Spotlight: L.A. Gear to Cut 170 Jobs in Restructuring

The athletic-footwear maker said it plans to cut 170 jobs, or 55% of its U.S. work force, early next year as it struggles to return to profitability. L.A. Gear Inc. also said it will consolidate and restructure its European operations. The company will reduce overhead by consolidating operations at its Santa Monica headquarters and its Ontario distribution center. As part of its plan, the company said, President and Chief Operating Officer William L. Benford will resign, effective immediately.