LONDON-International retailer Dixons has warned that its property bill will soar by euro 40.58 million ($49.3 million) this year because of rising rents and property-tax rates in the UK. The announcement came as new research showed retail rental growth running at 2.3% a year, consumer spending declining and retail requirements down 10%.

LONDON-International retailer Dixons has warned that its property bill will soar by euro 40.58 million ($49.3 million) this year because of rising rents and property-tax rates in the UK. The announcement came as new research showed retail rental growth running at 2.3% a year, consumer spending declining and retail requirements down 10%.

LONDON-Berkeley sold its Crosby Homes business to Lend Lease for euro 356 million ($429 million). Analysts have broadly welcomed the deal and predict further consolidation in Britain's housing market.

LONDON-Berkeley sold its Crosby Homes business to Lend Lease for euro 356 million ($429 million). Analysts have broadly welcomed the deal and predict further consolidation in Britain's housing market.

LONDON-Prudential Real Estate Investors has raised $140 million from to invest in the German residential market. Over the last year more than euro 10 billion ($12.6 billion) has been invested by US and UK funds in the sector.

LONDON-Prudential Real Estate Investors has raised $140 million from to invest in the German residential market. Over the last year more than euro 10 billion ($12.6 billion) has been invested by US and UK funds in the sector.

LONDON-Laura Ashley has become the second leading retailer to announce it was closing its top store in London's West End in less than a week. Both retailers cited Regent Street rental hikes for their decision.

LONDON-Laura Ashley has become the second leading retailer to announce it was closing its top store in London's West End in less than a week. Both retailers cited Regent Street rental hikes for their decision.