Shanghai will be home to the world's largest Disney store by 2015 when the Shanghai Disney Resort opens to the public.

The Walt Disney Co China announced on Friday plans to build its first, and the world's largest, Disney store in Lujiazui, Shanghai.

Stanley Cheung, executive vice-president and managing director, The Walt Disney Company, Greater China, said: "Disney has combined the retail concept with storytelling, fun and innovation and will provide families with a uniquely immersive entertainment destination featuring our best-loved stories and characters."

Yang Xiaoming, general manager of Shanghai Lujiazui (Group) Co Ltd, said the store's innovative design, product and entertainment offerings will provide the Lujiazui area with a family friendly destination and will contribute to Shanghai's reputation as a family, business, cultural, entertainment and tourism destination.

To open in early 2015, the 5,000 square meters store will be located in Shanghai's financial hub, and will feature a retail space and a Disney-themed outdoor plaza area.