Evolution cuts 1,000 jobs in Georgia following prolonged strike
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15 Aug 2024 •
Reading time: 3 minutes Evolution, a leading online casino company, has announced that it is cutting 1,000 jobs in Georgia. The drastic move follows a prolonged strike that has crippled the company’s operations and eroded customer confidence.
Strikes since mid-July
The strike that began in mid-July at Evolution in Georgia did not happen overnight. It is the result of growing discontent within the company, fueled by years of tensions over working conditions.
The reasons for the strike are multiple and linked to underlying issues regarding working conditions within the company. Employees are denouncing in particular:
- Salaries deemed insufficient in light of the cost of living in Georgia and the level of stress related to the live dealer profession.
- Irregular working hours and insufficient breaks, negatively impacting the physical and mental health of employees.
- A lack of recognition from management and a feeling of being treated as mere executors.
After several unsuccessful attempts to negotiate with management, employees decided to take things to the next level. The strike movement quickly grew in size, paralyzing a significant part of Evolution’s operations.
The situation became even more tense when the strikers blocked access to the company’s buildings in Tbilisi, preventing many employees from working and leading to the closure of several studios.
These actions had a significant impact on Evolution’s business. They seriously compromised the company’s ability to honor its commitments to its customers. Customers, for their part, became increasingly dissatisfied with the service interruptions.
A labor dispute with serious consequences
Despite calls for dialogue from the unions, Evolution maintained a firm stance. The company condemned the strikers’ actions, calling them illegal and detrimental to the business. The 1,000 job cuts and the transfer of many gaming tables to other studios around the world are the first consequences of the drastic measures taken by the company to ensure its sustainability.
In a statement, Evolution said:
“We have always done our best to create a positive and respectful work environment for our employees, with fair wages and development opportunities. There are things we could have done better, and we are committed to continuing to work to improve the situation. It is with deep regret that the actions of a small number of individuals have led to such consequences for so many.”
However, the company also stressed that the layoffs were a necessary measure to ensure the survival of its operations in Georgia.
“This regrettable decision was not taken lightly, it is a direct consequence of the union’s illegal actions and their negative impact on Evolution’s operations in Georgia, as well as on our customers’ perception of Georgia.”
Evolution has already warned workers that further layoffs could be considered if the situation does not improve.
Evolution’s response has been heavily criticised on social media, with many accusing the company of failing to manage the situation and prioritising its financial interests over the well-being of its employees.
For Evolution, the challenge now is to rebuild its reputation and re-engage with its employees to prevent further social crises.