T3 Austin = More Layoffs?

I really don’t like reporting on layoffs. I’ve been laid off and I’ve been fired. I also get anonymous tips and this blog is in the “business” of reporting what is happening in the ad world.

I got these tips today:

“Rumor has it that T3 is laying off 60 people today. That’s a lot. It’s probably your fault for posting those videos. ;)”

“T3 doing layoffs today. Not sure on a body count yet.”

“T3 body count at 5 so far. San Fran office getting hit harder, no word on it yet.”

‘T3 had yet another layoff today. Not sure if its a sign of an impending client leaving of what, but atleast 5 people for sure have gotten the axe from the Austin office and a decent chunk of the San Francisco office is no longer bringing in the cash for Gay Gaddis.

They received a 2 weeks severance deal and all remaining employees are said to have to take a paycut. I’m certain the paycut doesn’t apply to the favorites of the company, or the favored CEO herself. One would like to know if the famed $60K birthday bash will still be taking place in April?”

Gay Gaddis’ Quote in the Austin Business Journal:

“As 2009 budgets are reviewed, clients are cutting back and we are adjusting accordingly to meet their needs,” said Gay Gaddis, president and founder of T3, in a statement. “T3 is committed to helping our clients navigate this tough economy and help them get the most out of every dollar spent.”

Marriott Checks Out

Word on the street is that Marriott has ended or is about to end their relationship with Austin-base ad agency T3. No word as to the specific reason or the possibility of yet more layoffs, but Marriott is supposedly booking a reservation, if you will, with Continuity, an agency started by ex-T3 VP John McGarry Jr. (Please forgive me for sending you to a site that plays music and forces you to look for and find the audio off button.)