Pfizer move may prompt more job cuts.

(From AFX Europe (Focus))

NEW YORK (AFX) -

Pfizer Inc.'s decision to cut 20 percent, or 2,200 jobs, from its U.S. sales force may trigger other companies to slash their own ranks of representatives, ending an expensive and not especially efficient arms race, analysts said.

On Tuesday, Pfizer said it would cut the jobs as part of a cost-cutting program to transform the company into a more nimble organization as it struggles with sluggish sales.

Analysts applauded the move, which they speculated could save Pfizer between $400 million and $500 million annually. But beyond the benefits for Pfizer, analysts hoped other companies would consider …