Brompton sells minority share to Decathlon and Chinese investment firm
Brompton, the British folding bike company, has sold a minority share of the business to two new investors: Decathlon Pulse, the investment arm of the French outdoor goods giant, and Chinese investment firm BA Capital. According to reporting by the Guardian, the sale is worth some £18 million (US$24 million).
The deal moves existing shares to new hands from Brompton founder Andrew Ritchie, other long-term shareholders and some staff, but leaves the ownership and management of the company unchanged – and Ritchie remains the largest shareholder.
Decathlon Pulse, which acquired a 10% share, has been expanding its portfolio in the bike industry over the years – it already holds stakes in German bike refurbisher Rebike and has previously invested in cycling computers and fitness watches through Magene and Coros.
Similarly, BA Capital – which bought a 5% share – already owns shares of e-bike brand Tenways and Labubu maker Pop Mart. The Chinese investment firm is expected to help boost Brompton's position in China and the broader APAC region that's already Brompton's largest market by revenue. More than 70% of Bromptons are exported from the company's manufacturing plant in London.
The new partners describe the sale as an attempt to "accelerate micro-mobility and premium urban cycling," and it suggests Brompton has turned toward focused expansion after a rough patch of falling profits and staff cuts.
