe of Florida has given me to enhance the standard of living for so many people is a dream come true. We have changed people's lives and I'm proud to be a part of it," said Jim Allen, Chairman of Hard Rock International, CEO of Seminole Gaming.

For the last several years, Forbes has recognized Hard Rock as one of the Top Employers for Women, For New Graduates, For Diversity and as America's Best Large Employer in the Entertainment and Hospitality Industry. Additionally, Seminole Hard Rock and Hard Rock Online Casino was awarded Employer of Choice in the 2022 Casino Gaming Executive Satisfaction Survey. Hard Rock International and Seminole Gaming continually invest in programs that empower and support team members' professional career growth by offering unique benefits like tuition reimbursement and mentorship for women.

There are currently over 1,600 Hard Rock International and Seminole Gaming jobs open at the new higher starting wage rates. Anyone interested in joining a team that values its members, at one of the most globally recognized companies, please visit https://www.hardrock.com/careers.aspx and https://www.gotoworkhappy.com/.

About Seminole Gaming:

Seminole Gaming manages six Florida casinos for the Seminole Tribe of Florida, including the Seminole Hard Rock Hotels & Casinos in Tampa and Hollywood, Fla. Seminole Gaming has long been recognized for its industry innovations and success. It was the first Indian Tribe in North America to open a high-stakes bingo hall and casino, which debuted in 1979 and became the forerunner of the Indian Gaming movement. Seminole Gaming is currently the only gaming company to have an investment grade rating from all three primary investment rating agencies: S&P Global Ratings (BBB), Moody's (Baa2) and Fitch Ratings (BBB).

About Hard Rock®:
Hard Rock International (HRI) is one of the most globally recognized companies with venues in over 70 countries spanning 265 locations that include owned/licensed or managed Rock Shops®, Live Performance Venues and Cafes. HRI also launched a joint venture named Hard Rock Digital in 2020, an online sportsbook, retail sportsbook and internet gaming platform. Beginning with an Eric Clapton guitar, Hard Rock owns the world's largest and most valuable collection of authentic music memorabilia at more than 86,000 pieces, which are displayed at its locations around the globe. In 2022, Hard Rock Hotels was honored as the number one brand in Outstanding Guest Satisfaction for the second year in a row among Upper Upscale Hotels in J.D. Power's North America Hotel Guest Satisfaction Study. This designation is the fourth consecutive year the iconic brand has been among top brands in this category. HRI is the first privately-owned gaming company designated U.S. Best Managed Company by Deloitte Private and The Wall Street Journal for the second year. Hard Rock was also honored as one of Forbes' Best Employers for Women, Diversity and New Grads and a Top Large Employer in the Travel & Leisure, Gaming, and Entertainment Industry. In 2021, Hard Rock Hotels & Casinos received first place ranking in the Casino Gaming Executive Satisfaction Survey conducted by Bristol Associates Inc. and Spectrum Gaming Group for six of the last seven years. Hard Rock International currently holds investment grades from primary investment rating agencies: S&P Global Ratings (BBB) and Fitch Ratings (BBB). For more information on Hard Rock International, visit www.hardrock.com or shop.hardrock.com.

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1483Hard Rock International Named One of America's Best Employers for Women for Fifth Consecutive Year, According to Forbes®For the fifth consecutive year, Hard Rock® is honored for empowering women and creating a diverse working environment on the prestigious annual listMon, 01 Aug 2022 00:00:00 -0400HOLLYWOOD, Fla., July 28, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Hard Rock International is once again recognized by Forbes' list of America's Best Employers for Women within the Travel & Leisure category for the fifth year in a row. Forbes partnered with world-leading market research company Statista to compile the annual list which surveyed 60,000 Americans working for businesses with at least 1,000 employees and pinpointed the companies they identified as most dedicated to diversity, equity and inclusion.

"It is with great pride that Hard Rock continues to be recognized among the top companies actively making strides in diversity, equity & inclusion and be featured as a best employer for women," said Tracy Bradford, President of Seminole Hard Rock Support Services and Co-founder of Seminole & Hard Rock Women in Leadership internal mentoring program. "At Hard Rock, our mottos: All Is One and Love All, Serve All inspire us to champion our unique differences and celebrate our employees at all levels of the business with effective policies, programs and practices."

Hard Rock implemented a Women in Leadership program in 2016 that provides mentorship between junior and senior executives and provides tools for empowerment and knowledge in their career. Since its inception, over 1,000 female team members have participated in the mentorship program and/or a brand-hosted educational conference. Hard Rock has significantly grown its female leadership year over year, even amid the pandemic. Female representation in leadership positions have continued to grow, represented by a more than 26 percent increase for vice president positions and above and a 31 percent rise for managers and directors.

