The deal will see the companies work together to initially deliver their collective service offering throughout Africa before they expand the scope of their collaboration globally.

SPIE Oil & Gas Services is a technical services providers for the oil and gas industry; and is the general maintenance contractor for a number of offshore assets around the world.

Sparrows Group is a specialist in the area of cranes, lifting and mechanical handling, fluid power, and cable and pipe lay. The partnership will enable Sparrows Group to aid SPIE in delivering a comprehensive world-class service.

Stewart Mitchell, CEO at Sparrows Group, said: “The synergy between our companies, which are both committed to excellence, will allow us to deliver an unrivalled technical competence in Africa. SPIE have an extensive footprint across Africa, which will allow us to reach new customers who require the highest possible standards in crane operation and maintenance, lifting, mechanical handling, inspection, training, fluid power, and cable and pipe lay services.

Yves Compañy, managing director at SPIE Oil & Gas Services, said: “Our companies share the same performance, safety and responsibility values. Their expertise and delivery capabilities complement each other enabling us to propose unique packaged solutions to the oil and gas industry.”