Top shareholder Fosun 'disappointed' over Thomas Cook collapse

Shanghai. China's Fosun Group, which had led a last-ditch bid to rescue British travel firm Thomas Cook from bankruptcy, on Monday said it was "disappointed" that the effort had failed.

"Fosun is disappointed that Thomas Cook Group has not been able to find a viable solution for its proposed recapitalisation with other affiliates, core lending banks, senior noteholders and additional involved parties," Fosun said in a statement .

"Fosun confirms that its position remained unchanged throughout the process, but unfortunately other factors have changed."

"We extend our deepest sympathy to all those affected by this outcome."

Thomas Cook declared bankruptcy on Monday after the rescue effort fell through, triggering the UK's biggest repatriation since World War II to bring back stranded passengers.

Thomas Cook had announced last month that Fosun, which was already the biggest shareholder, would inject £450 million ($560 million) into the business.

In return, the Hong Kong-listed conglomerate was to acquire a 75-percent stake in Thomas Cook's tour operating division and 25 percent of its airline unit.

Creditors and banks were to inject another £450 million, converting their debt into a 75-percent stake in the airline and 25 percent of the tour operating unit.

Fosun said that it would "continue to increase investment and cooperation in the UK market", without providing specifics.

Prior to Thomas Cook's collapse, Fosun Group had a stake of around 18 percent of the company. It also owns French luxury holiday resort group Club Med, which it bought for more than $1 billion in 2015.

Fosun's Hong Kong-listed shares fell 1.53 percent to close at HK$10.30 ($1.30) on Monday.

Thomas Cook in May revealed that first-half losses widened on a major write-down, caused in part by Brexit uncertainty that delayed summer holiday bookings.