Business news in brief: Xstrata | Nokia | Macdonald Hotels | Marston’s

EUROPEAN regulators have set a deadline of 8 November to decide on whether to clear the $33 billion (£20.5bn) takeover of mining group Xstrata by commodities trader Glencore.

Brussels officials now have just over a month to decide whether to approve or reject the deal. They could also kick off an in-depth probe into one of the largest mining takeovers to date. However, the tie-up would also need the approval of regulators in China and South Africa.

Nokia may sell HQ to help stay afloat

Nokia plans to sell its headquarters in Finland as part of a €1.6 billion (£1.3bn) cost-cutting programme.

The company will maintain its corporate base in the country but selling the glass and steel structure known as “Nokia House” near Helsinki is one of the options the struggling mobile phone maker is considering as it disposes of noncore property holdings.

McCormack’s key role at Macdonald

Macdonald Hotels & Resorts, with more than 40 four- and five-star establishments throughout the UK and Spain, has named Elaine McCormack as its director of sales.

McCormack, who is said to have more 20 years’ experience in the hotel, travel and leisure attraction sectors, said: “Macdonald Hotels & Resorts has a superb reputation and a fantastic portfolio to offer the corporate, conference and leisure markets.”

Brewer ‘resilient’ despite the weather

Brewer and pubs operator Marston’s has reported a “resilient” performance in the face of unseasonable weather, with a 2.2 per cent rise in sales across its managed pubs estate during the year to 29 September, boosted by higher food sales.

Operating profits at its leased, tenanted and franchised pubs, were around 3 per cent higher than last year. The group, which brews the Marston’s Pedigree and Hobgoblin brands, said beer volumes were up 2 per cent.