Supplier News
Russia – Aristocrat suspends mobile gaming in Russia and assists Ukrainian workforce
By Phil - 9 March 2022
Aristocrat Leisure has provided an update on its people and business operations in view of Russia’s invasion and the war in Ukraine with an immediate suspension of its mobile games in Russia.
Approximately 1,000 people normally work for business units within Aristocrat’s Pixel United organisation in Ukraine.
Aristocrat stated: “Unfortunately, operating in Russia is currently not viable and Aristocrat confirms it will suspend operating our mobile games in Russia. Russia has historically contributed approximately three per cent of total annualised Pixel United bookings. The thoughts of all Aristocrat people are with our Ukraine colleagues and the team members who are supporting them at this difficult time. The wellbeing and safety of our people remain our highest priority and Aristocrat’s Pixel United team continues to lead a comprehensive response.
To date, Aristocrat has assisted over two-thirds of our Ukraine based employees and their families to voluntarily relocate, either internationally or to safer locations within the country. A special task force has been set up in Poland to assist staff and families on the ground. Aristocrat is providing transport, visas and legal help, housing and settling-in assistance for relocated staff.
Aristocrat is also making every possible effort to support employees and their families that remain in the country. This includes providing funds, shelter, emergency supplies and other direct aid.
The company added: We are also continuing to strongly encourage and support those able to relocate to do so, as quickly as possible.
Aristocrat does not anticipate a material impact on earnings as a result of the crisis. It explained: “The business is leveraging its broad network of studios and operations across Europe, U.S and Israel, and its combined global capabilities, to put in place effective mitigations and uphold business continuity. Relocated staff are working remotely, supported by existing Pixel United studios across Europe. A new office will open shortly in Wroclaw, Poland, adding to our existing operations in Poland, and supporting further talent acquisition over time.
“In respect of our Russia based employees, we are exploring our strategic options and we will continue to do what we can to support our Russia based employees. Pixel United is continuing to actively manage and prioritise game content release schedules. We will continue to closely monitor impacts given the fluid situation, and provide an update at Aristocrat’s half year financial results in May.”
Pixel United recently won the Most Improved Social Casino Game category with its Lightning Link Casino by Product Madness at the EKG Slot Awards.
