bebe stores to Cut Over 50 Jobs

bebe stores said Thursday that it will cut more than 50 jobs in the design, merchandising and production areas, as part of a workforce reorganization being implemented as a result of the company's focus on more streamlined lifestyle assortments and increased efficiencies across business functions. The company expects pre-tax costs associated with the move to be about $1.5 million, and anticipates annual cost savings of about $4.8 million. In addition, Manny Mashouf, chairman of the board of bebe, will be re-engaged with the company, working closely with the design and merchandise teams to help guide the initiative.