It was a little more than a week ago that French casino operator Groupe Cartouche SA announced that it was backing away from plans to get involved with Japan’s integrated resort (IR) scene. It had been working with Oshidori International Holdings to attempt a run at a possible gaming license in Nagasaki, but decided to cancel the partnership with no substantial explanation given at the time, other than to indicate “differences in vision.” The cat’s out of the bag now, and it appears that Cartouche may have nixed that deal to get in bed with someone else. The company is now part of a consortium that has plans to vie for an IR license in Japan once the country finally moves forward. 

Pixel Companyz, a FinTech and renewable energy company out of Japan, announced today that Cartouche has joined the consortium and that it will be responsible for operating the casino. Where the group plans on targeting its efforts in the country still isn’t known, although Nagasaki and Osaka are likely choices. These two have consistently been on the shortlist of prospective locations that would be included among the first three IRs approved by Japan. 

Pixel adds in its announcement, “Pixel Companyz and Groupe Partouche will work together with their consortium partners to plan, develop and operate a premier integrated resort in Japan. The consortium aims to develop an IR unique to Japan that will highlight the tourism assets, food culture, brands and the hospitable culture that the country has to offer.”

The consortium will also be able to count on the support of TTL Resorts, which Pixel asserts has “wide-ranging experience in data analysis and investment aspects of the gaming industry.” However, multiple attempts at finding out more about the company haven’t produced any results, other than the mention of the company related to the new consortium. The arrangement between Pixel and TTL Resorts apparently involves both an injection of capital and business support.