Marriott International is planning major expansion in mainland China, starting with their Fairfield by Marriott brand. They’ve reached an agreement with Chinese lodging group Eastern Crown Hotels to open 140 hotels in the next five years in the country. More than 70 percent of those are expected to open by 2021.

Each of the new Fairfield locations will hold between 100 and 150 guestrooms. It’s a significant move for the company, which to date operates only 80 hotels in 25 Chinese cities — small potatoes compared to their presence in other areas.

“China is the fastest growing market in Asia for us. The rising disposable incomes of the middle class and development of the consumption-led economy is driving an increased demand for higher quality mid-range accommodation,” said Craig Smith, president and managing director, Marriott International Asia Pacific, in a statement.

The brand, Smith also said, hopes to attract younger guests and business travelers. It’s been a popular introduction in Asia since it was launched in the region two years ago, said Shruti Buckley, vice president and global brand manager, Fairfield by Marriott.

“Due to the fast growing global demand for quality mid-tier hotels, Fairfield currently has the largest development pipeline within Marriott International, positioning the brand as the fastest growing in the portfolio,” Buckley said in a statement.