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, under new ownership by Microsoft, unexpectedly ignited a unionization drive. The removal of a highly valued employee benefit – a private company doctor for employees and their families – prompted over one hundred employees to establish a union club with Unionen, Sweden's largest trade union.

This action reflects the unique Swedish union landscape. Union membership is widespread, encompassing roughly 70% of the workforce, and enjoys strong legal protections. While national-level agreements cover broad aspects of employment, individual company union clubs negotiate Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs) to secure additional workplace-specific benefits and influence company decisions. This mirrors a growing trend within the Swedish games industry, with similar unionization efforts at companies like Paradox Interactive and Avalanche Studios.

The catalyst for the King Stockholm union was the abrupt cancellation of the on-site company doctor, a benefit highly valued by employees, particularly during the pandemic. The lack of prior consultation and the short notice given fueled discontent and highlighted the absence of employee bargaining power. This spurred a surge in union interest, rapidly increasing membership from a handful to over 200. The group subsequently formed a union club and elected a board to negotiate a CBA.

While Microsoft has publicly adopted a neutral stance toward unions, the King Stockholm union's primary goal isn't to reinstate the lost doctor benefit but to safeguard existing benefits and improve workplace conditions. Key areas of focus include salary negotiations, increased transparency regarding company decisions (including reorganizations and potential layoffs), and ensuring employee input on future changes. The union also serves an educational role, informing employees of their rights, particularly those from diverse international backgrounds.

Unionen organizer Timo Rybak emphasized the mutual benefit of unionization, providing employees a platform to share their perspectives and expertise with management, fostering better understanding and collaboration. For Kajsa Sima Falck, a King employee and union board member, the union's formation is about preserving the positive aspects of their work environment and ensuring a voice in shaping their future. The initial reaction to a negative change has evolved into a proactive effort to protect the company culture and employee well-being.