IKEA seeking southern warehouse?

Speculation is mounting that IKEA is hunting for a 700,000 sq ft South of England warehouse as it prepares to expand its 19-strong UK store network.

Sources say the furniture retailer is currently examining sites to supplement existing depots in Doncaster and Peterborough.

New showrooms are expected in addition to large free-standing stores as part of a plan for double the size of IKEA's UK business.

The IKEA requirement is one of a growing number of requirements over 600,000 sq ft now circling the South and Midlands.