US health, wellness and sports nutrition products retailer GNC is expanding its retail presence in China, opening its first standalone store in Shanghai.

The first standalone store opened at Raffles City, located opposite the historic People’s Square and within walking distance of Nanjing Rd and the Shanghai Municipal Government Office.

The move complements GNC’s existing marketing footprint in the world’s largest consumer market.

GNC says it will open additional 25 stores in China within the next 12 months.

“GNC will continue to expand our retail store presence in this dynamic and fast-growing market, and we are excited about finding new opportunities to address the needs of China’s many health and wellness consumers with new and innovative products,” said CEO Joseph Fortunato.

GNC has been selling its ‘Made in the USA’ products in China since 2011 when it opened its Shanghai-based office and distribution center.

It currently has over 60 shops-in-shops within different major grocery, convenience and health and wellness chains in China, including Ole, City Super, Sam’s Club and Watson’s.

Its brand products are also sold on the internet through GNC licensed partners on e-commerce sites that include Tmall, Amazon and 360buy.