"French Union Takes Stand Against Don't Nod's Layoff Strategy: Key Insights and Implications"

French Union Pushes Back Against Don’t Nod’s Aggressive Layoff Plan

Source: Aftermath

Overview of the Situation

Don’t Nod, the developer known for Life Is Strange, is facing backlash from the STJV union regarding a restructuring plan that may lead to the layoffs of up to 69 employees, which constitutes 29% of its Paris-based workforce. This action follows a series of disappointing sales results and the halt of several game projects.

Union’s Response

• The STJV union has condemned the leadership of Don’t Nod, asserting that management's decisions have contributed to the current difficulties.
• The union urges its members to mobilize in defense of their jobs, referencing the successful organizing efforts seen at other companies like Ubisoft.

Background on Don’t Nod’s Recent Challenges

Don’t Nod's latest games, Jusant and Banishers: Ghosts of New Eden, failed to meet commercial expectations. The company has had to reconsider its project pipeline in light of these developments, which has increased pressure to implement layoffs.

Union Criticism of Management

STJV claims that Don’t Nod's management is deflecting responsibility for its poor performance onto employees, framing current economic conditions as the reason behind the layoffs. The union argues this is a façade that ignores internal decision-making flaws.

Call to Action for Workers

The STJV recommends a comprehensive resistance strategy, drawing parallels to the collective actions taken during Ubisoft’s recent strikes, emphasizing that workers shouldn't bear the fallout of corporate mistakes.