British girlswear brand David Charles is to open 50 stores across China in five years.

David Charles has partnered with licensee Unisal to open its first four stores in the nation, with first two to open in Shanghai this month.

The brand says it is scouting for a franchisee who could manage stores planned for China.

China’s expanding middle class has prompted David Charles to operate there, says co-founder David Graff.

“I’ve been sourcing fabric in China for many years and over the years I’ve seen, particularly in Shanghai, the growing middle class and the growth of the top of the (retail) market,” said Graff.

David Charles was founded in 1970 by husband and wife David and Susan who create dresses that are sold through boutiques including Harrods.