In the last year alone, female representation at the executive committee level has doubled, and the majority of these appointments are women of color. In January 2022, new workforce demographic dashboards also began allowing the company to track and report diversity progress as well as employee engagement.

In addition to its corporate headquarters, Hard Rock employs more than 45,000 team members among its corporate-owned cafe, hotel and casino locations globally. Hard Rock International works to improve lives, help communities and sustain the earth, infusing the power of music into all they do in over 70 countries around the world.

To view Forbes' full 2022 list of America's Best Employers for Women, please visit www.forbes.com/best-employers-women. Additional information on Hard Rock International and its mottos can be found by visiting www.hardrock.com.

 

About Hard Rock ® :

Hard Rock International (HRI) is one of the most globally recognized companies with venues in over 70 countries spanning 265 locations that include owned/licensed or managed Rock Shops®, Live Performance Venues and Cafes. HRI also launched a joint venture named Hard Rock Digital in 2020, an online sportsbook, retail sportsbook and internet gaming platform. Beginning with an Eric Clapton guitar, Hard Rock owns the world's largest and most valuable collection of authentic music memorabilia at more than 86,000 pieces, which are displayed at its locations around the globe. In 2022, Hard Rock was ranked the top performing hotel brand in J.D. Power's North America Hotel Guest Satisfaction Study for the fourth consecutive year and the first privately-owned gaming company designated U.S. Best Managed Company by Deloitte Private and The Wall Street Journal for the second year. Hard Rock was also honored as one of Forbes' Best Employers for Women, Diversity and New Grads and a Top Large Employer in the Travel & Leisure, Gaming, and Entertainment Industry. In 2021, Hard Rock Hotels & Casinos received first place ranking in the Casino Gaming Executive Satisfaction Survey conducted by Bristol Associates Inc. and Spectrum Gaming Group for six of the last seven years. For more information on Hard Rock International, visit www.hardrock.com or shop.hardrock.com.

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1474Hard Rock Hotel Marbella to Officially Open Doors on 14 JulyMarbella's Latest Property is Set to Electrify Costa Del SolThu, 14 Jul 2022 00:00:00 -0400LONDON, July 14, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- 14th July will mark the opening of Marbella's hotly anticipated new property, Hard Rock Hotel Marbella, after a full renovation. The adults-only property will offer unique experiences through its state-of-the-art facilities and services, while reflecting the immersive music environment for which Hard Rock Hotels are known.The new property, acquired in June 2021 by Stoneweg and Bain Capital Credit, the real estate investment firm, and managed by Palladium Hotel Group, has been designed by international designers Studio Gronda. It will be Palladium Hotel Group's third Hard Rock Hotel operated and also the group's third hotel located in the Costa Del Sol.

Jesús Sobrino, CEO of Palladium Hotel Group said, "We are delighted to announce the launch of Hard Rock Hotel Marbella in Puerto Banús, one of the most stunning parts of the Costa del Sol. Puerto Banús is a perfect destination for the Hard Rock Hotels brand and its magnificent offering. Its inimitable style, it's gastronomic and leisure offering and its eagerness to impress guests will make this hotel a reference point for the area. We are convinced that Hard Rock Hotel Marbella is going to become a really key destination for visitors and residents in a very short time."

The hotel is located in the gorgeous Puerto Banús and contains a total of 383 rooms, including 64 suites. Showcasing contemporary interior designs seamlessly blending Hard Rock's signature musically infused aesthetic with local cultural references from Picasso to Flamenco. Guests can look forward to unique experiences at the Hard Rock Hotel Marbella, with impressive culinary options, an incredible VIP rooftop infinity pool and bar, swimming pool surrounded by a lush and oasis-like garden, musical events and, of course, a curated collection of music Memorabilia featuring Spanish musical icons, as well as international music legends. Notable pieces including an acoustic guitar from the legendary Elvis Presley, a satin purple jacket worn by Prince and sequined dresses worn by Lady Gaga.

'We are proud to build on our success with numerous recent openings in Europe," said Graham Kiy, Area Vice President of Hotel Operations EMEA at Hard Rock International. "Hard Rock's partnership with Palladium Hotel Group has been a great success in Ibiza and Tenerife we are thrilled to expand to Marbella where we will integrate into the brand into the fabric of this much loved and vibrant destination"

 

AN INNOVATIVE DESIGN AND LOCATION

The jewel of Marbella has a new star that will provide all its distinctive rhythm and sophistication. One of the most important tourist centers of Andalusia has now become Hard Rock Hotel's new stage. Idyllically situated just steps away from the sea, the property will be the go-to destination for those looking to combine attentive and contemporary service alongside the aqua blue waters of the Mediterranean.

