Hard Rock opens Japan division - Announces Edward Tracy as CEO
Tokyo – 30 January 2017
1Hard Rock International – with presence in more than 74 countries – announces the launch of Hard Rock Japan LLC and the appointment of Edward Tracy as chief executive officer of the company’s new division. Tracy’s recent appointment is a strategic move designed to support the company’s growth plans in the region.
Hard Rock is no stranger to Japan with more than 30 years of experience in the country – opening its first Japanese cafe in Tokyo with long-time partner, WDI Group, in 1983. With six Hard Rock Cafe locations currently in operation, in addition to 24 hotels and 11 casinos around the world, Hard Rock showcases its proven track record of developing and managing distinguished entertainment and hospitality venues. With the recent passing of Japan’s Integrated Resorts Promotion Bill, the company fully intends to apply this expertise and recognition as a major contender among the bidders for resort licenses.
Edward Tracy joined Sands China Ltd, a subsidiary of Las Vegas Sands Corp., in July 2010 as its president and chief operating officer, becoming the company CEO in July 2011. Tracy was responsible for the oversight of the country’s largest integrated resort operator by revenue, capacity and content, with 13,000 hotels rooms and 30,000 team members. In October 2014, Harvard Business Review named Mr. Tracy as one of “The Best-Performing CEOs in the World” in its respected annual top 100 ranking. Prior to Sands, Mr. Tracy served as president and CEO of Capital Gaming, a multi-jurisdictional manager of regional casinos. He also served as president and CEO of the Trump Organization, where he was responsible for managing over 12,500 employees, 3,000 luxury hotel rooms and 240,000 square feet of casino space.
Tracy’s appointment and the launch of Hard Rock International Japan further solidifies Hard Rock International’s rapid expansion efforts and commitment to growth in Asia.
With venues in 74 countries, including 175 cafes, 24 hotels and 11 casinos, Hard Rock International (HRI) is one of the most globally recognized companies. Beginning with an Eric Clapton guitar, Hard Rock owns the world’s greatest collection of music memorabilia, which is displayed at its locations around the globe. Hard Rock is also known for its collectible fashion and music-related merchandise, Hard Rock Live performance venues and an award-winning website. HRI owns the global trademark for all Hard Rock brands.