How the Removal of a Private Doctor Sparked a Union at the Developer of Candy Crush

In early 2024, a significant change at Activision Blizzard's Stockholm office ignited a unionization drive. Microsoft, the new owner, eliminated a highly valued employee benefit: a dedicated, on-site doctor for employees and their families. This decision, coupled with short notice, spurred over one hundred employees to form a union club with Unionen, Sweden's largest trade union.

This action reflects a unique aspect of Swedish labor relations. Union membership is widespread (approximately 70%), and unions negotiate broadly with industries, securing benefits like paid sick leave. However, forming a company-specific union club, and securing a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), allows for additional workplace-specific benefits and a greater voice in company decisions. This follows a trend in the Swedish gaming industry, with companies like Paradox Interactive and Avalanche Studios already having unionized workplaces.

The catalyst for unionization at King Stockholm was the removal of the on-site doctor, a benefit highly valued by employees. While a private health insurance plan was offered as a replacement, it lacked the personal touch and accessibility of the previous arrangement. This sparked widespread discussion and a surge in union interest, transforming a previously inactive Slack channel into a hub of activity with over 200 members.

The union's formation has been met with a neutral response from Activision Blizzard HR, aligning with Microsoft's publicly stated neutral stance toward unions. While the lost doctor benefit is irretrievable, the union aims to secure a CBA to protect existing benefits and address other concerns. These include salary transparency, protection against reorganizations and layoffs, and improved communication regarding company decisions.

A key aspect of the union's work is educating employees about their rights, particularly those from diverse international backgrounds who may not fully understand Swedish labor laws. The union provides a platform for information sharing and collective advocacy.

Ultimately, the unionization effort at King Stockholm, born from a specific grievance, has evolved into a broader initiative to safeguard the company culture, benefits, and employee well-being. It underscores the importance of employee voice and influence in shaping the workplace.