Greetings card chain Card Factory has said that it intends to float on the London Stock Exchange. The Initial Public Offering (IPO) is one of several high profile flotations planned by UK retailers this year.

Card Factory focuses on the value and mid-market segments of the UK's resilient greeting cards market, and also offers a wide range of other quality products, including small gifts and gift dressings.

Founded in 1997 with just one store, the chain currently operates 700 stores throughout the UK as well as online through its website www.gettingpersonal.co.uk