Groupe Lucien Barriere Showcases Interest in Wakayama; Announces Jean Reno as Brand Ambassador

Groupe Lucien Barriere firmly showcased their interest in the development of an integrated resort in Wakayama Prefecture on Tuesday, 14 May with a variety of press events focused around Wakayama City. This included the launch of the group’s first Japan-based offices, a formal statement on their commitment to Wakayama Prefecture and the announcement of Hollywood actor Jean Reno as their brand ambassador.

The day began with a morning ribbon cutting ceremony to formally launch the group’s first Japanese office in Wakayama City. Attended by approximately 50 local business leaders, the ceremony included the formal ribbon cutting by Mr. Alexandre Desseigne-Barriere, Mr. Jonathan Strock, Mr. Jean Reno and Mr. Naohisa Kashihata of the Wakayama Chamber of Commerce.

The office opening was proceeded by a press conference held at the Marina City Hotel. During the conference, Mr. Desseigne-Barriere presented the background of his family’s company and their experiences in the development of destination integrated resorts. Mr. Strock proceeded to discuss the company’s commitment to Wakayama Prefecture and its citizens, noting that of all the locations reviewed within Japan, the group felt Wakayama was most in line with their brand direction and overall IR plan for the country. Finally, it was announced that Mr. Jean Reno of Hollywood fame will be the be the group’s brand ambassador for the project. Mr. Reno mentioned his love for Japan and his desire to return regularly to Wakayama City as the project proceeds. The group then proceeded to watch the famed Tuna Cutting performance offered by Marina City’s Kuroshio Market, where Mr. Reno was able to get a close-up view after being brought up on stage to witness the event.

The day concluded with a visit to the Wakayama Prefectural Office and a meeting with Governor Nisaka, where the group re-affirmed their commitment to the people of Wakayama and introduced the Governor to Mr. Reno.

The day’s events were captured by a wide array of media, including local Wakayama, Kansai-Region and even Tokyo media in attendance.

The group will have a second press event on Friday, 17 May in Tokyo at the Japan Gaming Congress aimed at promoting a similar message to local and national media outlets.