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Merck to Cut 1,200 US Sales Positions

http://biz.yahoo.com/bw/080505/20080505006337.html

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Monday May 5, 4:30 pm ET

WHITEHOUSE STATION, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Merck & Co., Inc. today announced plans to reduce the size of its U.S. sales force by 1,200 positions.

"Merck is taking this step as part of our previously disclosed, continuing efforts to optimize our cost base and improve Merck's effectiveness and efficiency across all aspects of our business as part of our Plan to Win strategy," said Kenneth Frazier, president, Global Human Health. "With eight successful launches of Merck products approved in the U.S. since 2006 now behind us, and with an unexpected delay in a new product approval, we decided to accelerate the achievement of efficiencies we anticipate gaining as we transition to our new commercial model in the U.S."

The Company does not anticipate any disruption in its service to customers as these changes occur.

Affected employees, who are located throughout the U.S., will be notified by the end of May; separations will be completed by the end of July. As Merck takes this difficult but necessary action, the Company is committed to treating employees with fairness and respect. Eligible employees will receive benefits and other services to assist them.
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