Microsoft and ZeniMax Workers United Reach Preliminary Accord

Following a two-year negotiation, ZeniMax Workers United has secured a tentative agreement with Microsoft. According to Bloomberg, the contract includes a 13.5% salary increase set to take effect on July 1, 2025, as well as new minimum salary standards. The Communication Workers of America noted that the agreement will shield employees from arbitrary dismissal and provide a more transparent grievance process, in addition to a crediting policy that recognizes the contributions of quality assurance workers. The contract also incorporates a previously announced agreement regarding the integration of artificial intelligence in the workplace. Microsoft described the agreement as a significant step forward, reflecting a shared commitment to constructive dialogue and a common goal of fostering a positive work environment. A ZeniMax QA tester and bargaining committee member, Jessee Leese, stated, 'The video game industry has been a revenue powerhouse for years, but the workers behind these games are often exploited for their passion and creativity.' Leese added, 'By forming a union, negotiating a contract, and speaking with a collective voice, workers have been able to reclaim the autonomy they deserve. Our first contract serves as an invitation for video game professionals everywhere to take action and fight for fair treatment.' CWA president Claude Cummings Jr. commented, 'The video game industry is demonstrating the power of collective action. This agreement showcases what can be achieved when workers unite and refuse to accept the status quo.' The ZWU-CWA was established in 2023, comprising over 300 QA employees across ZeniMax's US operations. In May 2024, ZeniMax Studio workers were formally covered by Microsoft's labor neutrality agreement with the CWA, requiring Microsoft to maintain a neutral stance on staff unionization. Last December, 461 employees of ZeniMax Online Studios formed the ZOS United-CWA union, and nearly 250 Bethesda Game Studios developers also unionized last year.