British retailer John Lewis plans to seek growth in Asia.

MD Andy Street says the department store chain is planning to set up concessions in department stores in 10 new Asian countries including Japan and Malaysia.

It will also increase its concessions in Korea, where it already operates through partnership with Shinsegae department store.

John Lewis says it will spare China from its Asian expansion as it believes the Chinese market is not yet suitable for its product range.

Street said the British retailer also plans to open its own standalone department stores internationally besides expanding its online business.

It is also making its foray into airport retailing with first store to open at Heathrow’s terminal 2 in June 2014.