The highest prime shopping centre rents in Europe are recorded in Russia and the United Kingdom, where they stand at €2,000 per sq m per annum. Due to the limited availability of prime retail space In many shopping centres across Europe, the outlook for prime rents in most European markets is stable despite the inevitable slowing of demand from occupiers over the last 12 months. However there remains downward pressure on rents in a few markets, including Hungary, Romania and Spain. In general, the dynamic face of retailing and continuing demand from new retailers for prime shopping centres, together with active management opportunities should continue to go some way in shielding the best schemes from the generally challenging occupier conditions.