London folding bike maker Brompton has sold a minority stake to sports retail giant Decathlon and Chinese investor BA Capital in an £18 million deal aimed at accelerating its international expansion.
The investment will see Decathlon Pulse, the retailer’s investment arm, acquire a 10 per cent stake in the British cycling brand, while BA Capital will take a further 5 per cent shareholding.
The partnership comes as Brompton seeks to capitalise on growing global demand for sustainable urban transport, particularly in Europe, North America and Asia.
Founded in London in 1975, Brompton has built a global reputation for its distinctive folding bicycles, which are designed for commuters and city living. Around 70 per cent of production is exported, with manufacturing remaining at its facilities in west London and Sheffield.
The company has also expanded into electric bicycles, a segment that has become a key driver of growth across international markets. Prices range from £999 for entry-level models to £5,799 for its premium titanium electric bike.
Decathlon said the investment will support Brompton’s next stage of growth, including expansion into key markets such as Germany and China, while preserving the company’s “Handmade in London” identity.
As part of the agreement, selected Brompton models will also be sold through dedicated spaces in certain Decathlon stores.
BA Capital, an early investor in viral toy brand Labubu through its backing of Pop Mart, said the deal reflects growing consumer demand in China for healthier, experience-led lifestyles.
Chief executive Will Butler-Adams said the company saw significant opportunities as demand for flexible and environmentally friendly urban mobility continued to rise.
“For over 50 years, Brompton has been dedicated to helping people move around cities in a way that is simpler, more flexible and more enjoyable,” he said.
“As demand for smarter and more sustainable urban transport continues to grow, we see a tremendous opportunity ahead.”
The investment underlines continued international appetite for established British manufacturing brands, while giving Brompton greater access to global distribution networks as competition intensifies in the premium cycling market.
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