ATLANTIC CITY, N.J., April 5, 2017– Today, Hard Rock International officially announced the completed acquisition as well as unveiled plans for the launch and significant redevelopment of Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City. Dignitaries including Governor Chris Christie, Atlantic City Mayor Don Guardian, Hard Rock International Chairman Jim Allen and Senate President Stephen Sweeney, as well as local representatives, gathered to learn more about the momentous opportunity the project will bring to Atlantic City. The former Taj Mahal building will undergo an all-encompassing $375 million renovation and reopen in summer 2018. The upcoming Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City is situated on 17-acres of prime Boardwalk real estate, offering vast views of the city and Atlantic Ocean.

Impacting local and regional economies, as well as contributing to the revitalization of Atlantic City, the partnership between Hard Rock International and the Morris and Jingoli families will create more than 1,000 jobs during construction and 3,000 permanent jobs. Since the transaction on March 31, Hard Rock has already hired 23 employees as it sets out to bring the once iconic property back to life.

"From world-renowned music events to innovative dining concepts, we're excited to bring the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino experience to the Atlantic City boardwalk – which has been home to our Hard Rock Cafe for more than 20 years," said Jim Allen, chairman of Hard Rock International. "Our commitment to Atlantic City has never been stronger and we look forward to being a catalyst for further growth and development of the area."

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City will offer a range of gaming opportunities with 2,400 slots and 130 table games. Additionally, the casino will boast an entirely redesigned interior with first-class food and beverage concepts. Hard Rock Cafe Atlantic City will move to a new 400-seat venue, including an improved stage and central location within the property featuring beach access. Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City will become the premier entertainment destination with live music, sporting events, conferences and shows with two separate arenas offering more than 7,000 seats total.

The entrance of Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City will be completely reimagined, beginning with updating the existing facades along Pacific Avenue, at the resort entry, porte cochére and along the world-famous Atlantic City Boardwalk. Upon arrival, guests will enjoy a new check in experience and lobby lounge. Guestrooms and suites will undergo a complete renovation and redesign to offer lavishly appointed rooms in a setting that is anything but uptight. Meeting space will be updated to accommodate both large conventions and smaller events.

A full-service spa will feature relaxing and recharging treatments, and The Sound of Your Stay music amenity program will offer complimentary in-room Fender guitar checkouts. With Hard Rock International's standing as curators of the world's largest and most priceless music memorabilia collection, the property's design will feature museum-like displays adorning the walls. Memorabilia for the hotel will be carefully hand-selected with a focus on contemporary musicians and artists who call New Jersey home.

Through music appreciation and an imaginative environment, Hard Rock Hotels & Casinos delivers products for the varied aspects of life – work, play and personal sanctuary. For additional information on Hard Rock International, please visit www.hardrock.com.