Outdoor gear and apparel company L.L.Bean, is to open its first Chinese store in Beijing. It will be operated through a joint venture between the 96-year old Maine outfitter and Youngone Corporation of Korea.

The Beijing store will offer approximately 3,000 sq. ft. of retail space and is the first of five L.L.Bean stores scheduled to open this year as part of the company's China-based joint venture.

President and CEO, Chris McCormick, said: "Throughout China there is a growing interest in participating in outdoor and recreational activities. L.L.Bean is a natural fit within this market.”

The store has been designed as a "total outdoor lifestyle shop" and will provide a broad product assortment including outdoor apparel and footwear, luggage, and a selection of outdoor sporting goods including hiking and camping equipment.