Its sales rise slowly (foreign growth offsetting sluggish conditions in the U.S.), but by holding costs down its profits rise a little more swiftly.

FORBES: Can Kroger Beat Wal-Mart?

Sainsbury's has posted a fall in pre-tax profits despite rising sales, as conditions remain "challenging".

BBC: Sainsbury's full-year profits fall despite rising sales

You are likely to find a buyer more quickly and at a better price if you factor in local market conditions and recent sales before setting an asking price, burnish your home's Internet profile and plan ahead for a home appraisal.

WSJ: Is It Safe to Sell Your House Now?

But the federation's reading on expected business conditions remained deep in recession territory, and business owners reporting declining sales far outnumbered those saying sales increased.

WSJ: Stocks Keep Streak Alive

Telecoms sales are ruled out by market conditions, but a sale of Air France could be predicated on the airline's turnaround in recent years.

ECONOMIST: Privatisation in Europe