Ubisoft Workers of Montreal Union petition to "preserve hybrid work" secures over 300 signatures

The Ubisoft Workers of Montreal Union has launched a petition to preserve hybrid work, which has garnered over 300 signatures. The Game Workers Unite Montreal (GWU) union initiated the campaign on September 30 through social media. They urged all Ubisoft Montreal employees to sign the petition and to spread the word to their networks.

In-person signature collection was the primary method, with most signatures gathered during break hours. The United Videogame Workers Union (UVW-CWA) expressed solidarity with the UWM union, emphasizing the ongoing fight for dignified work and economic justice. The petition highlights the impact of "Return to Office" policies on various employee groups, such as parents, workers with disabilities, and those who thrive in remote environments.

Ubisoft's restructuring into Creative Houses led to a mandatory return-to-office mandate in the first quarter of the year, requiring staff to work five days a week with a limited number of remote workdays annually. Ubisoft's SVP of studio operations, Marie-Sophie de Waubert, believes in-person collaboration is crucial for efficiency, creativity, and overall success.

The company's CFO, Frederick Duguet, mentioned that discussions with employees and their representatives will take place to discuss the changes. In February, a three-day international strike occurred in response to the restructuring and return-to-office mandate, with at least 1,200 employees participating.