Who owns Sands Casino? This question has intrigued many as the casino, located in Atlantic City, New Jersey, has been a prominent figure in the gaming industry for decades. The ownership of Sands Casino has seen several changes over the years, each bringing its own unique story and impact on the casino’s operations and reputation.
The Sands Casino was originally opened in 1978 by the Sands Corporation, a company founded by brothers Sheldon and Donald Trump. The Trump family’s ownership of the casino marked the beginning of their venture into the gaming industry. However, their tenure was short-lived, as the Sands Corporation filed for bankruptcy in 1990. Following the bankruptcy, the casino was sold to a group of investors led by Carl Icahn, who renamed it the Sands Hotel and Casino.
Under Icahn’s ownership, the Sands Casino continued to operate and expand. In 2003, the casino was sold again, this time to a group of investors led by Steve Wynn, who was a prominent figure in the gaming industry. Wynn’s ownership brought significant changes to the casino, including a major renovation and the addition of new amenities. However, Wynn’s ownership was also short-lived, as he sold the casino in 2005 to a group of investors led by Malaysian businessman Richard Branson.
The Sands Casino was then purchased by a group of investors led by Donald Trump, who had previously owned the casino in the 1970s. This marked the return of the Trump family to the Sands Casino, and they embarked on a massive expansion project, renaming the casino the Trump Plaza. The expansion included the addition of a new hotel tower, a spa, and a convention center. However, the Trump family’s ownership of the Sands Casino was once again short-lived, as they sold the casino in 2013 to a group of investors led by Tilman Fertitta, the CEO of Landry’s, Inc.
Under Fertitta’s ownership, the Sands Casino has undergone another major transformation. The casino was renamed the Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa, and a new tower was added, featuring luxury suites and additional amenities. The Borgata has since become one of the most popular destinations in Atlantic City, attracting visitors from around the world.
In conclusion, the ownership of Sands Casino has seen several changes over the years, each bringing its own unique story and impact on the casino’s operations and reputation. From the Trump family to Richard Branson and now Tilman Fertitta, the Sands Casino has been a testament to the dynamic nature of the gaming industry and the ever-evolving landscape of Atlantic City.