As BCSC 2013 opens it's doors today Nadia Elghamry, Data Editor at Estates Gazette, talks to the Costa, the UK's most acquisitive retailer, to find out what it wants from its property portfolio in the year ahead.

With a stated aim of opening 300 stores next year, James Hamilton, the coffee operator's head of acquisitions and estates, explained that the drive through market remains a big growth area for it's business but the shape of its portfolio would remain a blend of high street, retail parks and even universities, offices and concessions. He added that the company would love to do more of its large metro format stores in London but warned: "London is the most competitive market in the UK and I see no sign of that softening especially with competition from the restaurant uses."

Hamilton said new stores was a critical part of driving profit as part of the company's stated aim of aim of doubling sales to £2bn within five years. Listen below to hear the full interview with Hamilton where he discusses plans for the property portfolio in the year ahead, how it will tackle competition from supermarkets and other fast food operators and what he thinks of Starbucks.