Designed by international architecture and interior design firm, Studio Gronda the hotel effortlessly blends Hard Rock's signature design with elements that recall Andalusian style and culture. Local ceramics, reds and the iconic flamenco polka dots are cleverly used to blend tradition with contemporary design. The bright and airy interiors are enhanced by vibrant artwork that was carefully curated to compliment the Memorabilia collection displayed throughout the hotel.

The hotel is located in Puerto Banús, the epicenter of exclusivity and glamour in Marbella – one of the most exclusive regions of Spain. Just 40 minutes from Malaga Airport, the property is easily accessible to all those looking for a sophisticated retreat.

 

A CULINARY SCENE FOR THE MOST DISCERNING TASTEBUDS

Hard Rock Hotel Marbella presents an unparalleled culinary scene that will satisfy even the most discerning palates. Two restaurants will offer an impressive selection of culinary delights from around the world, including the finest Asian food at Nu Downtown. Alongside world-class food, diners will also enjoy live music performances and DJ's during their meal – as well as an electrifying after party after dessert. With a refreshed programme every week, the venue is set to be the trendiest place in town to grab a bite.

There is also the Spanish show-cooking restaurant, Sessions. Ready to delight and tantalize, this restaurant offers guests unique Spanish flavours and seasonal products in an immersive dining space. The impressive breakfast display offers impeccably prepared dishes, using the freshest produce suited to every taste. 

For some of the best views from the hotel, the sky lounge bar Sun Society is a must. The stunning space also features an incredible VIP infinity rooftop pool with a pool bar for guests to truly enjoy the Spanish sunshine. Offering a carefully curated cocktail selection as well as Mexican and Japanese fusion snacks, guests will be able to indulge in panoramic views of the beautiful area alongside eclectic flavors. The gorgeous setting is sure to be one of the most in demand spots in Marbella.

Throughout the day, guests can also stop by the Eden Pool Club, snack bar where to enjoy a selection of the best cocktails and delight the palate with salads, burgers, and succulent desserts, or the delicious sushi food truck offering. During the afternoon, the GMT +1 Lobby Bar for specialty coffees, craft cocktails and light bites, perfect for when hopping between activities.

 

UNIQUE AND IMMSERSIVE BRAND EXPERIENCES

In true Hard Rock style, a variety of signature brand experiences and amenities exclusive to Hard Rock Hotels can be found in Marbella. Amenities include the Sound of Your Stay® which allows guests to listen to Tracks® curated playlists inspired by the city they're in, Crosley record players available upon request with Wax®, or play a Fender guitar with Picks® in the privacy of their room. The Unleashed® pet program will welcome four legged friends to enjoy the same memorable experience as their pet parents. Guests are invited to exchange the traditional city map for Soundtracks® interactive area guides which are curated by Hard Rock and musical artists to showcase the best of each destination.

Known for sparkling events and incredible live concerts and performances, those visiting the Hard Rock Hotel Marbella can prepare for a similar program of star-studded line-ups and shows.

Guests can find tranquility by enjoying the Rock Om® amenity and experience the perfect blend of yoga and music to relax the body and mind. Those interested in fitness can make use of the modern BODY ROCK® Fitness Centre where the hotel offers innovative training systems to keep up with cutting-edge workouts while matching the rhythm of a curated playlist every step of the way.

Hard Rock Hotel Marbella's introductory nightly rates start from 299 €. For more information and reservations, please visit www.hardrockhotels.com/marbella

About Hard Rock®:
About Hard Rock®: Hard Rock International (HRI) is one of the most globally recognized companies with venues in 68 countries spanning 253 locations that include owned/licensed or managed Hotels, Casinos, Rock Shops®, Live Performance Venues and Cafes. HRI also launched a joint venture named Hard Rock Digital in 2020, an online sportsbook, retail sportsbook and internet gaming platform. Beginning with an Eric Clapton guitar, Hard Rock owns the world's largest and most valuable collection of authentic music memorabilia at more than 86,000 pieces, which are displayed at its locations around the globe. In 2021, Hard Rock was honoured as one of Forbes Magazine's Best Employers for Diversity, a Top Employer for Women and the Top Employer in the Travel & Leisure, Gaming, and Entertainment Industry. Hard Rock was also designated as a U.S. Best Managed Company by Deloitte Private and The Wall Street Journal and named the top performing hotel brand in J.D. Power's North America Hotel Guest Satisfaction Study for the fourth consecutive year in 2022. The brand is owned by HRI parent entity The Seminole Tribe of Florida. For more information on Hard Rock International, visit www.hardrock.com or shop.hardrock.com.

