Enjoy Punta del Este Resort & Casino, widely regarded as Uruguay's premier integrated gaming and hospitality destination, is set to change ownership after Brazilian conglomerate JHSF Participações S.A. confirmed its acquisition of the property for US$160 million, in one of the largest gaming and tourism transactions in Latin America in recent years. The deal transfers ownership of the landmark resort from Chile's Enjoy S.A. to a Brazilian investor and forms part of the seller's financial restructuring strategy following several years of corporate reorganization. The transaction will still require the completion of the relevant corporate and regulatory approval processes before closing.
The acquisition adds to the portfolio of JHSF, led by CEO José Auriemo Neto, one of Brazil's largest luxury real estate and hospitality groups. Located on Playa Mansa in Punta del Este, Maldonado Department, the resort is internationally recognized for its long history as the former Conrad Punta del Este. The complex features approximately 294 hotel rooms and suites, more than 75 gaming tables, between 550 and 600 slot machines, a dedicated poker room, VIP gaming areas, restaurants, a spa, swimming pools, a convention center and event facilities. It also employs more than 900 people directly, making it one of the largest private employers in Uruguay's leading tourism destination.
José Auriemo Neto
The change in ownership does not automatically transfer the casino licence. Operations will remain subject to Uruguay's regulatory framework and the concession system overseen by the Directorate General of Casinos (Dirección General de Casinos – DGC), which operates under the Ministry of Economy and Finance, headed by Minister Gabriela Fachola. The existing regulatory obligations governing casino operations, compliance and supervision remain unchanged regardless of the ownership transition.
For Enjoy S.A., the transaction represents a key milestone in its strategy to strengthen its financial position and reduce debt. For JHSF, it marks the company's entry into the casino industry outside Brazil and significantly expands its international luxury portfolio. Best known for developing Fasano Hotels, premium shopping centers, high-end real estate projects and executive airports, JHSF is now adding one of South America's most prestigious gaming resorts to its portfolio.
Market expectations are that the new ownership will support additional investments in hospitality, entertainment, gastronomy and convention facilities, further reinforcing Enjoy Punta del Este as one of Latin America's leading integrated casino resorts.
