Swedish apparel retailer H&M has announced plans to vigorously expand in the Chinese market during 2009 by opening five new specialty stores in Beijing, Shanghai, and Hong Kong.

Chinese electronics chain department store Buynow has announced plans to accelerate its deployment plans in 2009 with the company planning to open at least five large IT stores in such cities as Beijing, Shanghai, and Qingdao.

Suning's Shanghai headquarters has announced plans to open 20 new electronics stores in Shanghai in 2009, covering 12 districts including Minhang, Baoshan, Pudong New Area, Xuhui, Jing'an, Huangpu, and Fengxian.

Baskin-Robbins, one of the world's largest ice cream chains, has established a strategic partnership with Shaanxi Stellerich Food and Restaurant Co., Ltd. to jointly explore the mainland China market in the eastern and northwestern areas.

Apple has confirmed on its official website that the company will open its first Apple Store in China at Sanlitun Village in Beijing.

Omega's first flagship store in Chongqing recently opened at the Metropolitan Plaza in the municipality.