About Palladium Hotel Group:
Palladium Hotel Group is a Spanish hotel chain with over 50 years of experience, owned by Grupo Empresas Matutes (GEM). The group operates 41 hotels and over 13,000 rooms, distributed amongst six countries: Spain, Mexico, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Italy, and Brazil, and manages nine brands: TRS Hotels, Grand Palladium Hotels & Resorts, Palladium Hotels, Palladium Boutique Hotels, Fiesta Hotels & Resorts, Ushuaïa Unexpected Hotels, Only YOU Hotels, BLESS Collection Hotels and the Hard Rock Hotels Brand under licence with three hotels in Ibiza, Tenerife and Marbella. Palladium Hotel Group is characterised by its philosophy of attention to its team and to offering its clients high quality products and services. www.palladiumhotelgroup.com.

About Bain Capital Credit
Bain Capital Credit (www.baincapitalcredit.com) is a leading global credit specialist with approximately $52 billion in assets under management. Bain Capital Credit invests across a full spectrum of strategies, including leveraged loans, high-yield bonds, distressed debt and special situations, private lending, structured products, non-performing loans, special situations real estate and majority and minority equity stakes. Founded in 1998 as a private, employee-owned firm, Bain Capital Credit's experienced team of over 150 investment professionals seeks to identify attractive equity and credit investment opportunities across North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific. In addition to credit, Bain Capital invests across asset classes including private equity, public equity, real estate and venture capital, and leverages the firm's shared platform to capture opportunities in strategic areas of focus.

About Stoneweg
Stoneweg (www.stoneweg.com) is a real estate investment adviser and asset manager established in 2015 and headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland. The firm leverages in-house local operational teams to source, develop and manage real estate investments.

To date, Stoneweg has executed and advised on almost €5 billion of real estate investments across different sectors including developments. Stoneweg expertise includes both equity and debt strategies, advising its client base of financial institutions and family offices across a range of structures including club deals, joint ventures, co-investments and funds.

The firm's investment philosophy is driven by a bottom-up approach to project selection, utilising Stoneweg's own teams on the ground and deep networks to seize the best opportunities.

Stoneweg has a dedicated presence in Switzerland, the United States, Spain, Italy, Andorra and Ireland, enabling many of the operational aspects of the firm's investments to be carried out in house and locally.

Stoneweg has completed more than 300 acquisitions alongside best-in-class partners since 2015.

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1473Hard Rock Hotels® Tops the Charts Again as #1 in Guest Satisfaction in the 2022 J.D. Power StudyThis is the fourth year the iconic brand has been honored at the top of the listWed, 13 Jul 2022 00:00:00 -0400HOLLYWOOD, Fla., July 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, the J.D. Power 2022 North America Guest Satisfaction Study announced that for the second year in a row, Hard Rock Hotels has been ranked the number one brand among Upper Upscale Hotels. This is the fourth consecutive year the iconic brand has been honored with Outstanding Guest Satisfaction among Upper Upscale Hotel Chains by leading data and analytics company J.D. Power and the third time the brand ranked as number one*. The study analyzes over 34,000 guest responses to survey questions and ranks over 100 hospitality brands across eight market segments to measure guest satisfaction, advocacy and loyalty.

"It's with the utmost pride that Hard Rock Hotels is recognized yet again for its exceptional guest services and guest satisfaction for the fourth year in a row," said Jon Lucas, Chief Operating Officer at Hard Rock International. "Exceptional team members are the key to great guest service, and we are so grateful to each and every one at Hard Rock who helps provide the one-of-a-kind, authentic experiences our guests have come to love about staying with us. Hard Rock was founded on a set of core values including Love All Serve All and Take Time to be Kind, which has always been important for us to continuously reflect through our hospitality and service."

In 2022, Hard Rock was ranked #1 in five factors including arrival/departure; guest room; food & beverage; hotel facilities; and cost & fees which are each components of the memorable and unique experiences Hard Rock provides for their guests.

