UK department store group House of Fraser is preparing for its debut in China after pushing back its original April launch date because of the Chinese New Year.

House of Fraser China says it has made “good progress” with its store planning with the launch now set for late this year.

The first store will open in Nanjing, inspired by the historic Frasers store in Glasgow, and featuring international and local brands. The opening will follow flat sales for the group during the first half of its latest fiscal year. However, the Chinese-owned department store group believes there is “significant opportunity” to set up as a global brand, says executive chairman Frank Slevin.

When Sanpower Group acquired House of Fraser two years ago, founder Yuan Yafei spoke of a global vision for the department store, including outlets throughout the Middle East and Russia, and as many as 50 stores in China.

House of Fraser last year confirmed it would open three stores in China.