Rockstar North layoffs spark unionisation dispute as workers allege mass sacking linked to organising
Former Rockstar North employees allege a mass October layoff targeted union activity; the company says dismissals followed breaches of policy over sharing confidential information. The case has drawn parliamentary attention and could lea…
A group of former Rockstar North employees has told BBC Scotland that a mass layoff in October, affecting 31 staff, was connected to unionising efforts. Most of the dismissed workers were based at the Edinburgh headquarters, and the terminations were described by the company as gross misconduct. Rockstar North says the action followed breaches of policy after staff discussed confidential information about upcoming and unannounced titles in a public forum.
Protests have continued outside the firm’s Edinburgh and London offices as the dismissed workers and supporters press for answers about the cause of the mass sacking. The Independent Workers' Union of Great Britain has described the removals as a ruthless act of union busting.
Among the former employees speaking to BBC Scotland is Jordan Garland, who worked at the firm for 11 years and says many colleagues wanted to unionize to improve working conditions. He was reportedly among the first to be dismissed on the morning of October 30 and says the initial period was difficult but helped forge a stronger community among former staff.
Jamie Trimmer, who had worked at Rockstar North for about 18 years, says the firing affected the longest‑serving staff and underscores the broader need for workplace representation. He notes that the mass dismissals were a shock and that they reflect the seriousness with which some workers view unionisation.
The former group is pursuing an employment tribunal against Rockstar North, though case hearings can take up to a year. In the interim, they are seeking an intermediate relief hearing that could reinstate employees or keep them on the payroll while the case proceeds.
Parliamentary attention followed the case. During a Westminster session last week, MP Chris Murray raised the issue; Prime Minister candidates said it is deeply concerning and pledged to examine workers rights and protections for union activity.
Sarah Blackburn said she appreciated the public and political support after she lost her job at Rockstar North. She described the support as validating and noted solidarity from unions in other industries.
Rockstar North has reiterated that the dismissals targeted a small group of individuals who shared confidential information about future titles in a public forum, in breach of policy and legal obligations. The company denies that the actions were connected to union membership or activities. Outside the offices, some workers have expressed appreciation for public and political support as they navigate the next steps.
Looking ahead, Rockstar North remains one of the United Kingdom’s largest game developers, with GTA 6 due out in November 2026. The case highlights ongoing tensions in the tech and gaming sectors around labor organizing and employee rights, and it demonstrates that even high‑profile projects face scrutiny when workplace conditions come under public debate.