Hard Rock Hotel properties continue to create award-winning hospitality for guests by providing adventure, excitement, intrigue and music and entertainment infused experiences. The brand caters to modern travelers who seek a reprieve from traditional, predictable hotel experiences and offers signature brand programs such as the Sound of Your Stay®, a complimentary program designed to create discovery and interaction with music as well as wellness offerings like Rock Om and Body Rock. Each property is also accentuated with a priceless music memorabilia collection that tells stories of musicians far and wide, complimentary to the brand's contemporary designs and well-appointed guest rooms. Additionally, hotels worldwide offer an exceptional array of culinary and beverage offerings, one-of-a-kind wellness and fitness programs, extensive kids and family activities, plus endless entertainment through both live performances and curated content. Furthermore, the brand remains committed to guest health and safety through its SAFE + SOUND program developed in 2020 with global health and sanitization specialists.

Hard Rock continues to meet demands of expanding the Hard Rock experience across the globe and recently opened the upscale Hard Rock Hotel New York in the heart of Music Row in Manhattan. Hard Rock Hotel Marbella, located a few steps away of the renowned Nueva Andalucia Beach, is set to open in mid-July. Looking ahead, Hard Rock also recently announced property expansion in Las Vegas, set to open in 2025, and Athens in 2026.

As Hard Rock concludes its 50-year anniversary, the recognition of the J.D. Power 2022 Study continues to show the brand's commitment to guests and fans around the globe.

For more information on Hard Rock Hotels visit https://www.hardrockhotels.com/.

*Scored highest in 2019, 2021-2022. Ranked second in 2020.

About Hard Rock Hotels & Casinos®
Hard Rock Hotels & Casinos is internationally recognized as a leader in the hospitality industry – offering world-class entertainment, contemporary designs, incomparable service and one-of-a-kind brand amenities, catering to modern travelers who seek a reprieve from traditional, predictable hotel experiences. Driven by integrity, philanthropy and unparalleled guest experiences, the brand adorns 27 distinctive Hotels and 9 Hotels & Casinos in the world's most enviable destinations. Hard Rock Hotels provide amazing live music, dining options that make guests' taste buds sing, head-to-toe wellness services and many more amenities, in addition to offering best in class protocols for health and safety which Hard Rock deems SAFE+ SOUND. For more information on Hard Rock Hotels, visit hardrockhotels.com.

About Hard Rock® 
Hard Rock International (HRI)  is one of the most globally recognized companies with venues in over 70 countries spanning 265 locations that include owned/licensed or managed Rock Shops®, Live Performance Venues and Cafes. HRI also launched a joint venture named Hard Rock Digital in 2020, an online sportsbook, retail sportsbook and internet gaming platform. Beginning with an Eric Clapton guitar, Hard Rock owns the world's largest and most valuable collection of authentic music memorabilia at more than 86,000 pieces, which are displayed at its locations around the globe. In 2022, Hard Rock was honored as one of Forbes Magazine's Best Employers for Diversity and a Top Large Employer in the Travel & Leisure, Gaming, and Entertainment Industry. Hard Rock was also designated as a U.S. Best Managed Company by Deloitte Private and The Wall Street Journal and ranked the top performing hotel brand in J.D. Power's North America Hotel Guest Satisfaction Study for the fourth consecutive year in 2022. In 2021, Hard Rock was named Forbes Magazine's Top Employers for Women for the third consecutive year. The brand is owned by HRI parent entity The Seminole Tribe of Florida. For more information on Hard Rock International, visit www.hardrock.com or shop.hardrock.com.

About J.D. Power J.D. Power is a global leader in consumer insights, advisory services and data and analytics. A pioneer in the use of big data, artificial intelligence (AI) and algorithmic modeling capabilities to understand consumer behavior, J.D. Power has been delivering incisive industry intelligence on customer interactions with brands and products for more than 50 years. The world's leading businesses across major industries rely on J.D. Power to guide their customer-facing strategies.

J.D. Power has offices in North America, Europe and Asia Pacific. To learn more about the company's business offerings, visit JDPower.com/business. The J.D. Power auto shopping tool can be found at JDPower.com.

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1461Hard Rock International Commences Partnership with GEK TERNA Group to Create a Luxury Resort and Casino in the Heart of the Athens RivieraThe renowned brands kicked off the partnership with a special event in Athens, the home of the luxury resort, casino and entertainment venue set to open in 2026Fri, 24 Jun 2022 00:00:00 -0400June 23, 2022/ATHENS, GR - Hard Rock International and GEK TERNA Group held a special event in Athens yesterday signaling the official start of their partnership for the construction and operation of an integrated resort and casino, located in the iconic area of the Athens Riviera, within the context of “The Ellinikon” development. Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Athens, which is set to open in 2026, will be a unique destination in Europe combining a five-star luxury hotel, a world class gaming floor, a premier meeting and convention space, a state-of-the-art entertainment venue, internationally renowned food and beverage, luxurious Rock® Spa and Pool Complex, and a high-end retail promenade.

