Prominent Casino Tycoon Who Contributed to Macau's Rise Above Las Vegas Passes Away at 95
Galaxy Entertainment's Chairman Transition: Francis Lui Takes the Helm
Lui Che Woo, the late chairman of Galaxy Entertainment Group and one of Hong Kong's wealthiest men, passed away on November 7 at the age of 95. Despite this significant loss, Galaxy Entertainment continues its operations, with Francis Lui Yiu Tung, the son of Lui Che Woo, stepping up as the new chairman.
Lui Che Woo's vision, tremendous leadership, and guidance were imperative for Galaxy Entertainment's success. He chaired the company, one of six Macau gambling license holders, and led it to become a major player in the region's gaming and tourism industries.
Francis Lui, who is also the chairman of K. Wah Group, has been actively involved in Macau's tourism and education sectors. He serves as the inaugural Chair of the Trustees Committee of the Macao University of Tourism (UTM) Development Foundation, Vice-Chair of UTM Council, and Director of the Francis Y.T. Lui Charity Foundation Limited. Francis Lui has also made significant philanthropic contributions, including a donation of MOP30 million (~$3.7 million) to UTM.
Francis Lui's leadership role at Galaxy Entertainment solidifies his key influence in the company and Macau’s broader tourism and gaming industries. He has discussed growth plans for Galaxy Entertainment, including new boutique hotel developments at Galaxy Macau.
Lui Che Woo made his initial fortune in quarry mining and construction through the Hong Kong-listed K. Wah Group. His other children are involved in various aspects of the family's business interests globally. Despite his wealth, Lui Che Woo was known for being understated, often wearing a flat cap.
Lui Che Woo was a prominent figure in Macau's gambling industry. He was a key driver in Macau surpassing Las Vegas as the world's biggest gambling hub in 2006. Galaxy Entertainment owns more real estate on the Cotai Strip than any other concessionaire.
Galaxy Entertainment has announced that it will appoint a new chairman in due course. In the meantime, Francis Lui leads many projects within the company, ensuring a smooth transition and a promising future for the gaming and tourism giant.
- With Galaxy Entertainment's new chairman, Francis Lui, maintaining a considerable impact in the casino-and-gambling industry, he is crucial in steering the company towards further growth, especially in casino-games and casino-culture.
- Macau's casino-personalities, such as the late Lui Che Woo and his successor Francis Lui, have significantly contributed to the casino-culture, transforming Macau into a global leader in casino-games and tourism, a title it holds above even Las Vegas.
