• by Sarah Mahoney  @mahoney_sarah, May 24, 2011

Disney Store says it plans to speed up the opening of its interactive stores, announcing more than 40 new locations for this year.

The new store type, first unveiled in July of last year, includes plenty of places for hands-on play, including the chance for kids to build toy custom cars, see themselves as princesses in magical mirrors, and follow trails of pixie dust throughout the merchandise

Based on the expanded plan, Disney now says it expects to have 60 new concept stores in 16 major markets in North America, as well as eight countries.

Disney isn't alone. Such chains as Macy's, Subway, Target, Zumiez, Saks and Urban Outfitters have recently announced stepped-up expansion plans, which retail experts say is another sign that the economic recovery is on solid footing.