British folding bicycle maker Brompton has welcomed two new investors as it looks to grow its business around the world. French sports retailer Decathlon and Chinese investment firm BA Capital have purchased minority stakes in the company. The move comes as Brompton says the global cycling market is starting to recover after several difficult years. Decathlon has acquired a 10% stake in Brompton, while BA Capital has purchased another 5%. Together, the investments are believed to be worth about £18 million. The deal gives Brompton fresh strategic partners while allowing existing shareholders and employees to sell part of their holdings. Brompton said the investment is not only about raising money. The company believes both partners will help improve its business through better technology, stronger supply chains, and valuable market knowledge. Chief executive Will Butler-Adams said the company views the partnership as a chance to learn from experienced global businesses. He explained that Brompton wants to improve its operations while keeping the quality and identity that have made the brand successful for many years. Decathlon made its investment through Decathlon Pulse, the company's investment division. The group has previously supported several sports and technology businesses, including companies that make cycling computers and sports watches. Brompton believes this experience will help it develop new products and reach more customers. BA Capital is also expected to play an important role in Brompton's future plans. The investment company has interests in several consumer brands, including bicycle maker Tenways and toy company Pop Mart, known for the popular Labubu collectible figures. According to Butler-Adams, BA Capital brings valuable knowledge of the Chinese market. China has now become Brompton's largest market, making local expertise increasingly important as the company continues its international growth. Decathlon said the partnership is based on shared values rather than financial returns alone. The retailer praised Brompton's focus on quality, long-term planning, and environmentally friendly urban transport. It said both companies want to make cycling easier and more accessible while protecting Brompton's unique identity. As part of the agreement, Brompton bicycles will be displayed in dedicated areas inside selected Decathlon stores for the first time. These special retail spaces will allow customers to explore the folding bikes in person before making a purchase. Butler-Adams said the partnership will introduce Brompton to a wider audience. He believes greater visibility in Decathlon stores will help attract new riders who may not have considered a folding bicycle before. Brompton bicycles are known for their compact folding design. Prices currently begin at about £999 and can reach nearly £6,000 for premium titanium electric models. The company has built a strong reputation among city commuters who need portable and durable transportation. The chief executive also shared an optimistic view of the cycling industry. He said the market has largely moved beyond the sharp slowdown that followed the pandemic. During the health crisis, bicycle sales increased rapidly as many people avoided public transport and spent more time outdoors. When normal travel returned, demand for new bicycles dropped as households reduced spending. Rising living costs also made many buyers delay large purchases. These factors created difficult trading conditions across the cycling industry. Even so, Butler-Adams believes long-term trends remain positive. He pointed to the growing number of bike lanes in cities around the world, increasing interest in healthy lifestyles, and stronger support for clean transportation. He said these changes continue to encourage more people to cycle. The investment deal also allows long-time shareholders and employees to sell some of their shares. Butler-Adams said many early investors have supported Brompton since founder Andrew Ritchie created the first folding bicycle design in 1975. Some investors are now retiring or passing their investments to family members. Employees who received shares as part of bonus programs will also have an opportunity to receive financial returns. Butler-Adams said rewarding loyal staff is an important part of the company's long-term success. The chief executive joined Brompton in 2008 after deciding against pursuing an MBA. He has previously said he even mortgaged his home to help support the company during challenging financial periods. With new investment, expanding global partnerships, and improving market conditions, Brompton hopes to strengthen its position as one of the world's leading folding bicycle manufacturers.