Grindr, a popular LGBTQ+ dating app, has lost about 45 per cent of its staff after the company implemented a strict return-to-office policy. The policy requires employees to work in the office two days a week, and those who refuse to comply are being fired.
The policy was implemented after a majority of Grindr employees announced plans to unionize. Of the 178 personnel, approximately 80 resigned when the company mandated a two-day in-person workweek at designated “hub” offices in August or face termination, as reported by the Communications Workers of America (CWA).
CWA has accused Grindr of trying to silence its workers by forcing them back into the office. In a statement, the union said, “These decisions have left Grindr dangerously understaffed and raises questions about the safety, security and stability of the app for users.”
Grindr CEO George Arison has defended the policy, saying that it is necessary to improve productivity and collaboration. However, he has also acknowledged that more staff attrition is expected as a result of the mandate.
Allegations have also emerged that Grindr’s provision of severance packages to non-relocating staff is an attempt to stifle dissent about working conditions, resulting in a second labor complaint filed by the CWA.
The sources for this piece include an article in LosAngelesTimes.