Surprising no-one, Wizards of the Coast 'doesn't intend to voluntarily recognize' union efforts for the second time this year

Wizards of the Coast informed the United Wizards of the Coast Union (UWOTC-CWA) that it does not intend to voluntarily recognize the union’s D&D or Studio X units before an upcoming election. The union, which includes employees from Magic: The Gathering Arena and other teams, had previously unionized in June and was given until May to secure formal recognition. The company’s stance follows a pattern of resistance to union efforts within the organization.

Wizards of the Coast sent physical letters to employees urging them not to proceed with the union vote, while claiming compliance with the National Labor Relations Act. The letters suggested that current benefits could be subject to negotiation regardless of the vote’s outcome. Employees reportedly received daily emails reinforcing this messaging, framing the company’s approach as legally permissible but contentious.

In a statement to Wargamer, Wizards of the Coast stated it was not neutral on unionization, emphasizing its preference for direct employee relations over union representation. The company acknowledged employees’ right to unionize but framed its opposition as aligned with maintaining a collaborative workplace. The statement concluded that Wizards would respect the election results, though its actions suggested otherwise.

The UWOTC-CWA is seeking improved wages, career progression, job security, and protections for remote work and sustainable workloads. Additional demands include healthcare improvements, safeguards against AI-related workplace risks, and ownership rights for creative work produced outside official duties. The union’s leverage stems from the profitability of D&D and Magic: The Gathering, which contributed $568 million in operating profit over six months, despite losses in other divisions.