Trade Unions Threaten Strike Against King Over Collective Agreement Dispute

Several major Swedish trade unions, including Unionen and Sveriges Ingenjörer, have announced plans to strike against the gaming giant King, famed for Candy Crush Saga, due to the company's refusal to sign a collective agreement. The strike is scheduled to begin on September 25, 2026, unless a resolution is reached before then.

Negotiations between King and the unions have been ongoing for about a year but have stalled recently. The unions warn that over 80% of King's employees could participate in the strike. Approximately 100 members from Sveriges Ingenjörer alone are expected to be affected by the strike action.

Camilla Frankelius, head of negotiations at Sveriges Ingenjörer, expressed the unions' desire to avoid the strike but emphasized that it has become necessary to secure employees' conditions and influence. Martin Wästfelt, Unionen's chief negotiator, described the strike as "necessary" after King ultimately refused to sign the collective agreement despite serious and constructive negotiations.

This labor dispute represents a significant escalation in Sweden's tech sector industrial relations landscape, with the strike threatening to disrupt operations unless a solution is found quickly. Both sides remain hopeful for a negotiated settlement prior to the strike's commencement.