Chinese investment firm Fosun acquired a 5-percent stake in Thomas Cook, a global travel company, for 91.8 million pounds (about 139 million U.S. dollars) on Friday.

Fosun bought over 73 million shares in Thomas Cook Group and intends over time to purchase an additional stake in the British company on the open market with a view to increasing its shareholding in Thomas Cook up to approximately 10 percent, according to both companies' announcements.

"Our strategic partnership with Thomas Cook is another strong example of Fosun's status as a trusted and experienced partner for leading international tourism businesses. Thomas Cook's strong brand heritage and its leading position in the European travel market, together with Fosun's extensive expertise and resources, will capitalize on the increasing demand for international leisure travel," said Wang Qunbin, the executive director and president of Fosun.

Thomas Cook said the move could support its profitable growth strategy and would further improve its financial position.

"Building on our significant progress to date, we are delighted to announce our partnership with Fosun, which represents a major milestone in Thomas Cook's 174-year history designed to bring significant benefits to Thomas Cook and its shareholders. Fosun's strong track record of value creation and focus on international tourism makes it the ideal partner to strengthen our brands and products," said Frank Meysman, chairman of Thomas Cook.

Thomas Cook Group is one of the world's leading leisure travel groups with sales of 8.5 billion pounds in the year ending September 2014. Endit

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