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Arnold, Burnett Vie for Boston McDonald’s

BOSTON—Arnold and Leo Burnett made presentations last week to officials of the McDonald’s franchisee group of Boston, and a decision is imminent, sources said. Chicago-based Publicis Groupe shop Burnett and its media affiliate, Starcom, added the estimated $15-20 million business from Boston-based Havas agency Arnold in a review two years ago. Arnold handles several other franchisee accounts, including the account for metropolitan New York. Asked about the review in Boston, Beth Bullock, regional marketing director for McDonald’s, provided a brief statement that said, in part, “McDonald’s … is currently looking at all avenues within its business, including advertising, to create greater efficiencies, and ultimately cost savings.”

Volkswagen Convertible Takes to Airwaves

BOSTON—Arnold has begun to unveil elements of its introductory campaign for Volkswagen of America’s New Beetle Convertible, and an integrated TV, radio, print and online push will be in full swing by late December.