Sports specialist, Decathlon, has launched a new subsidiary to invest in innovation.

The retailer, which has a branch in Cheltenham, has launched Decathlon Pulse as an independent entity, as reported by Retail Gazette.

Decathlon Pulse will invest in innovative people and businesses which share similar values and look for new ways to expand the brand's footprint.

Decathlon said Decathlon Pulse will have the means, capability and agility to drive additional long-term growth.

This will include creating new concepts with the potential to develop standalone new businesses, acquiring innovative sports brands and sporting goods distributors and investing in innovative companies.

Decathlon said it will invest in the businesses and build long-term relationships with them, but they will keep their autonomy to help 'create a better sports industry'.