Microsoft Aims to Garner Support for Activision Blizzard Acquisition with Pro-Union Ad

In a recent advertisement published in The Washington Post, Microsoft expressed its dedication to upholding union principles, as it seeks to acquire Activision Blizzard. The ad, co-signed by the Communications Workers of America, highlights Microsoft's intention to apply the same principles to Activision Blizzard in 2023. This move is likely an attempt to build goodwill, given Activision Blizzard's history of opposing unionization. The company has faced allegations of union busting and has been involved in several disputes with its employees over working conditions and wages. Microsoft's acquisition of Activision Blizzard has been met with regulatory challenges, including a lawsuit filed by the US Federal Trade Commission, citing concerns about the impact on competition. In response, Microsoft has stated that it is not asking the FTC to disregard competition concerns, but rather to explore solutions that balance the needs of workers, consumers, and the economy.