“We are thrilled to announce the partnership with GEK TERNA Group and further expand Hard Rock’s reach across the globe in the great City of Athens,” said Jim Allen, Hard Rock International Chairman. “This development will bring over 3,000 permanent jobs to the people of Greece and we look forward to bring our unique brand of entertainment and provide an unparalleled experience for guests of all ages.”

“This development will create a premium tourism spot, expected to offer employment to thousands of people, yield significant revenues to the public sector, and add value to Greece’s brand” said George Peristeris, Chairman and CEO of GEK TERNA Group. “Along with Hard Rock we are realizing a private investment of over 1 billion euros, reaffirming our trust in Greece’s prospects and potential.”

The design of the project draws its inspiration from basic Greek elements such as the sea, the arts and ancient mythology, which it combines with the modern requirements of architecture and the inescapable need for harmonious integration of the project in its environment and location. Open spaces, gardens and water features are key elements of the project’s design, with total green open space covering close to 205,000 m2.

The central Tower draws its inspiration from nautical references, incorporating in its design the waves, the sails and the lighthouse. Built on three levels, the Tower has three different orientations corresponding to the reference points located within the imaginary triangle that is formed around the project: the Acropolis, the sea and Mount Hymettus. Its iconic shape will serve as a symbol of the region and reference the importance of the connection between land, sea and sky.

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Athens will be an international destination, offering its visitors an exciting mix of entertainment, food and beverage and accommodations, embracing the Mediterranean climate and providing special outdoor spaces.

The development brings a vibrant casino of just under 15,000 m2, comprising of 200 tables and 2,000 gaming machines. The Tower consists of more than 1,000 guest rooms and suites, totaling almost 3,500 beds overlooking the waterfront or views across Athens to the Parthenon. The project also includes the highest outdoor rooftop terrace in Athens, with a rooftop pool deck that consists of Bars, the Rock® Spa and Body Rock Fitness, celebrating the year-around sunshine and pleasant temperatures with indoor-outdoor connections.

The Hard Rock Live’s theater is designed to entertain audiences of 3,000, while the stage extends to the exterior for outdoor festivals and concerts with an additional 7,500 seats. Inspired by the ancient Greek amphitheater, the outdoor lawn is bringing together culture and entertainment, harmonically bridging the Hard Rock brand with the Greek lifestyle.  

An outdoor village with a variety of retail, high-end local and international restaurants, dinning terraces and bar and lounge spaces encompasses the casino, while the conference and exhibition center which exceed 23,000 m2, provide a large expo hall, ball rooms, meeting areas and support spaces.

The 30-year concession is a partnership between Hard Rock International (51%) and GEK TERNA Group (49%), with the latter being also responsible for the entire construction of the project, which is expected to begin within the first months of 2023 and last close to 3 years, setting the opening of Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Athens in 2026.

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Athens is the newest addition to Hard Rock International’s extensive portfolio with venues in over 70 countries spanning 265 locations that include owned/licensed or managed Hotels, Casinos, Rock Shops®, Live Performance Venues and Cafes.

Visual media available here.

About Hard Rock®:

Hard Rock International (HRI)  is one of the most globally recognized companies with venues in over 70 countries spanning 265 locations that include owned/licensed or managed Rock Shops®, Live Performance Venues and Cafes. HRI also launched a joint venture named Hard Rock Digital in 2020, an online sportsbook, retail sportsbook and internet gaming platform. Beginning with an Eric Clapton guitar, Hard Rock owns the world’s largest and most valuable collection of authentic music memorabilia at more than 86,000 pieces, which are displayed at its locations around the globe. In 2022, Hard Rock was honored as one of Forbes Magazine’s Best Employers for Diversity and a Top Large Employer in the Travel & Leisure, Gaming, and Entertainment Industry. Deloitte Private and The Wall Street Journal also designated Hard Rock as a U.S. Best Managed Company for the second year in a row in 2022. In 2021, Hard Rock was ranked top performing hotel brand in J.D. Power’s North America Hotel Guest Satisfaction Study for the third consecutive year and named Forbes Magazine’s Top Employers for Women. The brand is owned by HRI parent entity The Seminole Tribe of Florida. For more information on Hard Rock International, visit www.hardrock.com or shop.hardrock.com. 

