Seminole Hard Rock has earned a national honor in a program sponsored by Deloitte Private and the Wall Street Journal.

The U.S. Best Managed Companies program unveiled its 2021 honorees April 13. Seminole Hard Rock was one of 49 private businesses recognized. It is the first time a privately-owned gaming organization has been awarded the U.S. Best distinction.

“On behalf of the 40,000+ team members at Seminole Hard Rock, we are humbled to be the first gaming company awarded the U.S. Best Managed Company designation and to be recognized alongside so many outstanding privately-held businesses,” Jim Allen, chairman of Hard Rock International and CEO of Seminole Gaming, said in a statement. “Our team members all contribute to the success of our organization and I want to thank them for their dedication and commitment to service excellence and financial results, which make this recognition possible.”

The Seminole Tribe of Florida is the parent entity of Hard Rock International, which has 239 owned/licensed or managed hotels, casinos, cafes, Rock Shops and live performance venues in 68 countries.

The businesses honored by the program each generate at least $250 million in annual revenue. The program recognizes businesses for demonstrating excellence in strategy, execution, culture and financials. A three-person panel of independent judges made the selections. Seminole Hard Rock is one of only two Florida businesses that made the 2021 list; the other is Miami-based Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits, the largest wine and spirits distributor in the U.S.

“After a challenging year for many businesses, it feels more important than ever to recognize the outstanding achievements of our 2021 US Best Managed Companies honorees,” Jason Downing, vice chairman, Deloitte LLP, and U.S. Deloitte Private leader, said in a statement. “These businesses are led by visionary and innovative management teams throughout the country and across industries. Their resilience and sustained commitment to their purpose, particularly throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, is inspiring. We welcome them into the program and look forward to their continued success.”

Click here for more about the program and winners.