Greenbrier Resort Now Under New Ownership

The Greenbrier Hotel and Resort in White Sulphur Springs now has a new majority owner, as first reported by MetroNews.  

Kennedy Lewis Investment Management in New York has entered into a joint venture with Sen. Jim Justice and his family for $500 million.  

The deal is expected to eliminate approximately $300 million of debt and provide the new company with the money to make updates to the property. 

According to an announcement from the resort, “The transaction provides The Greenbrier with a robust financial foundation and underpins long-term investment in the resort, its facilities and the guest experience.” 

Kennedy Lewis has appointed Lloyd Nathan as chairman of The Greenbrier’s Board of Directors. Nathan brings decades of experience across hospitality, gaming, real estate, investment and large-scale development, including nearly a decade with MGM Resorts International, the statement read. 

“The Greenbrier is a truly unique American institution, with a remarkable history, dedicated employees and a special connection to West Virginia and its guests,” said David Chene, managing partner, Kennedy Lewis Investment Management. “By combining Kennedy Lewis’s financial, strategic and operational resources, Lloyd Nathan’s thoughtful and proven oversight as chairman and the Justice Family’s deep local roots, we have built a powerful platform to invest in the property’s long-term future and reinforce its standing among the premier destination resorts in the world.” 

The Greenbrier also received authorization Friday from the West Virginia Lottery Commission to continue casino operations while the commission completes its review of the transaction.  

Representatives of The Greenbrier said they appreciate the commission’s engagement and look forward to working cooperatively through the review process as it considers final approval of the new ownership structure. In the meantime, casino operations will continue without interruption. The Greenbrier will remain open and fully operational throughout the transition. Existing reservations, meetings, conferences, weddings and other scheduled events will continue as planned. 

“Today marks an exciting new chapter for The Greenbrier and an important moment for everyone who loves this resort,” said Jill Justice, director of Operations of the Justice Family Group. “This property is so much more than a resort. It is part of the history of West Virginia, an economic anchor for this community and a place where generations of families have celebrated the most important moments of their lives. Our collaboration provides the financial strength, expertise and long-term investment needed to protect everything that makes The Greenbrier special.”  

“The Greenbrier is one of the truly irreplaceable destination resorts in the United States,” said Nathan. “Very few properties can match its history, natural beauty, scale, amenities and emotional connection with generations of guests. Our intent is not to change what makes The Greenbrier special but to invest in its future, enhance what makes it exceptional and ensure America’s resort continues to thrive for generations to come.”