About GEK TERNA Group:
GEK TERNA Group is one of the leading and most extrovert Greek business Groups, with a significant presence abroad. With 3,500 employees worldwide, and total investments of more than €2.3 bn during the recent years, GEK TERNA actively supports the Greek economy, continuing its growth path with the same commitment and creativity. The Group has a leading position in the fields of infrastructure, energy production, supply and trade from thermal sources and RES, concessions, waste management and real estate development & management. GEK TERNA Group has a significant construction backlog, which along with the projects to be signed amounts to 4.9 billion euros, while the total investments implemented by the Group or in which the Group participates, currently exceeding 6.5 billion Euros. GEK TERNA (www.gekterna.com) is listed in the Athens Stock Exchange (FTSE / Athex Large Cap).

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1242Hard Rock Hotel New York Makes Its DebutHard Rock Hotels' Newest Property Unveils Show Stopping Entertainment Venues, Innovative Culinary Concepts, and Immersive Guest ExperiencesMon, 25 Apr 2022 00:00:00 -0400NEW YORK, April 25, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Hard Rock International today announced the opening of the much-anticipated Hard Rock Hotel New York. Uniquely situated in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, steps from iconic landmarks including Radio City Music Hall, Rockefeller Center and the Theater District, Hard Rock Hotel New York offers a backstage pass to the city's historic Music Row, honoring its legacy through intricate design, curated amenities, and award-winning guest experiences.

"New York City is one of the greatest cities in the world and we are honored to open our doors to locals and travelers looking for a best in class hotel, dining, and entertainment experience," said Jim Allen, Chairman of Hard Rock International. "Hard Rock has had a presence for decades in the City, but this location will deliver an entirely new experience from the brand that's been synonymous with music and entertainment for over 50 years."

Dynamic Entertainment
Paying homage to Music Row, the mecca of recording studios and music stores that once lined 48th Street, Hard Rock Hotel New York offers live music across all public spaces with a dynamic and engaging approach to entertainment programming.

As part of a groundbreaking brand partnership between Hard Rock International and Audacy, one of the largest broadcasters in the United States, Hard Rock Hotel New York is home to an integrated Audacy Live state-of-the-art performance studio and entertainment hub. A series of recording sessions, live events, and intimate performances from A-list artists will be featured on an ongoing basis.

The Venue on Music Row is the hotel's show stopping feature with an extraordinary entertainment space spanning two floors inspired by New York from a bygone era when jazz clubs, speakeasies, and dinner-theater performances reigned supreme. The Venue is set to be a must-visit destination, playing host to world class entertainment performances as well as fashion shows, after-parties, and gala dinners for some of the city's most sought-after moments.

Striking Accommodations
Hard Rock Hotel New York features 446 exquisitely designed guest rooms and specialty suites offering floor-to-ceiling windows that showcase the city's vibrant energy. The rooms are designed with striking blue tones and gold accents, which are inspired by the city lit up at dusk, when the night falls and marquee lights shine. Guests will find iconic imagery of notable artists printed on glass doors along with sound wave carpet patterns and sculptural artwork above the headboards. With a variety of room types ranging from well-appointed King Rooms to Platinum Suites with terraces, each features Kimono robes, Lavazza® espresso, Rock Spa® bath products, and high speed Wi-Fi to complete the act.

Sitting atop the 36th floor is the jewel of the Rock Star Suite, a glass-enclosed penthouse with expansive city views, original contemporary artwork, bespoke music memorabilia, and one of the largest terraces for entertaining in New York City at 1,600 sq. ft. The sleek interior design includes double height ceilings and rich tones and textures creating an inviting and timeless space. On its first level, the suite features an open-plan living and dining area with a bar and butler pantry, an outdoor bar, VIP direct access to the RT60 rooftop bar & lounge, and more. Guests can retreat upstairs to a luxurious bedroom area with a walk in closet and contemporary bathroom featuring a red free standing bathtub.

Eclectic Food & Beverage Experiences
A multitude of day to night culinary and cocktail concepts grace the hotel, including fine dining at the upscale NYY Steak in partnership with the New York Yankees, the brand's all-day signature Sessions Restaurant & Bar, and RT60 Rooftop.

At NYY Steak, Mozambique wood paneled walls are complemented by autographs from famed players while heritage-sourced steaks, local market seafood and creative main dishes are served on fine China inscribed with player numbers within the iconic franchise insignia. NYY Steak is open daily, providing an elevated backdrop for business lunches and celebration dinners.

From day to night, Sessions Restaurant & Bar represents the soundtrack of New York, serving farm-fresh fare for breakfast, lunch, and evening bites daily. Located on the main level and accessible by a grand staircase from the street, this light-filled atrium with an open-air terrace offers live, unplugged musical performances that embody the vitality and ingenuity of the city.

Guest and locals can discover the city from new heights at RT60 bar and lounge located on the 34th floor. Delivering masterfully crafted cocktails, shareable bites and an effortlessly stylish scene, RT60 will elevate music & entertainment in Midtown Manhattan.

