Canfora was instrumental in establishing the Empress properties as the premier gaming destination in the Midwest, rehabilitating their operations and adherence to compliance in a heavily regulated industry. Together the casinos employed more than 8,000 people and generated annual revenues in excess of $900 million, all the while, Mr. In this role Canfora oversaw four casino properties. Prior to forming Merit Management Group, Canfora served as President of Empress Casinos from and became President of Horseshoe Gaming, LLC when it acquired Empress in 1999. Canfora served as an executive board member for Argon Credit, LLC, and is the current President and Member of the Board of Managers PHL Local Gaming LLC. Canfora has played key roles in high value financial transactions, including a $294 Million Casino IPO, securing and managing funding for gaming projects in excess of $500 million and raising equity for several start-up casinos and businesses.
Canfora is the founder and Chief Executive Officer of Merit, providing guidance and development for some of the premier casinos throughout the country with proven success in building profitable operations in competitive environments. Joseph Canfora brings over 30 years of leadership in management, capital investments, business development, compliance, and operations to the Merit team.
