An is plotting its first store outside of after 318 years amid a surge in demand for its luxury teas, biscuits and jams. Fortnum & Mason currently has four UK stores that are all based in the capital.

was established in 1707 by William Fortnum and Hugh Mason. Its main store is located at 181 Piccadilly in the St James' area of Lonon, there are also smaller outposts at St Pancras International, The Royal Exchange and Heathrow Airport Terminal 5. The upmarket department store recently expanded to Hong Kong's K11 MUSEA.

And now it looks like Fortnum & Mason is looking to venture outside of the capital with the stores chief Tom Athron saying he would be interested in opening stores "up the spine of the country", adding: "We do like the idea of stepping beyond Piccadilly [where it has its flagship store], and certainly stepping beyond London."

The retailer's chief executive told he would look at sites in a "beautiful location" with "beautiful architecture".

Fans of the iconic brand may not have to wait long for the new stores as Mr Athron said the company are looking at possible locations now.

He said: "This isn't about ubiquity. But there are other locations across the country where we think that Fortnum could offer both retail and restaurants, where it would be relevant. And we're looking at those now."

Mr Athron also hinted they will soon target more airport stores, with plans to open outlets in "every terminal" at Heathrow.

Earlier this year the retailer launced its very first paid loyalty scheme called 'Friends of Fortnum's'. The annual membership will set you back £100 and offers benefits including seasonal food and drink selections, free next-day delivery on orders over £25, and priority access to events.