World-Famous Merchandise
One of Hard Rock's most appealing aspects to the adventurous traveler is the local Rock Shop®. Hard Rock Hotel New York will feature a Rock Shop accessible from 48th street for the guest who loves to wear or gift the season's latest trends, highlighting the City and location they visit. Hard Rock's merchandise is for collectors and any visitor looking to take home a part of the legendary experience they had at Hard Rock Hotel New York.

Music-Infused Design
From the moment of arrival, guests are greeted by an artistic expression of music, transporting them to a new, exciting, and engaging atmosphere that brilliantly exudes the entertainment energy of New York with the culture and history of Hard Rock.

Spearheaded by award-winning design firm Jeffrey Beers International, the artistic expression of music is layered in meticulous detail throughout every area of the hotel. In each space, the guest discovers a design or sculptural homage to music, such as guitars and brass wind instruments, or to music notes and sound waves. Bold materials include lush dark woods, striking marbles, luxurious brass finishes, and tactile leather and velvet fabrics. The rich color palette features the property's signature blue, distinguished browns, warm golds and brass, and pops of metallic silver, lush greens, and vibrant reds.

Signature Hard Rock memorabilia lines the walls with displays from artists across generations and genres including a classic leather motorcycle jacket owned and worn by Joey Ramone; a pair of silver patent leather boots worn by Lady Gaga; handwritten lyrics for John Lennon's 1972 ode to his adopted home, "New York City,"; and custom outfits from Jay Z and Beyoncé among other iconic pieces.

Immersive Guest Experiences
In true Hard Rock style, a variety of signature brand experiences and amenities exclusive to Hard Rock Hotels can be found in New York. Amenities include the Sound of Your Stay® which allows guests to listen to Tracks® curated playlists inspired by the city they're in, Crosley record players available upon request with Wax®, or play a Fender guitar with Picks® in the privacy of their room. The Unleashed® pet program will welcome four legged friends to enjoy the same memorable experience as their pet parents. Guests are invited to exchange the traditional city map for Soundtracks® interactive area guides which are curated by Hard Rock and musical artists to showcase the best of each destination.

Beyond the public spaces, Hard Rock Hotel New York weaves the kinetic force of music into health and wellness offerings, featuring the brand's signature Rock Om® program fusing the practice of yoga with the rhythm of a custom DJ-curated soundtrack for on-demand in-room sessions. Building on the existing offering, expect the hotel to introduce a series of transformative experiences including rooftop moonlight yoga sessions.

Hard Rock Hotel New York introductory nightly rates start from $475. For more information and reservations, please visit www.hardrockhotels.com/new-york.

 

About Hard Rock®:
Hard Rock International (HRI)  is one of the most globally recognized companies with venues in 68 countries spanning 253 locations that include owned/licensed or managed Hotels, Casinos, Rock Shops®, Live Performance Venues and Cafes. HRI also launched a joint venture named Hard Rock Digital in 2020, an online sportsbook, retail sportsbook and internet gaming platform. Beginning with an Eric Clapton guitar, Hard Rock owns the world's largest and most valuable collection of authentic music memorabilia at more than 86,000 pieces, which are displayed at its locations around the globe. In 2021, Hard Rock was honored as one of Forbes Magazine's Best Employers for Diversity, a Top Employer for Women and the Top Employer in the Travel & Leisure, Gaming, and Entertainment Industry. Hard Rock was also designated as a U.S. Best Managed Company by Deloitte Private and The Wall Street Journal and named the top performing hotel brand in J.D. Power's North America Hotel Guest Satisfaction Study for the third consecutive year in 2021. The brand is owned by HRI parent entity The Seminole Tribe of Florida. For more information on Hard Rock International, visit www.hardrock.com or shop.hardrock.com.

About Hard Rock Hotels & Casinos®
Hard Rock Hotels & Casinos is internationally recognized as a leader in the hospitality industry – offering world-class entertainment, contemporary designs, incomparable service and one-of-a-kind brand amenities, catering to modern travelers who seek a reprieve from traditional, predictable hotel experiences. Driven by integrity, philanthropy and unparalleled guest experiences, the brand adorns 27 distinctive Hotels and 9 Hotels & Casinos in the world's most enviable destinations. Hard Rock Hotels provide amazing live music, dining options that make guests' taste buds sing, head-to-toe wellness services and many more amenities, in addition to offering best in class protocols for health and safety which Hard Rock deems SAFE+ SOUND. For more information on Hard Rock Hotels, visit hardrockhotels.com.

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