Arnold Trims HQ Staff by 8%

BOSTON Havas’ Arnold has cut about 50 employees from its headquarters here, representing roughly 8 percent of the office’s staff, according to sources. The agency ranks as the largest ad shop in the New England region.

The cuts don’t stem from any specific client losses or budget reductions, but were made to help the agency weather what is expected to be an especially harsh business climate over the next 12 months.

Mainly support and creative staffers were let go, and Arnold offices in New York and McLean, Va., were not affected, per sources.

An Arnold representative offered no immediate comment.

The agency this year has turned in a so-so new-business performance, adding the $70 million Carnival Cruises account but notching no other major assignments. Other key clients include Volvo, the American Legacy Foundation and Fidelity Investments.