Ubisoft Introduces “Voluntary” Layoff Initiative at Paris Headquarters to Reduce Workforce by Up to 200 Positions

Ubisoft Faces Challenges Amid Major Company Restructuring

The recent news from Ubisoft reveals a dramatic shift within the company as it embarks on a “major reset.” This overhaul has led to the reorganization of the entire company into five distinct ‘Creative Houses, ’ alongside numerous project delays and cancellations. Such sweeping changes have resulted in a significant decline in the company’s stock price, reaching its lowest levels since 2011. As per reports, morale at Ubisoft Paris is reportedly declining, marked predominantly by “anger and despair.”

Voluntary Layoff Program Details

In an effort to streamline operations, Ubisoft is implementing a voluntary layoff program that could potentially impact as many as 200 employees. It’s important to note, however, that the final number of layoffs may be fewer depending on participation in the program. This initiative is specifically directed at employees with contracts under Ubisoft International, and no final resolution on these layoffs will occur until an agreement is reached with union representatives and sanctioned by French authorities.

“In line with last week’s announcements on its new operating model and the acceleration of cost-reduction initiatives, Ubisoft International (HQ’ legal entity) has initiated discussions regarding a potential Rupture Conventionnelle Collective (RCC), a collective, voluntary mutual termination agreement that could involve around 200 positions at its headquarters in France, ”the statement reads.

The proposal still requires negotiation with unions and validation by French authorities before it can take effect, and is limited to Ubisoft International employees with French contracts, without affecting other Ubisoft teams globally.

Background on Layoffs and Strikes

These layoffs are part of a broader cost-reduction strategy aimed at achieving a savings goal of €200 million. This strategy coincides with a mandated return-to-office policy, elements that sparked a strike outside the Ubisoft Paris office on January 22, 2026.

Union Response and Leadership Criticism

It is evident that Ubisoft’s troubles are far from over. Prior to the strike, the video game union Solidaires Informatique expressed discontent, directly criticizing CEO Yves Guillemot for the prevailing issues within the company. The union stated:

“It is out of the question to let a boss run wild and destroy our working conditions. Perhaps we need to remind him that it is his employees who make the games.”

Yves Guillemot, a co-founder of Ubisoft, has been at the forefront of the company since its inception alongside his brothers. However, during his leadership over the last eight years, Ubisoft has experienced a staggering loss, with its total value plummeting by 95%. What once held a value of $10 billion is now reported at just $500 million as of last week.

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