L'Oréal Inspiration Gallery, courtesy of L'Oréal

L’Oréal lays out ’09 game plan (WWD)
L’Oréal, “the world’s largest beauty company this year plans to up its advertising outlay while at the same time cutting its number of stockkeeping units, introducing lower-priced items, implementing a hiring freeze in certain markets and focusing on innovative products.” (Subscription required)

Benetton sales growth slows (Drapers)
The sales growth for Benetton has slowed to a 2.9%, and the Italian company issued a warning that the upcoming year will be tough.

Economy adjusts store relations on Madison Avenue (IHT)
“The recession has quickly transformed the attitude of the Madison Avenue work force from impenetrable to inviting, seemingly overnight.”

The End of Brands as We Know Them? (Branding Strategy Insider)
“Something as simple as a [shopping] bag, that only six months ago was the essence of a status symbol now might be considered a liability,” for luxury stores.