GWU Fighting for Fair Deal as 120 Gambling Workers Face Redundancy

The General Workers' Union has rolled up its sleeves to fight for 120 employees at gambling firm Aristocrat Interactive, entering conciliation proceedings to secure the best possible compensation package as the company prepares to shut down its Malta office by the end of June [1].

The closure comes after Aristocrat Interactive, formerly known as Aspire Global, announced it would exit the white-label iGaming market globally. In this sector, the company provides ready-made platforms that other businesses can rebrand and use to enter the market [1].

Riccarda Darmanin, secretary of the GWU's Professionals, Finance and Services Section, made clear where the union's focus lies. "The GWU's immediate and absolute priority is the well-being of the affected workers and their families," Darmanin said [1].

Following requests from employees themselves, the union has launched its negotiation efforts with legal support in hand, determined to secure the strongest compensation deal possible under the circumstances. "The GWU remains fully committed to supporting all affected employees in every way required, while also helping them explore opportunities for alternative employment," Darmanin added [1].

The announcement came earlier this week via a LinkedIn post from an Aristocrat manager, with the company later confirming the timeline. An Aristocrat spokesperson said the decision followed a comprehensive review that determined the white-label business was "not core to its growth strategy" [1].

There is some light on the horizon for affected workers. GamingMalta, the government-backed foundation that promotes Malta as an online gambling hub, said it was actively working with Aristocrat's leadership and government stakeholders to support those facing redundancy [1].

The foundation also pointed to encouraging job market figures, noting that there are approximately 1,200 open vacancies among Malta Gaming Authority licensees. This suggests real opportunities exist for affected staff to find alternative employment within Malta's thriving gaming sector [1].