Chinese online retailer JD has launched a new department store channel by integrating several existing businesses from its fashion and lifestyle sections, including clothing, cosmetics, and housewares. In addition to online channels, the company will build an offline presence for the service with plans to open themed bricks-and-mortar stores in major cities. The firm plans to launch the first group of such department stores in locations including Beijing, Chengdu, and Xi’an before June 18 this year, Chinese media outlet 36Kr reported. Fashion and lifestyle is a major category where JD has seen rapid growth for third-party sellers, especially after a regulatory crackdown on forced exclusivity, a practice in which platforms forbid merchants from selling their wares on competitors’ platforms. [36Kr, in Chinese]