BROOKLYN PARK, MN-Wilsons The Leather Experts cites a tough retail environment in scaling back expansion next year to 20 stores, a fraction of what it had planned. It also will close 20 stores.

TAMPA- While industrial distribution space is often largely concentrated on big boxes, one Tampa-based real estate professional is finding that smaller, flexible spaces can prove to be a profitable niche.

CHICAGO-Security Capital Group Inc. bows out of the extended-stay lodging business by selling the 141-property chain to Blackstone Real Estate Advisors. Security Capital gets a $115-million note at 12% interest escalating to 16%.

LONDON-To the dismay of environmentalists and local residents and to the relief of business and property groups, Transport Secretary Stephen Byers has approved a new terminal to increase the capacity of Heathrow airport by one third.